Following the success of its first edition at the Palermo Racetrack, the floating lantern festival that drew thousands of people is returning to close out 2026. This time, the Water Lantern Festival is moving to the riverfront in San Isidro and promises to transform the night of Saturday, December 19, into the most beautiful night of the year.
Inspired by Asian traditions of gratitude and renewal, this festival of lights is much more than a visual spectacle. It’s a pause amid the end-of-year hustle and bustle, an invitation to connect with your emotions and share a moment of reflection where your wishes become light and float away on the water. Don’t miss out—reserve your spot!
Hipódromo de San Isidro
Why the Water Lantern Festival is important and what you’ll experience there
Starting at 4:00 p.m., the San Isidro Racetrack by the river comes alive with local food trucks, live music, and activities to enjoy with friends, family, or your partner. When you enter with your ticket, you’ll receive a kit containing a floating lantern (made entirely of biodegradable rice paper and wood). Throughout the afternoon, you’ll have time to personalize it by writing messages, drawing pictures, or making wishes.
As the sun sets, starting at 7:00 p.m., thousands of people—including you—will release their lanterns onto the water all at once. The result is a “sea of stars” twinkling on the water’s surface, creating an atmosphere of peace, hope, and deep connection.
To preserve the natural beauty of the coastline, the organizers enforce a “leave no trace” policy. At the end of the festival, a specialized team collects every single lantern and thoroughly cleans the water’s surface. Additionally, the interior lights are reusable LED candles that are recovered for future editions.
For this edition in San Isidro, the festival includes a mandala blanket for a picnic under the stars, as well as VIP tickets with access to an exclusive tent.
Water Lantern Festival – Buenos Aires – Waitlist
Hipódromo de San Isidro
