Bay of Lights

This year, the English Riviera will play host to an exciting event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of illuminated events.

From lantern parades, to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera will have a truly magical feel this winter, so it’s worth indulging in a few nights away from home to take it all in.

The Illumination Trail has been made possible after the council successfully secured funding through its Towns Deal Funding bid, with additional support provided by SWISCo and the English Riviera BID Company. Created by local company Future Technical Solutions (FTS) using low-energy LED bulbs, the trail will allow people to stop and enjoy impressive light and sound displays.

Following the remarkable success of last year's event, which welcomed over a million visitors, the Bay of Lights will take place from 28 November to 2 January.

This year’s Bay of Lights promises to be even bigger and brighter, featuring new attractions and stunning light displays. The event will illuminate the beautiful seafronts of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Visitors can enjoy lantern parades, a steam train covered in lights, illuminated trails, carols by candlelight, and Christmas craft fairs. The Bay of Lights is a must-see experience, bringing the whole area to life with a flurry of illuminated events.

Last year's Bay of Lights attracted 1.2 million visitors, a 37% increase in footfall, solidifying its status as a must-visit Christmas spectacle. Feedback from attendees and local businesses was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the event's positive impact on the community and local economy.

A standout feature is the 1.5-mile Illumination Trail in Torquay, funded by Torbay Council, SWISCo, and the English Riviera BID Company. The 2024 trail was also supported by generous organisations and businesses, including Big Wave Marketing, Torre Abbey, Exeter Bar Company, and FTS. Visitors were captivated by the illuminated features along the route, such as a large light-up octopus and a giant glowing snowflake.

Additionally, Torre Abbey will once again host the special show "Alive with Light." The abbey will be transformed into a breathtaking blend of light, history, and festive joy. Audiences will embark on a magical journey through the abbey's rich history, from its 12th-century origins to today. "Alive with Light" is a stunning visual spectacle with an evocative historical soundtrack that should not be missed.