What's On in Torbay

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Bonfire & Fireworks events

Don't miss out this Autumn - check out our list of the best bonfire and firework events that Devon has to offer
English Riviera Film Festival

The world comes to Torbay for the 4th English Riviera Film Festival The English Riviera’s very own film festival is back - and attracting the international attention of producers and directors from around the world. The introduction of the English Riviera Film Awards have brought a new dimension to the festival, with last year’s event seeing winners from Canada and Japan and representatives from Italy attending the awards ceremony.
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Major Events

As you’d expect from an international tourism destination like Torbay, there’s an amazing calendar of exciting annual events to suit every passion and taste.
Devon Train of Lights

For the very first time in the UK, and possibly the world, you are invited to take a trip on our brand new, magical Christmas Train of Lights! This truly spectacular illuminated journey starts at Queen's Park Station, Paignton, where our train with vintage carriages await you - decorated with thousands of lights. Fifteen minutes later, once you've had time to settle back into your seat, you will arrive at Churston Station where the dazzling show begins. As the anticipation builds and mere moments after leaving Churston, you will be propelled through the 450-metre technicolour Greenway tunnel that leads you onto the enchanted forest which is transformed by a multitude of lights and feature displays into a nocturnal extravaganza.
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Monthly Calendar
Christmas on the English Riviera

Celebrate Christmas in style this and visit Torquay, Paignton or Brixham. Christmas in Devon has everything to offer from rural retreats to harbour lights and magical steam trains!

Highlights

If you are looking for what's on in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham look no further. Whatever time of year you visit the English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay, you’ll find lots going on. Whether you want to join the UK’s biggest gathering of pirates or you’re a super-sleuth fan in search of literary inspiration at the Agatha Christie Literary Festival, there’s something for everyone. With thousands of events taking place across Torbay, Devon, it’s hard to pick just a few. The coming year promises to be huge, with lots of annual favourites being joined by brilliant new things to do. Here’s a small slice of the action, but be sure to search through our what’s on pages to discover so much more.

What’s on in Torquay

If you want to know what’s on in Torquay, the answer is - a lot! Torquay is the heart of the English Riviera and plays host to a huge range of festivals for everyone all year round. There are many maritime events to watch, from the thrilling offshore powerboat racing to elegant sailing regattas. In addition to boats of all shapes and sizes, each event brings with it its own celebrations. That means you’ll find live music, markets, and fireworks ensuring a buzzing atmosphere in the town.

Family events

Brixham holds an annual event unlike any other. For two days in May, you can splice your mainbrace at the annual Brixham Pirate Festival. With events such as the ‘Mile o’ Pirates’ record attempt, re-enactments on the Golden Hind and fancy dress competitions, this really is perfect for families.

A newer fixture on the annual calendar, the Torbay Air Show has quickly grown to be a major one. A free event that takes place in June, the air displays can be enjoyed across the bay, or join the throngs at Paignton Green by the seafront for stalls, food, drink, live music and other entertainment too. Past flying displays that have wowed the crowds include the RAF Eurofighter Typhoon (this can be heard many miles away!), Battle of Britain vintage planes, parachute display teams, and of course the wonderful Red Arrows, flying the colours with a stunning show over the water.

Food festivals

With an abundance of delicious, fresh seafood landing in Brixham everyday, it’s little surprise that the English Riviera has become a hotspot for foodies. And there are plenty of events to celebrate our wonderful local produce.

FishStock takes over the streets of Brixham with an annual celebration of all things to do with the sea. Watch top local chefs, such as Simon Hulstone and Mitch Tonks, demonstrating their talents in the cookery demonstration area, take a tour of a fishing boat, or find out about the traditional methods of making lobster pots. Live music ensures a real party atmosphere, which combined with the delicious seafood draws crowds from near and far.

What’s on in Torbay all year round

Things don’t calm down in the autumn and winter. Many attractions open their doors after dark on Halloween, such as Paignton Zoo with its Ghoulish Ghost Trail. Stout-hearted visitors will be able to spot bats and listen to the music made by the creatures of the night. For a more festive adventure, visit the Model Village’s Winter Wonderland in Babbacombe and the Torquay Christmas Sparkle.

New and exciting events crop up every year, but there are plenty of annual favourites that will keep you coming back. Look through our what’s on pages to plan your trip.