Major Events across the English Riviera

As you’d expect from an international tourist destination in South Devon, there’s an amazing calendar of exciting annual events to suit every passion and taste. Across the three towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham there’s always something happening, so it’s well worth planning your holiday to coincide with these top events. Just make sure you get in early with those accommodation bookings!

SUMMER FESTIVALS

The English Riviera Airshow is a high-flying highlight at the start of June, featuring breathtaking aerial displays over the stunning natural amphitheatre of South Devon’s beautiful bay. The weekend event is centred on Paignton Green, with lots of free entertainment for all the family. Of course, it’s up in the air where the real action takes place, featuring the very best in military and civilian aircraft. Don’t miss it! Get booking your accommodation now to find the perfect place to stay.

The annual Paignton Festival in July offers nine days of amazing free entertainment for children and families (to be confirmed). Highlights include the Riviera Classic Car Show and Anderton and Rowland Funfair. There's also lots of fun and games and workshops for all the family, as well as stalls, food outlets and more seaside fun than you can shake a stick of rock at. 

The UK’s longest running children’s festival comes to Paignton Green in August. Torbay Children’s Week has a packed programme of fun events, workshops and lively performances to keep the young ones amused.  Paignton Regatta wows visitors and locals alike with a great evening of live entertainment on the stage.  The majority of events are free or have a small charge. 

ENJOY A TRADITIONAL WEEKEND AT TORBAY STEAM FAIR

Torbay Steam Fair is a quintessentially English affair with traditional summertime fun for all ages and interests. It's one of the biggest outdoor events of the year, taking place over 3 days in July and August with wonderful working steam engines, vintage and classic car demonstrations and military displays. Enjoy the refreshing beer and tea tents and the fascinating craft and model tents, packed with memorabilia. Situated on the outskirts of Brixham, there’s ample parking and good access via public transport.

TAKE TO THE WATER WITH TORBAY ROYAL REGATTA

The English Riviera’s sheltered bay is the perfect playground for water-based events and races. Torbay Royal Regatta takes place in August and is organised by Royal Torbay Yacht Club on Torquay harbourside. The festival consists of three days of competitive racing with over 100 yachts and dinghies. Visitors, locals and sailing spectators can watch the top-class racing from many vantage points along the stunning coastline as well as the spectacular fireworks display.

CELEBRATE TORQUAY'S MOST FAMOUS RESIDENT AT THE INTERNATIONAL AGATHA CHRISTIE FESTIVAL

Each year to coincide with the famous author’s birthday (15 September) the area hosts the International Agatha Christie Festival, attracting visitors from all over the world. Fans of the ‘Queen of Crime’ and Torquay’s most famous resident, can expect a varied and exciting programme including theatre productions, film screenings and literary events. 

TAKE A HIKE AT THE ENGLISH RIVIERA WALKING FESTIVAL

Pack your rucksacks, fill your flasks, dig out your walking boots and join us at the English Riviera Walking Festival.  Whether you’re a regular hiker, or an infrequent stroller, this family and dog friendly festival will appeal to walkers of all abilities who enjoy exploring the Great Outdoors.

ENJOY WORLD-CLASS SEAFOOD AT ENGLAND'S SEAFOOD FEAST

The English Riviera is also known as England’s Seafood Coast for the exceptional quality of the seafood landed locally in Brixham. England’s Seafood FEAST takes place over two weeks in September and October with a culinary feast to tantalise your taste buds. Various locations in Torquay, Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham serve up a range of delicious, gourmet dishes as well as unique seafood-themed events such as cookery demonstrations, coastal foraging trips and early-morning tours of Brixham Fish Market. So good - you’ll be hooked!  

FEEL FESTIVE ON THE ENGLISH RIVIERA

The English Riviera’s mild climate is perfect for a break any time of year, including during the Christmas and New Year season. Brixham hosts Lights, Lanterns & ‘luminations in November when the town’s Christmas lights are switched on. Events and festivities take place around The Quay and there’s a lantern parade, plenty of harbourside entertainment and food outlets celebrating yuletide delights.  

Father Christmas arrives at his grotto at Fleet Walk shopping centre to meet well-behaved children and grown-ups! The Christmas light switch on is a popular family-friendly winterfest.