During the winter Christmas period, the English Riviera plays host to an exciting event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place between 28th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027 throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay comes alive with a flurry of illuminated events to form the Bay of Lights. From lantern parades to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera is truly magical over winter. And don't forget the star of the show: The Illumination Trail along Torquay seafront. You can enjoy a 1.5-mile route along Torquay seafront with glittering and unexpected surprises along the way.
What is the Bay of Lights?
The Bay of Lights is a fantastic winter event that lights up the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham across December each year. Many attractions and towns take part in 'lighting up the Bay' to create a winter wonderland on the English Riviera.
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.
FREE EVENT - This year's Bay of Lights Illumination Trail has more installations than ever before and included an LED light fountain, 1,000 colour changing hand placed flowers, pixel pads and a giant walk-through Christmas present, as well as some of the original favourites. The 1.5-mile accessible trail will have 18 large light installations, offering stunning digital light shows, Christmas music, interactive fun and memory making photographic opportunities. There will also be pixel tree installations in Paignton and Brixham.
This year’s biggest attraction is sure to excite. The English Riviera will welcome a real ice rink, bringing a dazzling new dimension to the Bay of Lights festivities! Nestled in the heart of Abbey Park, this sparkling rink invites residents and visitors of all ages to glide across the ice in a truly magical setting. It will open daily offering hourly sessions for up to 80 skaters, all under a beautifully lit canopy to ensure the fun continues regardless of the weather. So, whether you're a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, this enchanting experience promises festive fun and laughter.
FREE EVENT - This year, the wonderful Torquay Christmas Market returns to the grounds of the historic Torre Abbey. The market creates the perfect space for visitors to do some Christmas shopping or to start or end The Illumination Trail with plenty of food traders serving delicious food. Expect great local food traders, fun family activities and atmospheric bars offering the best of the South West.
Winterfest - Saturday 6th December 2026 - Families can also enjoy a packed programme of entertainment at the local Spanish Barn, including a WinterFest artisan market alongside seasonal theatre performances, making the family weekend getaway even more jam-packed with festive entertainment.
FREE EVENT - Torre Abbey will once again host the special show "Alive with Light." Through an innovative projection on the building, 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.
The projection will take attendees on a visual journey through Torre Abbey's storied past, from its establishment by the Premonstratensians in the 12th century to the present day. Spectators will witness the evolution of Christmas celebrations across the ages, accompanied by a carefully curated soundtrack featuring music from the Medieval, Tudor, Georgian, and Victorian periods. Beautifully mapping images inspired by the different eras will be projected onto the abbey's historic architecture.
This event promises to engage audiences of all ages, offering a unique opportunity to experience the holiday season in a captivating and immersive way.
TICKET CHARGE APPLIES - 27th November to 30th December 2026 - an event that can't be missed on the Bay is the Train of Lights! The vintage Steam Train carriages await you - decorated with thousands of lights, both inside and out! Once you're on board, the journey begins as the steam whistle blows and you are surrounded by thousands of twinkly lights.
You'll continue on through the Greenway tunnel and onto the enchanted forest, filled with magical illuminated beasts. The stunning show ends as you leave the forest only to be greeted by the twinkling lights of Dartmouth reflected on the river Dart. This multi-award-winning event sells out each year, so we advise getting your tickets early for a train journey you'll remember forever.
FREE EVENT - 20th-21st November 2026 - Every year, Brixham comes alight with Lanterns, Lights and 'Lluminations! Lanterns, Lights & ‘Luminations was first launched in 2007 and has grown in popularity in recent years. The event includes a magical lantern parade, an incredible firework display held in the Harbour Bowl, live music, street entertainment, and a street market. It has a real community feel, with many locals venturing out to take part in the magical festivities. It's definitely not one to miss, and is sure to get you feeling festive as the picturesque fishing town lights up with twinkly Christmas lights.
ADMISSION FEE APPLIES - For a true family-friendly illuminated event where you can also meet Santa, visit Kents Cavern. The popular “Santa in the Caves” returns with a new story and even more illuminations. An interactive pantomime guided by festive-themed actors, you’ll go on a quest through the caves and meet the man himself. At the beginning of the journey, the children will be given a light wand which magically switches on Christmas lights throughout the grotto. The adventure finishes with meeting Santa where each child will receive a wrapped gift, and adults can enjoy mulled wine and festive treats.
Also at Kents Cavern is the wonderful Carols in the Caves! Experience the magic of live music like never before with Carols in the Cave - an atmospheric evening of festive cheer, mulled wine, and Christmas melodies deep beneath the surface of Kents Cavern.
ADMISSION FEE APPLIES - 22nd November 2026 to 3rd January 2027 - to The Babbacombe Model Village Christmas Illuminations is the perfect family day out this winter. Enjoy some delightful miniature seasonal scenes as the little folk celebrate Christmas. A Christmas character spotter sheet will add some extra fun during daylight.
Santa's Grotto at Paignton Zoo - dates to be confirmed
Visitors to Paignton Zoo can experience the magic of Santa’s Grotto, where festive fun meets the wonder of the natural world. Families will have the chance to meet Santa in his enchanting grotto, accompanied by some very special animal helpers inspired by the zoo’s incredible wildlife.
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