Torbay Council and the English Riviera BID Company are thrilled to announce the return of the Bay of Lights event for 2025. 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.
Cllr Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council said; “We are thrilled to announce that the Bay of Lights is back for a fourth consecutive year. The feedback we’ve received has shown us that last year’s event was the biggest and best yet, and we are eager to top that once again in 2025.
“It was fantastic to see Torbay come alive over Christmas with excitement and illuminations. Bay of Lights showcases everything the English Riviera has to offer and the hard work we are putting in to continually enhance Torbay.”
Carolyn Custerson, CEO of English Riviera BID Company, said: “We are delighted to announce the official dates for Bay of Lights 2025. Last year’s event was a phenomenal success, with record-breaking visitor numbers and incredible community engagement.
“Bay of Lights is quickly becoming a national ‘must-see’ event, and we are excited to welcome visitors back for what promises to be our most spectacular celebration yet. Escape your everyday and experience Christmas like never before on the English Riviera.”
The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is free, but some special attractions need tickets. For a full schedule of activities, event details, and ticket information, visit https://www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on/featured-events/bay-of-lights .
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