The English Riviera is getting ready to shine once again as the Bay of Lights returns from Friday 28 November 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026. After dazzling more than a million visitors last year, the popular festive event is back with bigger displays, new features, and plenty of Christmas cheer for all ages.
The Bay of Lights transforms the coastline into a magical world of illuminated trails, sparkling installations, and festive attractions. The event is funded by Torbay Council, working in partnership with SWISCo and the English Riviera BID Company, with support from a wide range of local businesses.
Celebrating Local Generosity
This year’s Bay of Lights is powered by the generosity of local sponsors who have helped fund everything from light installations to the brand-new ice rink.
A special spotlight goes to Willmott Dixon, headline sponsors for the ice rink, whose support has helped bring back a truly magical skating experience under a canopy of twinkling lights.
Torbay Council have thanked the installation sponsors: Pier Point, Otto, Twenty1, Offshore Bar and Restaurant, Hoopers, PKF Francis Clark, Hays Travel, ERBID, Torbay Business Forum, The Torquay Comedy Club, Cantina TQ, and Osborne Apartments.
Their contributions help ensure the Bay continues to shine brightly throughout the festive season.
What to Expect This Year
The hugely popular Illumination Trail returns, running from Torre Abbey to Torquay Harbour, complete with new light displays and a free, accessible sensory experience created by Future Technical Solutions.
The trail runs daily from 4:30pm, with sound features until 9:30pm and lights until 11pm. Paignton and Brixham will once again host their impressive 12-metre pixel-mapped Christmas trees, offering mesmerising digital light and sound shows.
Adding to the festive fun, Torre Abbey’s Christmas Market will be open from 28 November to 21 December, showcasing local makers, gifts, and delicious treats. Local community groups have decorated the market’s festive trees, and a special thanks goes to Marldon Christmas Tree Farm for donating a spectacular 15-foot Christmas tree.
One of last year’s most-loved features, “Alive with Light”, also makes a welcome return to Torre Abbey.
To find out more and follow the trail, visit: illuminationtrail.co.uk
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