Pictures: Paignton Festival draws crowds as summer celebration returns for 2025

A long-standing tradition in Torbay has returned in style, as Paignton Festival got under way at the weekend with live music, family-friendly entertainment and a strong turnout on Paignton Green of revellers determined to have a good time.

Running from Friday, July 25, to Sunday, August 10, the popular summer event, which was once known as Torbay Carnival, has been entertaining residents and visitors to the resort alike with a packed programme of free events.

Although the festival was renamed in recent years after more than 75 years as Torbay Carnival, organisers say the ethos remains unchanged: to provide free entertainment and raise money for local charities and community organisations. 

The carnival procession, which takes place on Wednesday, July 30, continues to run under its original name as a nod to the festival’s heritage.

Originally held as a single-night celebration, the carnival has grown steadily over the decades into a nine-day event that attracts thousands of people to Paignton’s seafront.

This year’s festivities began with a musical tribute to pop icon Cher on Friday evening, followed on Saturday night by headline act and 1980s TV and radio personality Pat Sharp, who had the crowd dancing to some all-time monster hits including Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

Sunday saw the return of the English Riviera Classic Car Show, organised by Torbay Old Wheels Club and sponsored by Roundham Garage in partnership with Abbey Classics at Buckfast Abbey. 

Dozens of vintage vehicles were on display, drawing crowds of enthusiasts and curious onlookers to scrutinise some of the iconic models of yesteryear.

With live entertainment continuing throughout the week — including children’s activities, music acts and community stalls — organisers say there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Paignton Festival continues until  August 10. Festival fireworks are due to take place on Thursday, July 31.

Photography company Miracle PR will be photographing each performance and uploading all images to their website, where they will be available to view and purchase.

On Friday, August 8  Ultimate Madnezz are coming to Paignton to entertain and on Saturday, August 9, it's the US pop versus Brit pop event. On Sunday, August 10, enjoy Super Soul Sunday.