Bay of Lights 2025: Everything you need to know about the English Riviera’s Christmas celebration

The English Riviera is preparing to sparkle this winter as the Bay of Lights returns, promising a dazzling display of festive lights, installations and seasonal attractions across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

Running from 28 November 2025 to 2 January 2026, the event will once again transform South Devon’s coastline into a glowing seaside spectacle.

Organised by the English Riviera BID Company in partnership with Torbay Council, the celebration has grown rapidly in popularity, recording a 37 per cent rise in footfall at last year’s event.

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Illuminated trail along the seafront

The centrepiece of the Bay of Lights is the Illumination Trail, a free 1.5-mile walking route stretching from Torre Abbey to Torquay Harbour.

Eighteen large-scale light installations will line the seafront, alongside interactive digital features and festive soundscapes. The lights will switch on each evening from 4.30pm, with sound elements until 9.30pm and illuminations continuing until 11pm.

Organisers say the trail is fully accessible and suitable for all ages, offering one of the most striking coastal light experiences in the South West.

Ice rink returns to Torquay

A new addition for 2025 will see Abbey Park host a real ice rink, marking the first open-air rink in the area for several years.

The 39-metre rink opens on 6 December til January 2, accommodating up to 80 skaters per session. Special parent-and-toddler sessions will be held on Fridays, and tickets are expected to sell quickly once released.

Markets, parades and family events

Festivities extend beyond Torquay, with a Christmas market at Torre Abbey from 28 November to 21 December, featuring local crafts, food and handmade gifts.

In Brixham, the popular Lanterns, Lights and Luminations event returns on 21 and 22 November, with lantern parades, live music, street markets and a firework finale. Both Paignton and Brixham will also feature 8-metre “pixel” Christmas trees as part of the wider Bay of Lights programme.

Trains and miniature illuminations

For something different, visitors can board the Christmas Train of Lights, a steam journey between Paignton and Kingswear with the route and carriages illuminated in vibrant colours.

The Babbacombe Model Village will also join in the celebrations, running its miniature illumination displays from 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.

‘A magical feel’ for the Riviera

Carolyn Custerson, chief executive of the English Riviera BID Company, said the event had become a “must-see” for visitors to the region.

“The English Riviera has a truly magical feel during the Bay of Lights,” she said. “It’s the perfect place to escape the everyday and experience Christmas like never before.”

Free to explore

The main Illumination Trail is free of charge, though attractions such as the ice rink and Train of Lights require paid tickets.

Organisers recommend checking local parking and travel arrangements and advise visitors to wrap up warm when exploring the seafront.

Now in its fourth year, the Bay of Lights continues to grow as one of Devon’s leading festive events, bringing together lights, community spirit and a touch of seaside magic for the holiday season.