Christmas countdown to Torbay’s spectacular Bay of Lights

The countdown has begun for the return of Torbay’s most popular and spectacular Christmas event. The annual Bay of Lights transforms the English Riviera into a glittering wonderland of light and sound.

This year’s festive celebration promises to be brighter, bolder, and more magical than ever before, says organisers. Dates and locations have been announced and sponsors thanks for their support.

Bay of Lights will run from Friday, November 28 to Friday, January 2. The highlight will be the ‘Illumination Trail’, which welcomed over one million visitors last year. The much-loved ‘Alive with Light’ feature also returns to the front of Torre Abbey. There’s is also new ice rink.

Torbay councillor Jackie Thomas, said: “Each year the Bay of Lights celebrations seem to get bigger and more magical, and that’s thanks to the incredible support from our partners, sponsors and supporters, including our fantastic local business community.

“Your generous support plays a vital part in lighting up the Bay and helping residents and visitors to create unforgettable festive memories – thank you.”

Support from sponsors has helped bring the Bay of Lights to life across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Torbay Council funds the event in partnership with SWISCo, and the English Riviera BID Company, and with the support of local businesses and organisations.

Willmott Dixon has helped to fund this year’s brand-new ice rink at Abbey Park, Torquay. It offers families and visitors the chance to skate under a sparkling canopy for the first time in years.

Carolyn Custerson, of English Riviera BID Company, said: “We are delighted to once again be working in partnership with Torbay Council for the Bay of Lights celebrations. Each year the events bring so much joy and festive magic to the English Riviera, its residents and visitors. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved who makes that possible.”

This year’s Illumination Trail has been created and produced by Future Technical Solutions. It runs between Torre Abbey and Torquay Harbour, with dazzling new installations and a free, accessible sensory experience running daily from 4:30pm between Friday 28 November and Friday 2 January (sound until 9:30pm, lights until 11pm). The trail also extends to Paignton and Brixham, where 12-metre-high, pixel-mappable Christmas trees will deliver stunning digital light and sound shows.

Torre Abbey’s Christmas Market will run from Friday, November 28 to Sunday, December 21, featuring local stalls and festive treats. Community groups have also joined the celebration, by decorating festive trees, adding a personal and heart-warming touch to the market. Marldon Christmas Tree Farm has donated a 15ft Christmas tree.

Chris Wheeler, Regional Head of Land and Development at Willmott Dixon, said: “Willmott Dixon is proud to be sponsoring the Bay of Lights this year. This event is more than festive fun, it’s a beacon for the community and a celebration of what makes Torbay really special. As regeneration partners alongside the Council, we’re committed to creating spaces and experiences that bring people together, and supporting the Bay of Lights is a perfect example of that.”

Other businesses sponsoring the events this year include: 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 Apartment.

The council would like to hear from anyone who wants to get involved.

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