The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is back for a third consecutive year with 18 large light installations and a Christmas market, making this year's event even more impressive. 

The enchanting light trail which is loved by all ages is set to illuminate Torquay's seafront, Torre Abbey and harbourside from Friday 29 November 2024 until Thursday 2 January 2025.

After the incredible success of last year's event which was generously supported by local businesses, the Illumination Trail forms just one element of the Bay of Lights initiative.

The Bay of Lights initiative invites residents and visitors to explore the English Riviera during the festive season by enjoying a variety of events and illuminated attractions. The Bay of Lights incorporates everything from the Illumination Trail in Torquay to Brixham Lanterns, Lights & 'Luminations, the Christmas Train of Lights in Paignton, and seasonal illuminated events at popular local attractions such as the Model Village, Greenway National Trust, Kents Cavern and more. Discover the Bay of Lights events across Torbay.

This year's Bay of Lights Illumination Trail has more installations than ever before. New for 2024 include an LED light fountain, 1,000 colour changing hand placed flowers, pixel pads and a giant walk-through Christmas present, as well as some of the original favourites. The 1.5-mile accessible trail will have 18 large light installations, offering stunning digital light shows, Christmas music, interactive fun and memory making photographic opportunities. There will also be installations in Paignton and Brixham.

A fantastic opening night event is being planned for Friday 29 November in the new public realm space on Torquay's harbourside. Live, music and entertainment can be expected, with more details available soon.

Torre Abbey is set to be full of Christmas cheer as it embraces the Bay of Lights initiative with a superb 3D projection mapping video on the front of Torre Abbey telling the story of 800 years of Christmas at the Abbey and surrounding area with an exciting light and sound show to accompany its festive programme.

Plus, new for 2024 is the addition of a Christmas Market in the grounds of Torre Abbey. The market is being delivered in partnership with us, Torre Abbey and the Exeter Bar Co.

Exeter Bar Co have experience in Christmas markets as they have run the Bar at the Cathedral Christmas Market as well as summertime festival Exeter Fest and Manor Fest. The market will form the perfect space for visitors to do some Christmas shopping or to start or end the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail with plenty of food traders serving delicious food. There will be two large, covered areas where you can grab a mulled beverage or local beer while tucking into your food or just enjoy the illuminations as well as plenty of space for the family to enjoy.

In Torquay's town centre, festive lighting will be put up through Union Street and Fleet Street, courtesy of the Torquay Town Centre Partnership.

In Paignton along the seafront and at Brixham harbour, residents and visitors will get to enjoy a magnificent 8-meter-high pixel Christmas Tree, that offer digital light shows.

Cllr Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council said; “We are delighted to announce that the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is back for a third consecutive year. Each year we are developing and growing the trail so that it keeps enchanting people of all ages.

“Feedback from the community told us that a Christmas Market would be a great addition to the Bay of Lights initiative. We’ve worked to make that possible this year and we hope people enjoy it and fully immerse themselves in the Bay wide programme of Christmas festivities.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company Ltd, said; “During the Christmas period, the English Riviera plays host to The Bay of Lights. The whole area comes alive with illuminated events, creating a truly magical feel. With a mix of free and paid for attractions there is something for everyone to enjoy, and where better to experience Christmas than by the sea.

“This Christmas each of our towns has something different to offer, history, culture, food, drink and coastal walks, there are moments of magic everywhere. We look forward to welcoming you to the English Riviera this winter.”

The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is made possible by us, The English Riviera Bid Company, SWISCo and the creator of the light displays local company Future Technical Solutions (FTS) alongside the generous support of local sponsors. Their contributions ensure that the Bay of Lights remains a free event for all to enjoy.

The Torre Abbey Christmas Market is currently accepting traders with a special focus on local brands. The response has been incredible, and applications are still open until mid-October. Exeter Bar co aims to bring as many local makers as possible to this event with affordable trading options as well a mix of familiar Devon based Christmas traders to bring some an extra sprinkle of cheer.  Please email bookings@exeterbarco.co.uk for more info.

Get Involved

We and the ERBID Co invites local businesses and organisations to be part of this festive tradition, with sponsorship opportunities available for the 2024 trail. By supporting the Bay of Lights, you contribute to creating a memorable experience for our community and visitors. Find out more about our branding packages and how you can make a difference. Please email julie.kniveton@torbay.gov.uk