The Bay of Lights is back to bring holiday cheer to the English Riviera.

After the incredible success of the inaugural event in 2022, the highly anticipated Illumination Trail will return this year as part of the Bay of Lights. Illuminating Torquay seafront with an impressive light display and 12 large light installations. The trail is back to showcase new and exciting light displays alongside some family favourites that will mesmerise residents and visitors.

This seasonal Bay wide programme of lights aims to become a family festive favourite, inviting residents and visitors to explore the region during Christmas and enjoy a variety of festive events and illuminated attractions. The Bay of Lights incorporates everything from the Illumination Trail at Torquay, Brixham Lanterns, Lights & 'Luminations, the Christmas Train of Lights in Paignton, and seasonal illuminated events at popular local destinations such as the Model Village, Paignton Zoo, Kents Cavern and more. Discover the Bay of Lights events across Torbay.

Taking place from Friday 1 December 2023 and running until Tuesday 2 January 2024, the Illumination Trail promises to ignite the night sky once again, transforming the English Riviera into a dazzling celebration of Christmas. The 1.5-mile trail will wind its way along Torquay's iconic waterfront, starting from Abbey Park, through the Tunnel of Lights, up and over the curly bridge and across the seafront promenade before ending at the harbourside. However, you can follow the route in either direction. The trail in Torquay runs daily from 4:30pm, with sound elements until 9:30pm and lighting displays until 11pm.

The Bay of Lights continues to grow and this year it will be reaching out further to include Paignton seafront and Brixham harbour. These locations will feature magnificent 12-meter-high pixel Christmas Trees that offer stunning digital sound and light shows. The pixel trees will also operate daily from Friday 1 December 2023 to Tuesday 2 January 2024, with sound elements until 9:30pm and lighting displays until 11pm.

Cllr Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place, Culture & Events and Parking for Torbay Council, said; “The first Bay of Lights Illumination Trail captivated audiences of all ages, so we’re delighted to again provide this sensory extravaganza.

“The Illumination Trail and the Pixel Christmas trees are free and accessible to all. So, mark your calendars, tell your friends and family, and join us for an unforgettable experience filled with glittering Christmas magic.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company said: “With the English Riviera’s micro-climate, we are very lucky to be in a great position to stage exciting new winter events, like the Bay of Lights, which will attract thousands of visitors, many staying overnight for winter mini breaks as there is so much to do.”

Together with the English Riveira BID Company, we aspire to ensure the Bay of Lights offer grows annually across Torbay in all towns. Any business or organisation that is interested in joining, supporting, or sponsoring future Bay of Lights trails or initiatives are encouraged to contact events@torbay.gov.uk

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