Torquay is set to sparkle as the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail officially switches on Friday 28 November, marking the start of five weeks of festive magic across the English Riviera. 

Residents and visitors of all ages are invited to join the Opening Night Spectacular, which promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment: 

• Live performances on Torquay’s Harbourside from 5:30pm. 

• Illumination Trail switch-on at 7:15pm. 

• A dazzling firework display launched at 8pm from Haldon Pier, best viewed from the Banjo and Promenade areas. 

Around the Banjo in Princess Gardens, visitors can enjoy additional free live entertainment and a pop-up bar, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all ages. 

This spectacular opening night has been made possible thanks to a partnership between Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, and the Torquay Harbourside Independent Business Owners (TIBO) group.  

The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail stretches 1.5 miles along Torquay’s harbourside and seafront, showcasing 17 dazzling light installations. A festive highlight awaits at Torre Abbey, where the historic mansion will be transformed with a spectacular projected animation. The Christmas Market opens at 3pm the same day, featuring local stalls with seasonal treats, unique gifts, and locally brewed beers in the pop-up bar.  

This year marks the fourth edition of the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, an event that continues to grow in both size and popularity. In 2024, more than one million visitors experienced the trail, firmly establishing the English Riviera as a must-visit destination for festive celebrations. 

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Events, Tourism, Culture and Corporate Services for Torbay Council, said; “In partnership with the English Riviera Bid Company and local businesses we are thrilled to be able to bring you a fantastic opening night for the 2025 Bay of Lights Illumination Trail. Please join us on Friday 28 November for a free evening of family friendly entertainment ending with a colourful firework display.” 

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company Ltd, said; “This opening night is an exciting new addition to the Bay of Lights. We’re pleased to have been able to co-sponsor this new event alongside local businesses and Torbay Council. We hope to see lots of people around the harbourside, taking in the light trial and enjoying the best of the English Riviera’s hospitality.”  

Order of the evening 

5.30pm Razzamatazz Theatre School 

6.30pm Harbour (local band) 

7.15pm Light switch on by the Civic Mayor, Cllr Barbara Lewis 

8.00pm Firework display  

Parking offers  

• Pay for an Hour Stay for the Day (in selected Torbay Council car parks, terms and conditions apply). Find more information on our website. 

• Fleet Walk car park, park for 4 hours for £2.00.  

About the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail  

Explore Torquay’s harbourside and seafront on a 1.5-mile accessible trail featuring 17 stunning light installations. For even more sparkle, take a detour along Fleet Street and Union Street to enjoy the dazzling displays while adding a few extra steps to your walk. Plan your Bay of Lights Illumination Trail walk.

An image of a firework in the night sky.