Thousands of residents and visitors gathered in Torbay over the weekend to enjoy the 10th anniversary of the English Riviera Airshow, marking a decade of one of the Bay’s most popular free events.

Event organisers estimate that nearly 200,000 people attended the Airshow in Paignton over the three days (Friday 29, Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May). The landmark event once again transformed Paignton seafront into a vibrant and bustling destination, with spectacular flying displays, live entertainment and a diverse programme of attractions drawing large crowds every day.

The English Riviera Airshow is a collaborative effort supported by us, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and organisations, and aviation enthusiasts.

Organisers delivered a memorable programme featuring a variety of renowned display teams and aircraft. Visitors were treated to a packed schedule of aerial performances alongside a lively event village offering entertainment, food, and activities for all ages.

The event benefited from fantastic weather conditions, with warm temperatures, clear blue skies and sunshine on Friday and Saturday, followed by dry conditions on Sunday. This provided an ideal setting for the aerial displays, including crowd favourites such as the RAF Red Arrows, who performed on both Friday and Saturday.

With thousands of people visiting Torbay over the three days, the English Riviera Airshow once again delivered a welcome boost to local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, cafes and traders across the Bay benefited from increased footfall, reinforcing the event’s value to the local economy. Previous research has shown that for every £1 spent on the Airshow, a further £15.56 is generated for the local economy.

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events, and Corporate Services, said: “It has been fantastic to see such a positive response from the people who attended this year’s English Riviera Airshow. It was wonderful to see so many people coming together to enjoy everything the weekend had to offer, and the atmosphere was brilliant across the three days.

“I would like to say a special thank you to our sponsors, partners and the many volunteers who help make the Airshow possible. Their commitment and support are vital to the event's success,

and we could not do it without them. The hard work will soon begin again as we start planning for the 2027 English Riviera Airshow.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company said: “What a weekend! Thanks to everyone involved in delivering another fantastic English Riviera Airshow, bringing thousands of visitors to the Bay during this special 10th anniversary event.”

Following a spectacular English Riviera Airshow, attention now turns to the ICF SUP World Cup and SUPER Festival which takes place from 24 to 28 June 2026.

Volunteers are wanted to join the crew behind this world-class event, with opportunities to be part of an international competition, gain hands-on event experience, and help create an unforgettable atmosphere along the bay's coast. Further information on how to enter, spectate, volunteer or partner is available at: www.superfestival.paddleuk.org.uk

Other highlights in Torbay over the coming months include:

Art on the Doorstep – 6 March to 5 September

English Riviera Walking Festival – 6 to 21 June

Torbay Pride – 13 June

ICF SUP World Cup and Paddle UK SUPER Festival 2026 – 24 to 28 June

International Agatha Christie Festival – 12 to 20 September

England's Seafood Feast - 21 September to 4 October

Bay of Lights - end of November to beginning of January A full list of events taking place across Torbay can be found on our website.