Momentum is building for Bay of Lights 2026 as a record number of businesses from across Torbay, Devon and beyond come together to support what promises to be the biggest and brightest celebration yet.

From national brands to independent traders and local businesses, support for this year's event has reached new levels, demonstrating how Bay of Lights has grown into a true community initiative.

Businesses of all sizes are playing a vital role in bringing this year's event to life. Willmott Dixon, alongside Radio Exe Devon and Nation Radio Westcountry, is sponsoring the hugely popular Bay of Lights ice rink which will return to Abbey Park in Torquay with a fantastic undercover rink made of real ice.  

Meanwhile, Costa Coffee Torquay is sponsoring the official opening night on 28 November, helping to kick-start the festive season with a dazzling fireworks display and live music.

Businesses are also helping to bring some of the event's most spectacular illuminated features to life. PKF Francis Clark is sponsoring the Pixel Tree, while Offshore Bar & Restaurant is sponsoring the Light Pads installation at the Banjo.

Local car dealership Chery is supporting the event by powering one of the light installations using an electric vehicle, demonstrating how businesses are finding creative ways to become part of the Bay of Lights experience.

Dainton Portable Buildings has also provided valuable in-kind support, supplying secure storage and workspace facilities that are helping the team deliver the popular Alive with Light projections.

Local businesses are also getting involved by advertising around the ice rink, dressing shopfronts and premises with festive displays, and taking part in the popular Winter Fest Christmas Market at Torre Abbey.

Delivered in partnership with us and the English Riviera BID Company, Bay of Lights is now in its fifth year and has become one of the South West's most popular free festive attractions.

Businesses still have time to be part of Bay of Lights

As the countdown to opening night continues, businesses still have time to get involved.

Traders can still apply to take part in the Christmas Market at Torre Abbey which runs from 28 November to 20 December.

Prices include:

§  Outdoor pitches: £300 + VAT per week (includes gazebo)

§  Indoor pitches: £200 + VAT per week (includes trestle table)

§  Hot food traders: £3,000 + VAT for the full market period (includes power)

There are also more opportunities for sponsorship, promotional partnerships, themed displays, installations and participation in event activities, providing businesses with the chance to reach thousands of visitors. For businesses looking to promote their brand, advertising opportunities are available from as little as £200, providing a cost-effective way to reach thousands of residents and visitors throughout the festive season.

To find out more about any of these opportunities, contact bayoflights@torbay.gov.uk

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services, said: "It's incredible to see so many businesses getting behind Bay of Lights this year. The level of support has grown enormously and shows just how important this event has become for Torbay. I'd like to thank all our sponsors, partners and local businesses whose support is helping make this year's event bigger and better than ever. Everyone involved is playing a part in creating an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors. There are still opportunities to get involved, and I'd encourage any business interested in being part of this fantastic event to get in touch."

With a glittering 1.5-mile Illumination Trail featuring 19 major illuminated features and 11 additional displays, alongside a real ice rink, Christmas Market and a packed programme of events across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, Bay of Lights 2026 is set to be the biggest celebration yet.

To find out more about Bay of Lights visit www.illuminationtrail.co.uk