English Riviera's Bay of Lights: Celebrate the magic of Christmas

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The English Riviera is set to dazzle residents and visitors alike with the return of the highly anticipated Bay of Lights this Christmas, a series of sparkling events transforming the stunning coastline into a winter wonderland of festive cheer.

Taking place from 29 November to 02 January, this year’s events promise to be bigger and brighter than ever, with a spectacular array of lights, entertainment, and seasonal activities for everyone to enjoy.

A Coastal Wonderland Awaits

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The Bay of Lights festival is taking place on the English Riviera's iconic seafronts, stretching from Torquay to Paignton and Brixham. Each town is hosting its own collection of spectacular events that can be enjoyed by all. Event highlights include:

Bay of Lights at English RivieraBay of Lights at English Riviera
Bay of Lights at English Riviera

Train of Lights: This magical festive illuminated train journey starts at Dartmouth Steam Railway’s station in, Paignton, where a steam train with vintage carriages awaits, decorated with thousands of lights, both inside and out. Attendees will be propelled through the 450-metre Greenway tunnel that leads to an enchanted forest which will be transformed by a multitude of lights. The stunning show ends as passengers leave the forest only to be greeted by the twinkling lights of Dartmouth reflected on the river Dart.

Illumination Trail: An exciting light trail is set to illuminate Torquay this Christmas, as part of the Bay of Lights, organised by Torbay Council and supported by SWISCo and the English Riviera BID Company. Visit the 1.5mile long trail and see Holly the 7-foot light up Octopus, a giant sparkling snowflake, a pixel palm tree, a Christmas comet and the ‘Instagrammable’ Abbey Gardens light tunnel. New highlights for this year includes an LED light fountain, 3,000 colour changing hand placed flowers, pixel pads and a giant walkthrough Christmas present.

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Santa In the Caves: Experience an interactive pantomime performance throughout the prehistoric Kents Cavern caves which will be festively decorated, finishing in Santa’s Grotto where kids will be able to meet Santa himself.

A Very Miniature Christmas: Visit Babbacombe Model Village this Christmas and enjoy festive scenes during the day and night, plus magical illuminations with lots of Christmas sparkle and festive lighting for a magical miniature Christmas experience which will ignite imaginations.

Christmas at Greenway: Visit the relaxed and atmospheric National Trust house set in the 1950s, when Agatha and her family would spend summers and Christmases with friends, relaxing by the river, playing croquet and golf, and reading her latest mystery to their guests. Take part in the outdoor garden festive wreath trail, and guess the songs on each of the handmade wreaths.

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"We are thrilled to bring the Bay of Lights back to the English Riviera, offering a variety of festive celebrations that highlights the beauty and spirit of our coastal towns," said Carolyn Custerson, CEO of English Riviera BID Company. "This year’s event is set to be truly magical, and we invite everyone to join us in creating unforgettable festive filled memories."

The Bay of Lights Illumination trail is free to explore, with some Bay of Lights special attractions and events requiring tickets. For a full schedule of activities, event details, and ticket information, visit https://www.englishriviera.co.uk/whats-on/featured-events/bay-of-lights.