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Get in the festive spirit with Christmas events and markets happening across the English Riviera this year. The towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham literally light up with Christmas festivities from November to January every year with a host of events, parties, Christmas experiences and more – perfect to get you ready for the festive season. Make sure you experience the Bay of Lights – a host of illumination events across the bay where the towns come alive with Christmas lights. Meanwhile Santa is kept very busy at a variety of unique grottos across the Bay.
Christmas Events in Paignton
The famous Train of Lights is a spectacle to behold – this event sells out fast, but don’t worry – you can watch the Train go past at Goodrington Sands which is equally spectacular. A visit to the panto at Paignton Theatre is also a must, as well as the infamous Boxing Day Sea dip. Paignton Zoo are hosting their Santa’s Grotto – book early for this unique experience.
Christmas Events in Torquay
Torquay lights up at Christmas with the Illumination Trail across Torquay seaftont, including a musical 12ft Christmas tree! This free event is a great opportunity to take a festive walk and experience Torquay in a whole new light. Torquays attractions also put on some special Christmas family events including a Miniature Christmas at Babbacombe Model Village, Santa in the Caves and even Carols in the Caves at Kents Cavern. And of course the brilliant Jack and the Beanstalk at the Princess Theatre.
Christmas Events in Brixham
Over in Brixham, there's the wonderful Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations, a wonderful festival and market celebrating the annual Christmas light switch on in the traditional fishing village. The 2 National Trust houses of Greenway and Coleton Fishacre also put on stunning Christmas days that are truly magical. For something a little different – why not try the Seaside Santa run?
Staying for Christmas on the English Riviera
If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Devon, you’re in for a treat. You’ll experience winter woodlands and 22 miles of stunning coastline, forming part of the South West Coast Path, for brisk and refreshing walks. You’ll find breath-taking scenery, a wealth of award-winning country pubs and fine dining restaurants, excellent high street shopping and independent traders selling splendid locally produced goods. Top quality accommodation and attractions pull out all the stops and add those little extra touches to make your Christmas in Devon extra special. Families, groups, couples and dog lovers are all catered for here.
New Year's Eve on the English Riviera
Come and celebrate the New Year in style with friends and family. New Year’s Eve on the English Riviera will be one to remember, bring in the new year right on the coast at one of our restaurants, bars or hotels. Known for its stunning location and charming nightlife - is there a better combination that New Year’s Eve on The English Riviera!?
There is something suave and sophisticated about dressing up and treating yourself to a stunning dining experience at New Year. Get dressed up, enjoy some amazing food and have a dance until the clocks strike (and beyond!). There will be plenty of venues who offer such a place. Please do keep checking our website for updates on New Year’s Eve events in Torquay, Paignton or Brixham.
There are lots of stunning places to stay for New Year’s Eve in Torquay, Paignton or Brixham. Many of the hotels offer accommodation packages for the festive season so its always worth checking their own websites for the best deals.
Related
An exciting light trail is set to illuminate Torquay this Christmas, as part of the Bay of Lights. The enchanting light trail which is loved by all ages is set to illuminate Torquay's seafront, Torre Abbey and harbourside from Friday 29 November 2024 until Thursday 2 January 2025.
This year, the English Riviera will play host to an exciting event: The Bay of Lights! Taking place throughout Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the whole Bay will come alive with a flurry of illuminated events. From lantern parades, to a steam train covered in lights, to carols by candlelight, the English Riviera will have a truly magical feel this winter, so it’s worth indulging in a few nights away from home to take it all in. The Illumination Trail has been made possible after the council successfully secured funding through its Towns Deal Funding bid, with additional support provided by SWISCo and the English Riviera BID Company. Created by local company Future Technical Solutions (FTS) using low-energy LED bulbs
Torre Abbey comes alive with light! Celebrate 800 years of Christmas this immersive projection experience! This winter, Torre Abbey will transform into a breathtaking canvas of light and history with an innovative projection event, celebrating the rich heritage of the abbey and the festive spirit of Christmas. Scheduled for December 2024, this spectacular display will be designed by renowned artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid from The Projection Studio.
NEW FOR 2024 - Torquay's first Christmas Market at the Historical Torre Abbey as part of the Bay of Lights. Expect great local food traders, fun family activities and two atmospheric bars offering the best of the SW! Join us in making this event a huge success for The Bay!
We are delighted to announce that Carols in the Caves is coming back in November and December 2024! Get into the festive spirit and join us for a magical Christmas concert. We're teaming up once again with the fantastic 'Yours In Harmony' and 'Torbay Police and Community Choir' and the 'Red Rock Acappella' to perform Christmas Carols and showcase festive songs underground. This unique festival experience lasts two hours. Age 12+ Limited to 70 people. 6pm - 8pm OR 8.30pm - 10.30pm Warm clothing and sensible footwear recommended
A truly magical festive experience, you will go on a quest through the caves to find the true meaning of Christmas and see Santa. Part of the English Riviera Bay of Lights.
Visit Babbacombe Model Village this Christmas and enjoy festive scenes during the day & night, plus magical illuminations with lots of Christmas sparkle and festive lighting. CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONS: November 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th & 30th December 1st, 7th, 8th, then daily 14th to 24th, and 27th to 31st (closed Dec 25 & 26). January 2nd, 3rd & 4th (closed Jan 1). Opening Time: 11.00am to last entry 4.30pm, park closes by 6.30pm. Come join us for our famous illuminations with lots of added Christmas sparkle and festive lighting. Enjoy all that the Model Village has to offer along with some delightful miniature seasonal scenes as our little folk celebrate Christmas.
Our Panto cast this festive season will include Jennie Dale (CBeebies and Swashbuckle Star) as Fairy Fushcia, John Altman (Eastenders legend) as King Custard, Matt Lapinskas (Dancing On Ice and Eastenders star) as Fleshcreep. Back by popular demand - Michael Neilson returns to Torquay as Dame Trott, Isabel Canning (Sister Act UK Tour) as Jack, Lotti Brogan as Jill and Matthew Curnier as Billy. Join Jack, Dame Trott, and the lovable Ambrosia the Cow for an unforgettable escapade filled with FE-FI-FO-FUN! This spectacular production will transport you to a world of magic beans, a majestic castle in the clouds, and a walking, talking, and rather bad-tempered Giant. I
Santa is coming back to Paignton Zoo! Santa will be visiting us at the zoo on dates throughout the festive season, so book your visit to see him in his grotto. Each child ticket booked includes a gift from Santa and zoo entry (at a reduced price) for the day of their grotto visit. Mrs Claus will be spreading further festive joy hosting storytelling sessions at various times throughout the day. With live music every weekend, adults can enjoy a mulled wine and mince pie from our restaurant whilst soaking up the festive atmosphere. There will also be family friendly activities on site to add to the fun. Decorate a bauble for our Christmas tree, create some Christmas themed enrichment for our animals and make some eco-friendly reindeer food
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