Torquay Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Torquay and surrounding areas
Torquay shines this Christmas season with the sea-front and harbourside lit up by Holiday lights and festive events that draw crowds to Torre Abbey and the seafront. Explore the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, WinterFest 2025 at Torre Abbey or enjoy a family pantomime like Jack and the Beanstalk alongside seasonal markets and Santa visits. Between coastal walks and illuminated gardens, Torquay offers a coastal spin on holiday activities with plenty of atmospheric things to do for families.
Find the best Torquay Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
17 eventsChristmas market set against Exeter Cathedral
Christmas Lights
16 events1.5-mile illumination trail with 19 light installations.
Christmas Shows
9 eventsA GIANT pantomime adventure with a star-studded cast.
Christmas Activities
22 eventsMagical steam train ride with Santa Claus.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Bay of Lights Illumination Trail 2025
1.5-mile illumination trail with 19 light installations.
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Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
(Exeter)
Christmas market set against Exeter Cathedral
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Plymouth's Winter Wonderland
(Plymouth)
Festive winter wonderland with ice skating and Santa's Grotto.
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Santa Express Train Ride
(Bishops Lydeard)
Magical steam train ride with Santa Claus.
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Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime
A GIANT pantomime adventure with a star-studded cast.
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Fused Glass Christmas Decorations Workshop
(Teignmouth)
Create personalized fused glass Christmas decorations.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Torquay
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Torquay.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Boringdon Hall
Savor an exquisite festive afternoon tea at the historic Boringdon Hall. Delight in...
View full details βTorquay Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Torquay
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Torquay!
Torquay Christmas FAQ
The Bay of Lights festival, including the Illumination Trail, pixel tree displays, and a real ice rink, is Torquayβs flagship holiday event, running from late November through early January. Torre Abbeyβs projection mapping show is another major highlight.
Torquayβs Bay of Lights combines modern light art with community parades and interactive installations, while Torre Abbeyβs projection show celebrates local history through festive visuals and period music. The areaβs coastal setting also inspires unique seaside-themed decorations.
The town center and waterfront are the heart of the light displays, especially along the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail. Nearby Paignton and Brixham also feature impressive pixel tree installations, adding to the festive atmosphere across Torbay.
Look for holiday markets and craft fairs in the town center, waterfront, and at venues like Torre Abbey. These markets often showcase local artisans, food producers, and unique gifts.
The Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, neighborhood light displays, and pixel tree shows in Paignton and Brixham are all free to enjoy. Strolling the decorated streets and enjoying the festive atmosphere costs nothing and is a local favorite.
Families will love the interactive light installations on the Illumination Trail, visits to the ice rink (ticketed), and festive markets with kid-friendly activities. The projection show at Torre Abbey is also engaging for all ages.