Christmas is always a busy time as there are so many great activities and festive events in Torquay and nearby. With lots to choose from, we’ve listed some of the best ones we can find, to really get the festivities started!
1. Bay of Lights – Illumination Trail
This year, the English Riviera will play host to an exciting new 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.
And don’t forget the star of the show: the illuminated trail along Torquay seafront! From 29 Nov 2024 – 2 Jan 2025 you can enjoy a 1.5-mile route along Torquay seafront with glittering and unexpected surprises along the way. FIND OUT MORE
2. WinterFest – Torre Abbey
Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024. Torre Abbey will be hosting their Winter Fest event. Our annual gift and craft fair returns to the stunning setting of the Spanish Barn as part of Torre Abbey’s packed programme of Christmas events.
This charming event offers visitors the chance to get Christmas all wrapped up nice and early in a traditional setting. Expect unique handmade Christmas gifts and all sorts of other festival treats on offer. And why not indulge yourself in a hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine. FIND OUT MORE
3. Torquay Christmas Lights Switch On
Come and experience a great day in Torquay town centre. Father Christmas arriving in Fleet Walk, on Saturday 16th November 2024. There will be no big celebrity “switch on”, as the lights will appear when each trader switches on their lights. Once lit the town centre Christmas lights will stay lit for six weeks – 24 hours a day
4. Winter Wonderland Grotto
Meet Santa & the elves in his Christmas winter wonderland grotto at Fleet Walk, Torquay. Sparkling festive, award-winning animated display. It will be open various dates between 16 November – 24 December 2024.
Santa’s Grotto is run by volunteers who give their time to help raise funds for local, Rotary charities. A popular family attraction for children and the young-at-heart. We will be operating an appointment system with advance ticket sales only. Our family tickets for up to six people include a tour of the grotto, a chat with Santa, one present for each child (up to a maximum of four children) and a souvenir 7″x5″ mounted photograph to take away. Places are limited. Therefore, time slots will be strictly adhered to. Please ensure that you arrive in good time to avoid disappointment.
Our “elf” and safety team are working hard to ensure you have a “tree-mendous” time! FIND OUT MORE
5. Carols in the Caves – Kents Cavern
Due to popular demand, we are delighted to announce that Carols in the Caves is coming back in 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 the ‘Torbay Police and Community Choir’ to perform Christmas Carols and showcase festive songs underground. This unique festival experience lasts two hours.
Start seated in the Vestibule Chamber and hear the amazing acoustics of the choir and then take a walk around our magnificent cave system singing carols by candlelight. Finish with mulled wine/hot chocolate and festive treats in the Great Chamber!
Carols in the Caves takes place on the 26th November to 19th December BUY TICKETS
6. Totnes Christmas Market
Jingle on down to Totnes Christmas Markets and Late Night Shopping on Tuesdays during December to make magical memories for Christmas 2024. Enjoy music and entertainment as you sip on a mulled cider and savour the special Christmas atmosphere. Children will love the free Totnes Gnome Trail! There are a plethora of unique gifts and delicious food and drink offerings from over 70 artisan stalls. FIND OUT MORE
7. Newton Abbot Victorian Market
Wednesday 4th December 2024: Join in with a fun-filled festive family evening and put yourselves firmly in the Christmas mood. Stall holders are dressed in Victorian costume and the event will take you back to Christmases past! Starts at 6pm with late night shopping until 8pm. The following two Wednesdays are also late night shopping in the town. FIND OUT MORE
Don’t forget to check out our fantastic range of breaks over the Christmas and New Year period or why not celebrate Christmas early, with one of our Turkey and Tinsel breaks. CHRISTMAS BREAKS AT TLH