Events in Torquay
The English Riviera is not only popular for its beautiful coastline and warm hospitality, but for a vibrant calendar of entertainment and events that attract locals and holidaymakers alike. Throughout the year there are festivals, sporting events, food celebrations and family entertainment that add another dimension to your South Devon visit. So, whether you’re planning a spring getaway, a summer holiday or an autumn escape, there’s almost always something happening around Torquay’s famous harbour, beaches and waterfront.
What’s on in spring in Torquay?
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit South Devon, as the weather warms up, the flowers come out and the first of the year’s big events get into full swing.
English Riviera Airshow
Usually held in May, the English Riviera Airshow is a three-day spectacle featuring RAF displays, historic aircraft, aerobatic teams and family entertainment over Tor Bay. In the skies iconic displays include the Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the Typhoon team, while on the ground there’s typically an Armed Force Village, fairground, food and drink traders, stall holders, plus a range of activities and live entertainment. It’s a great day out for all ages.
English Riviera Walking Festival
Walking is one of the most popular activities in South Devon, with picturesque trails in abundance, not least along the magnificent South West Coast Path. It’s therefore fitting that there’s an English Riviera Walking Festival, focused on the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. The Walking Festival offers guided routes for every ability, ranging from gentle coastal strolls to longer countryside hikes, often accompanied by local historians, geologists and wildlife experts.
Markets and artisan events
Throughout the year there are different markets along the waterfront and surrounding areas spanning a variety of events from arts and crafts to crepes and clothing. There’s the Torquay International Market for global street food, crafts and clothing, a regular Street and Craft Market, and artisan markets at Cockington Court Craft Centre.
What’s on in summer in Torquay?
Summer is the busiest season in South Devon, when schools are out and the weather often reaches Mediterranean levels of sunshine, accompanied by frequent events to help you make the most of your visit.
Torbay Royal Regatta
Dating back to a yacht race in 1811, the Torbay Royal Regatta has become a central feature of summer in this seaside town, celebrating Torquay’s maritime heritage with sailing competitions, rowing races, onshore entertainment and family activities around the harbour. Whether you’re taking part or simply watching from the marina, it’s one of the highlights of the summer calendar.
Anderton and Rowlands Funfair
A long-standing tradition on Torre Abbey Meadows, this travelling funfair brings classic rides, games and family entertainment to Torquay during the summer months. Expect everything from dodgems and trampolines to candy floss and traditional attractions.
Bay Brass Concerts
Making excellent use of the curated outside spaces in Torquay, throughout the summer, brass bands perform regular concerts in Princess Gardens on the seafront for a traditional seaside atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening stroll or picnic overlooking the bay.
Torquay Pride
Celebrating diversity and inclusion, Torquay Pride is an unequivocally joyful event that celebrates the community across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. People gather, march, dance, and celebrate together with plenty of entertainment, from a Market Village to plenty of performances.
Electric Bay Festival
Held each summer at Torre Abbey Meadows, the Electric Bay Festival is an annual open-air electronic dance music festival that began in 2022 and quickly became a popular three-day event featuring DJs and live acts spanning house, techno, drum and bass, indie rock, and garage.
Riviera Tribute Festival
At Torbay Showground, the Riviera Tribute Festival is an energising day of music and family-friendly fun that exemplifies summer vibes. Usually held in August, it features food and drink, popular artists, and crowd-pleasing anthems so you can dance the day away.
What’s on in autumn in Torquay?
Autumn is actually one of our favourite times of the year, combining coastal scenery, the glow of the changing seasons, and enjoying some of Torquay’s best cultural events as well.
International Agatha Christie Festival
Born in Torquay, Agatha Christie is celebrated in this part of the world in lots of different ways, one of which is the annual International Agatha Christie Festival. Featuring talks, performances, guided walks, literary discussions and themed events, it’s a chance to explore locations connected with the famous author while enjoying exhibitions and activities inspired by her famous novels.
The International English Riviera Film Festival
The International English Riviera Film Festival is an annual event celebrating and promoting filmmaking amidst the beauty of the South West, in a showcase of talent from around the world. Set at venues across Torbay it’s a vibrant celebration of storytelling and artistry, where diverse voices and visions come to life.
England’s Seafood Feast
A two-week celebration of the UK’s most prized daily catches, the historic fishing towns of Brixham, Paignton, and Torquay are the perfect place for England’s Seafood FEAST culinary festival. Enjoy cooking demonstrations, seafood experiences, harbour events and opportunities to meet local fishermen. It’s a foodie favourite.
Torbay Half Marathon & 10K
For those looking for a more active holiday experience, the Torbay Half Marathon and 10K is one of the South West’s most scenic running routes, inviting you to choose from two distances, raise money for charity, and get a tour of the English Riviera in the process.
Cockington Court Apple Day
A free autumn festival, Cockington Court Apple Day is a wholesome fete at Cockington Court, where the whole family can enjoy seasonal entertainment. A shuttle bus runs from the Strand in Torquay, or you can make your own way, discovering activities, food and drink that celebrates the harvest time of year.
Babbacombe Model Village Halloween
Bringing the magic of Halloween to the delightful Babbacombe Model Village. As darkness falls the tiny town becomes a world of spine-tingling surprises with spooky scenes and seasonal entertainment that fright and delight adults and children alike.
Dartmouth Food Festival
Dartmouth Food Festival is one of the most popular events in the South Hams. Held in nearby Dartmouth, it features three days of fabulous food, world-class chefs, and the finest produce from Devon’s coast and countryside. Celebrating Devon’s culinary heritage, it’s also a chance to explore Dartmouth itself.
Illuminate the Night
At Torbay Showground, Illuminate The Night is an evening of light, energy, and entertainment, culminating in a superb fireworks display. The occasion typically features a funfair, street food, and entertainment, and is a fantastic opportunity to entertain the whole family.
What’s on in winter in Torquay?
Winter has its own charm in South Devon, with seasonal magic spanning the coastline, leading up to festivities around Christmas and New Year. From quieter days to celebratory ones, Torquay continues to offer opportunities to get involved.
Bay of Lights Illumination Trail
A sparkling way to celebrate the season, the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail is a 1.5-mile free winter light festival on the English Riviera. Featuring large-scale interactive light installations, digital light shows, festive music, and glowing sea creatures, it stretches from the historic Torre Abbey along the seafront to Torquay Harbour.
Bay of Lights Ice Skating Rink
An all-weather rink in Abbey Park, the Bay of Lights Ice Skating Rink typically operates from December to January featuring 45-minute sessions, a sparkling canopy for evening skating, festive food stalls, and dedicated sessions for parents and toddlers.
Torre Abbey WinterFest
A popular festive craft market, Torre Abbey WinterFest typically features local artisans, live music, mulled wine, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy the atmosphere, sample local fare, and get a little present inspiration at the same time. You might even meet Father Christmas.
Carols in the Cave
Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves is one of Torquay’s most unique attractions, and at Christmas time it becomes even more magical with Carols in the Cave. An enchanting Christmas event, it promises an atmospheric evening of festive cheer, mulled wine and merriment, in a unique, candlelit underground concert.
Pantomimes at the theatre
Panto is a seasonal highlight wherever you are in the UK, and Torquay likes to do it as well as anyone else. At the Princess Theatre, each year brings a new entertainment offering with the most popular touring productions coming to town. In addition, there’s Babbacombe Theatre, which has been part of the Bay’s tourism industry since the 1930s.
Paignton Lions Club Walk into the Sea
An annual Boxing Day charity swim held on the Paignton seafront, the Paignton Lions Club ‘Walk into the Sea’ is full of good cheer, as hundreds of fundraisers don optional fancy dress and at the starter’s command walk into the chilly waters of the English Channel where fun and frivolity begins.
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest annual event in Torquay?
The English Riviera Airshow is widely considered one of Torquay’s largest annual events, attracting thousands of visitors with spectacular flying displays and free seafront entertainment. That said, Torbay Royal Regatta can also give it a run for its money.
When is the best time to visit Torquay for festivals?
Late spring through to early autumn offers the busiest programme of festivals and outdoor events, although Christmas is an equally rewarding time to visit.
Are Torquay events family-friendly?
Yes. The majority of the annual events in Torquay include children’s entertainment and activities suitable for all ages.
Do I need tickets?
Many of Torquay’s annual festivals are free to attend and plenty don’t require prior booking, but it’s always best to check in advance just in case.
Where to stay in Torquay
Whether you want to get fully-immersed in local traditions, or you watch the world go by from the peace of your own balcony, Torquay offers lots to see and do on a South Devon holiday, and is a fantastic place to stay. Amongst the holiday cottages in Torquay you can stay in the heart of it all or nearby for a little more tranquility. Whether you’re on a family holiday or a romantic break, we’ve got beautiful holiday homes to choose from for every occasion.
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