Gouda by Candlelight
Visitors experience Gouda's historic city center filled with a diverse, day-long program of entertainment and cultural performances for all ages. The centerpiece of the celebration is the ceremony by the Christmas tree, set between De Waag and the historic town hall. Guests can stroll through festive streets and alleys to watch musical and spoken word artists.
What to Expect
The 71st edition featuring a tree ceremony in historic Gouda.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
City Center
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Stichting Gouda bij Kaarslicht
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors who enjoy festive city walks
Vibe
Festive and historic
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: The tree ceremony is at 19:00.
- Parking: The page recommends arriving by train or bus because of the crowds in the city center. Drivers can use designated parking areas and continue to the city center by shuttle or ferry.
- Accessibility: Performance locations are accessible to wheelchair users unless indicated otherwise at the specific venue.
Tips & Advice
- Book your restaurant table well ahead, and a hotel or B&B if you're staying the weekend, because many people come to Gouda for this every year.
- Take the train or bus because of the crowds, and use the station's Centrum exit for the roughly five-minute walk into the center.
- Don't leave your bike on the Markt, because bikes parked there are removed; use the racks at the Kleiwegbrug or on the Herpstraat instead.
- Look up your last train or bus home on ns.nl or 9292.nl before you go, because the tree ceremony is the evening highlight.
- If you drive, use the designated event parking areas, where a shuttle or ferry takes you into the crowded center.
Special Events & Promotions
- Because of the town hall renovation, the Waag takes the spotlight this year, with the tree placed between the Waag and the town hall scaffold
- Headliner Eva-Nicole Leroux performs at the tree ceremony in front of the Waag
- Manu van Kersbergen, the first headliner announced, performs during the program around the Christmas tree
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's different this year?
The town hall is being renovated, so the Waag takes the spotlight for the tree ceremony. The tree stands between the Waag and the town hall scaffold instead of on the star in front of the steps.
Who's performing?
Two headliners have been announced so far, both from Gouda. Manu van Kersbergen is a writer, performer and musician whose act combines spoken word and music. Singer-songwriter Eva-Nicole Leroux performs at the tree ceremony in front of the Waag.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The day-long program is for young and old, with something for everyone.
What's the best way to get there?
Take the train or bus, because the city center gets crowded. The center is about a five-minute walk from Gouda station's Centrum exit. Drivers can use designated parking areas with a shuttle or ferry into town.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Performance locations are accessible to everyone, including wheelchair users. Any spot that isn't fully accessible is marked at the location. The historic center has many small alleys.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.