Is Gouda by Candlelight Europe’s Most Magical Holiday Event? Here’s Why
The town of Gouda, famous also outside the Netherlands for the characteristic cheese named after it, is visited by thousands of tourists every year. In addition to gastronomy, Gouda offers the charm of its history and the architecture that adorns the historic center.
Gouda by Candlelight: A Fairytale Christmas Event
In the run-up to Christmas, Gouda can be admired during a very special moment: Gouda by Candlelight (Gouda bij Kaarslicht), a fairytale celebration of lights, music, theater, culture, and entertainment. This year’s 69th edition takes place on Friday, 13 December 2024.
For the occasion, the old town is illuminated by thousands of candles, and all electric light sources are switched off at the same time, bathing the city streets in a dreamlike atmosphere. The presence of musical choirs creates a background of Christmas carols, adding further poetry to the city’s sights.
This is an event with numerous scheduled activities that attracts over 20,000 visitors from all over the world. From the countryside, shepherds bring their animals into town and join together in a living nativity scene, while the beautiful churches in the center offer free concerts, making it a real treat to stroll through the narrow streets amidst beautiful candlelit decorations.
Galleries and museums are open and freely accessible all day long, as are the city’s shops and restaurants, which prepare special menus to contribute to the success of this popular event.
The event begins at 2:30 p.m. with the opening concert, but the highlight of the day is between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., when everyone gathers in the square next to the medieval town hall. With the lights on the huge Christmas tree illuminated, people gather to sing Christmas carols accompanied by a gospel choir.
Useful Information
- Event Name: Gouda bij Kaarslicht
- Where: Gouda, Netherlands
- Date: 13 December 2024
- Hours: 2:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
