19. Sint-Janskerk
The longest church in the Netherlands with the world-famous Gouda stained glass windows!
11.00 – 22.00
Visit the Winter Fair!
On Friday, December 13 (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM) and Saturday, December 14 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM), the stunning Sint-Jan Church in Gouda will host a cozy Winter Fair. During this unique event, the church will be open to the public free of charge—a wonderful opportunity to admire the magnificent Sint-Jan and its famous stained glass windows while enjoying warm hospitality.
Stroll through the various stalls for shopping, savor delicious food, and connect with others at the food court. Your purchases also support good causes. The fair features musical performances, including a concert during Gouda by Candlelight.
Take a moment for reflection in the quiet center or prayer room, and experience the Christmas story in a special way. The Winter Fair is more than just a Christmas market—it’s a festive celebration with something for everyone!
11.00 – 12.00
Lunchtime concert by Gerben Budding on the organ of the Sint-Jan Church.
13.00 – 13.30
To brighten the dark days before Christmas, Stedelijke Harmonie Caecilia presents a diverse program during Gouda by Candlelight 2024. This atmospheric concert will be conducted by Mark Beursgens.
Stedelijke Harmonie Caecilia is Gouda’s oldest wind orchestra. For over 100 years, they have provided music for local events. While the musicians used to march through the streets in earlier times, today, Caecilia is a modern and versatile symphonic wind orchestra. The ensemble consists of about 35 amateur musicians from diverse backgrounds and is led by a professional conductor.
18.00 – 19.00
Popkoor Prestige Gouda is a vibrant pop and show choir with a repertoire featuring the latest pop hits currently heard on the radio. The choir rehearses weekly under the direction of conductor Mariska Prins and regularly performs with its own live band. Popkoor Prestige is part of Prestige Vocal Groups, the largest nationwide organization for pop choirs.
20.00 – 22.00
The Sint-Jan Christmas Band will perform a selection of classic songs.