7. de Markt

Town hall

18.20 – 18.45
While the candles are being lit in the town hall, the 20-member Bigband Concordia plays cheerful Christmas songs from the town hall steps to set the mood before the ceremony at the tree starts at 19.00.

19.00 – 20.00 uur
The highlight of the day is the ceremony at the tree. The public lighting is turned off, and the historic town hall, houses, and shops around the Market Square are illuminated by thousands of candles.

A magical moment for and by the people of Gouda. Gouda by Candlelight is for everyone, and this will be evident during the ceremony. In addition to the main act, Leona Philippo the ZA-EL Gospel Choir led by Elvis E will take the stage. Singing along is guaranteed! Traditionally, mayor Pieter Verhoeve will give a Christmas speech. Just before eight, we will all count down with the mayor of Kongsberg, Line Spiten, to the lighting of the Christmas tree. This is how we collectively usher in the Christmas season.

Levende Kerststal met volledige bezetting en pony en kip

📸 Leona Philppo en Elvis E

Levende Kerststal met volledige bezetting en pony en kip
de Gorgonen; 3 dames in 17de eeuws frivole kleding en 1 dame verkleed als man met hoge hoed en snor

📸 de Gorgonen

de Uitblazers

📸 de Uitblazers

Markt and surroundings

Wandering through the center of the city, you can encounter the following musicians, artists, and acts between 14.00 and 22.00:

  • Theatergroep Maskerade: a group of 15 singers performing Christmas carols in clothing from the time of Charles Dickens. This year marks their 20th performance during Gouda by Candlelight.
  • De Gorgonen: a walking improv theater by Clara van de Boom, Claudia Verschuren, Marleine Verbeek, and Rieneke Batelaan.
  • Kerstwind: like a whirlwind, they roam the center with all the traditional Christmas songs in their repertoire.
  • Pretkapel ‘De Uitblazers’: once again, they will make their presence known during Gouda by Candlelight. Come enjoy these 8 musical Santa Clauses and Santas. With songs like Winter Wonderland, Let It Snow, and Frosty the Snowman, ‘De Uitblazers’ will bring a cozy Christmas atmosphere. Who wouldn’t want to sing along with Jingle Bells or Last Christmas? They will be found from 6:00 PM in the streets around the Market.Winterwonderland, Let itSnow en Frosty the Snowman voor een gezellige kerstsfeer. Wie wil er nu niet meezingen met Jingle Bells of Last Christmas? Zij zijn vanaf 18.00 uur te vinden in de straatjes rond de Markt. 
  • Carousel organ De Pansfluiter: to be seen and heard at various locations in the city center. The organ plays a festive and extensive Christmas repertoire. The Pansfluiter is protected Dutch historical cultural heritage and unique in its kind.
  • Vocalgroep All Xclusive: these six women sing multi-part a cappella pop, soul, and jazz.
  • Cor Verkade: (Watch out for the man with the suitcase) who will captivate you with his stories.
  • VoetFolk!: this strange group of cheerful musicians wanders across streets and squares. Unamplified and untouched, they bring a unique, festive atmosphere and cheerfulness everywhere.
  • Koor MotownSouls: if you’re a fan of Motown, classic soul, and gospel, you won’t want to miss this choir.