1. De Goudse Schouwburg
From 1:30 PM until late in the evening, you can enter the Goudse Schouwburg for free and be amazed by live music, children’s activities, and a sing-along.. The Receptionist (Arnoud de Graaff) will receive you between 1:45 PM and 2:45 PM with his saxophone, friendly smile, humor, and sometimes even a spontaneous dance. It’s a party from the very first moment!
Grote zaal
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Attend the opening concert at the Goudse Schouwburg with the Candlelight World Ensemble. The world is at home in Gouda. Specially assembled for the 70th edition of Gouda by Candlelight, a group of musicians from around the world will play an impressive mix of worldly and oriental Christmas carols and songs in a festive atmosphere. This special musical company consists of new talents and Gouda familiar faces: City carillonneur and thoroughbred musician Boudewijn Zwart on piano and house carillon. Anan Alkadamani from Syria on the violin and Ilein Bermudez, from Venezuela, vocals and cello. Sofie de Bruijn from Woerden, presentation, piano and singing. Draymell Diaz uit Costa Rica speelt de hobo. Lidor Mesika from Israel piano and vocals. Last, but not least, Bram de Regt from Gouda completes the company and plays the trumpet. Sophie asks the musicians to share some of their fondest Christmas and Chanukah memories with us during the songs.
Music runs deep in the genes of this company. Be surprised by this extraordinary musical journey around the world during the opening concert of Gouda by Candlelight 2025 in the main hall of the Goudse Schouwburg.
5:00 PM – 5:45 PM
The musical performance Shadow Flight tells the story of a young asylum seeker who is threatened with deportation. His classmates take action and decide to stay at school to draw attention to his situation. Over the course of one night they share personal stories, memories, dreams and fears. With Shadow Flight, the creators want to share stories and start a conversation about young asylum seekers in the Netherlands. The performance is played by students from the International Link Class with John de Heij Theater Productions.
9:00 PM – 10:15 PM
The X-mas Sing-along is back! Een dampende live-band en fantastische solisten brengen alle grote Christmas hits, such as All I Want for Christmas, Last Christmas and more. So put on your ugly Christmas sweater, hang up your lights and sing along loudly!
📸 Sofie de Bruijn
📸 Boudewijn Zwart
📸 Anan Alkadamani
Theatercafé
3:45 PM – 4:15 PM and 5:15 PM – 5:45 PM
Danny van der Wielen is a Gouda singer-songwriter who writes alternative pop songs full of intimacy and depth. With guitar in hand, he builds up his music layer by layer, with influences from indie, folk and soul. His lyrics touch the core of everyday emotions and unspoken thoughts – personal and recognizable.
4:15 – 4:45 PM
Boudewijn Zwart plays the piano and the carillon. Anan Alkadamani from Syria plays the violin, and Ilein Bermudez from Venezuela provides vocals and cello. Together they play traditional and oriental music in a Christmas atmosphere.
4:45 – 5:15 PM
Draymell Diaz (oboe) is a passionate artist who, in his own unique style, brings together a new, soulful, and captivating fusion of traditions. He explores themes such as connection, love and the things that every person experiences. Draymell will not only play but will also perform Christmas songs with one or more guest musicians.
Kleine Zaal
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Gouda Pop School lets its young talents shine! They play a mix of songs, including undoubtedly a unique arrangement of a Christmas classic. Come and discover the stars of tomorrow.
Studio67
3:30 – 5:00 PM
There’s plenty to do for the kids too! Experience a magical afternoon full of Watch children’s Christmas films and decorate Christmas cakes at Studio67 while your parents enjoy the theatre café or a performance.
In front of the door
1:30 PM – late
Treat yourself to mulled wine, hot chocolate, delicious snacks, and several surprise concerts at the Christmas stall outside.
