Gouda by Candlelight

We celebrated the 67th edition of Gouda by Candlelight on Friday 16 December 2022. It was a varied and extensive programme. Would you like to watch the ceremony by the Tree? Have a look here, the broadcast starts at 13min44, before then you hear Gouwestad Radio.

For a look at photos taken on the day, check out this page

The programme always starts at 14:00  with an opening concert in the ‘Goudse Schouwburg’. At the same time the rest of the afternoon programme starts in the various locations spread throughout the Gouda city centre and on the Market square. You can find anything from plays, music in a variety of genres, dance and tableau vivants.

The highlight of Gouda by Candlelight takes place around the large Christmas tree on the Market square from 19:00. The whole square is lit by the light emanating from candles in the windows of the houses and shops and from the magnificent historic Gothic city hall, where over 1500 candles turn the evening into an enchanting Christmas fairy tale. Imagine everyone singing Christmas songs together, listening to music, the Christmas story and special words from the Mayor of Gouda, deputy Mayor of Kongsberg and the Child Mayor of Gouda. The grand finale is of course the lighting of the Christmas tree lights. After this ceremony the festivities and performances continue until around 22:00.