Gouda by Candlelight | December 12
Thisyear, there will be a ceremony at the tree on Gouda's Market Square (despite the renovation of the town hall). The 70th edition will once again take place on and in front of the steps of the beautiful town hall!
A festive and contemporary program
This year, we have once again succeeded in putting together a varied and contemporary program, while retaining the beloved traditions. Spread throughout the city center, you can enjoy performances in all kinds of genres: from classical to modern, from theater and poetry to singing, dance, and music.
In addition, new locations have been added, namely: Kuiperstraat, Komijnsteeg, Westhaven 33, and (back again)the IJsselhuis! Another new feature is that you can now follow the ceremony live on the screens at Cinema Gouda, completely free of charge.
The program starts with an opening concert (+/- 2:30 p.m.) in the Goudse Schouwburg.
Ceremony at the tree
The public lighting is off and the houses and shops around the Market Square and the historic town hall are partly lit by hundreds of candles. A magical moment for and by the people of Gouda. Gouda by Candlelight is for everyone, and that will be evident during this special ceremony.
Highlights of the evening included performances by actor and singer Bas Ragas and Anne-Wil Blankers. Speeches were given by Mayor Pieter Verhoeve, Children's Mayor Tommie Blauwendraat, and Mayor Line Spiten from the twin town of Kongsberg. Poems were recited by city poets Chris Bellekom and Timo van Gastel.
Around 7:50 p.m., we count down together to the magical moment: the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere and tradition of Gouda by Candlelight – a magical moment of light, warmth, and togetherness for 70 years. All information can be found in the free program newspaper, at www.goudabijkaarslicht.nl, Explore Gouda, Facebook, Instagram, and X pages. Omroep West will once again provide live TV coverage. This can also be viewed live on Gouwestad TV.
Date: Friday , December 12, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Location: Goudacity center
Photo: Astrid den Haan & Lima Photography
