Our country, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, is also a haven for cheese enthusiasts. From the historic streets of Alkmaar to the bustling squares of Gouda, Dutch cheese markets offer a sensory journey through centuries of tradition. Get ready to savor the finest cheeses, experience lively market scenes, and dive deep into the heart of the Netherlands’ rich dairy heritage.
The Gouda Cheese Market
Every Thursday morning from April to September, the historic town of Gouda transforms into a bustling cheese paradise. The air fills with the sounds of handshakes as cheese traders and farmers strike deals in the traditional manner. The scene is set with the iconic Gouda cheese girls amidst a lively crowd, while horses pull carts brimming with cheese wheels to the Weigh House. Here, cheese boys swiftly unload and weigh the cheeses on the original scales of De Goudse Waag. Beyond the cheese spectacle, visitors can explore stalls offering a variety of regional products and enjoy a crafts market. The afternoon offers even more activities: join a canal tour, take a guided walk with the Gouda Guides Guild, bake syrup waffles at Berg’s Bakery, or participate in the Beer-Wine-Cheese battle at IJsselhuis Gouda to discover the best flavor combinations.
đź“ŤMarkt 35, 2801 JK Gouda
📆Every Thursday starting from Apr 4, 2024, until Aug 29, 2024
⏰From 10h to 12h30
The Edam Cheese Market
On Wednesday mornings in July and August, Edam comes alive with its famed cheese market from 10:30 to 12:30. The day begins with a ceremonial bell ringing by distinguished guests, from politicians to sports figures. Originally closed in 1922, the market was revived in 1989 and now thrives with over 90 volunteers and support from BeemsterKaas. Visitors are charmed by the lively sounds of an old Dutch barrel organ and the Edam cheese chapel. The star attraction, the original spherical Edam cheese, harks back to the town’s 14th-century roots as a major dairy export hub. It’s definitely one of our favorite cheese markets!
đź“ŤJan Nieuwenhuizenplein 5, 1135 WT Edam
📆On Wednesdays from July 3rd to August 21st
⏰From 10h30 to 12h30
Alkmaar Cheese Market
Since 1593, Alkmaar’s Waagplein has been home to the famous cheese market, a vital part of the local economy. The market kicks off with a bell ringing and features traditions like knocking on cheese for inspection and hand-clap bargaining. Running from the last Friday in March to the last Friday in September, the market operates every Friday morning and Tuesday evenings in July and August. Thousands flock to witness cheese carriers, barrow-laden with up to 160 kilos of cheese, while traders negotiate prices and cheese girls share market insights. Don’t miss the nearby Cheese Museum for a deep dive into Edammer and Gouda history.
đź“ŤWaagplein 6, 1811 JP Alkmaar
📆Fridays from 10am to 1pm and also, in July and August, every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm