The faces of

Behind the scenes of the Gouda Cheese Market, dozens of enthusiastic volunteers dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to this wonderful event. From cheese girls and cheese boys to market masters and logistical helpers, together they bring the history and tradition of the cheese market to life.

In this overview, we proudly introduce our volunteers. Meet the faces who make the Gouda Cheese Market so special!

No farmers, no cheese! The Gouda Cheese Market revolves around the craft and tradition of cheesemaking, and that of course begins with the farmers. With their craftsmanship, love for the land and eye for quality, they ensure that Gouda is known around the world for its cheese.

During the cheese market, these proud farmers stand with their cheeses on the Market Square, ready to trade, share their stories and take visitors along in the rich history of Gouda cheese. Here you can meet the farmers who give the Gouda Cheese Market its authentic character.

At the Gouda Cheese Market, it’s about more than just cheese, it’s also about the art of trading. The traders are at the heart of this traditional cheese ritual. With their sharp eye, firm handshake and sense for quality, they know exactly how to close the best deal.

They bring the atmosphere of the past to life, when lively negotiations took place on the Market Square and deals were sealed with the traditional handclap. Here you can meet the traders who continue this centuries-old tradition at the Gouda Cheese Market.

The Gouda Cheese Market is more than just cheese — it is a living museum where traditional crafts come to life. From potters and wooden shoe makers to cheese makers and basket weavers, these artisans proudly demonstrate their centuries-old techniques with passion and skill.

They keep these traditions alive and give visitors a glimpse of how things used to be done at the market and in the workshop. Discover the faces behind these crafts and admire their beautiful work during the Gouda Cheese Market.

At the heart of the Gouda Cheese Market, the Weighmaster plays a special role. He is the guardian of fairness and tradition: every cheese that is traded passes through his hands and is officially weighed in the historic Gouda Weigh House (Waag).

With his distinctive chain of office and years of experience, the Weighmaster ensures that the trade follows the proper rules, just as it has for centuries. Here you can meet the Weighmaster, the keeper of the cheese weights and a true symbol of fair trade at the Gouda Cheese Market.

At the Gouda Cheese Market, there is always something to see and to hear — and that is thanks to our enthusiastic speakers. They are the voice of the market, sharing the stories behind the tradition and guiding visitors through the history of the world-famous Gouda cheese.

With flair, humour and a great deal of knowledge, they make sure that visitors of all ages truly experience the cheese market. Meet the presenters who bring the Gouda Cheese Market to life with their stories and explanations.

The Gouda Cheese Market would not be the same without the traditional arrival of the cheeses by horse and cart. Our experienced carriage drivers, with a great love for the market and for their horses, ensure that the cheeses arrive at the square in an authentic way.

With a steady hand they guide their horses through the streets of Gouda, just as it was done in the past. Here you can meet the proud drivers who keep this special tradition alive.

The Gouda Cheese Market is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the ears! Every week, our musicians create the perfect atmosphere, with the street organ and the jazz ensemble taking turns.

The street organ brings the nostalgia of the cheese market to life with classic tunes, while the jazz ensemble adds a modern twist to the tradition with its swinging rhythms. Together, they make the cheese market a musical experience that enchants visitors of all ages.

Behind the scenes of the Gouda Cheese Market is a dedicated board that ensures this centuries-old tradition continues to thrive. From organisation and coordination to preserving the historic charm, the board makes sure that every market is a success.

Thanks to their passion, knowledge and commitment, Gouda can enjoy this unique event year after year. Here you can meet the people who keep the Gouda Cheese Market running.