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X-WR-CALDESC:Evenementen voor Dutch Countryside
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DTSTART:20260101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260410T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260410T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001042-1775815200-1775826000@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-04-10/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260415T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260419T213000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20230412T195900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T093316Z
UID:10000306-1776243600-1776634200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Bloemencorso Noordwijk Lisse Haarlem
DESCRIPTION:De lente wordt in Nederland gevierd met het wereldberoemde Bloemencorso Bollenstreek dat van Noordwijk via Lisse (Keukenhof) naar Haarlem loopt. Het Bloemencorso rijdt maar liefst 42 kilometer. In 2025 is het Bloemencorso op zaterdag 12 april. Van 9 april tot 13 april zijn er verschillende evenementen rondom het Bloemencorso. \n\n\n\n                        Bloemencorso Noordwijk Lisse Haarlem 2025Wat kunt u verwachten bij het Bloemencorso?Wanneer wordt het Bloemencorso in 2025 gehouden?Hoe lang duurt het Bloemencorso?Wat is de toegangsprijs?Hoe kom ik bij het Bloemencorso?Waar kan ik verblijven in de buurt van het Bloemencorso?\n\n\nWat kunt u verwachten bij het Bloemencorso?\n\n\n\nHet bloemencorso in april is het grootste voorjaarscorso van Nederland. Het is een uniek corso omdat het volledig is opgebouwd met voorjaarsbloemen. De praalwagens zijn voornamelijk opgebouwd met hyacintbloemen en natuurlijk worden er ook tulpen gebruikt bij het maken van de praalwagens. Het Bloemencorso is het evenement waarmee de lente in Nederland wordt gevierd en is met een miljoen bezoekers een van de populairste evenementen in het voorjaar. \n\n\n\nWanneer wordt het Bloemencorso in 2025 gehouden?\n\n\n\nHet Bloemencorso vindt in 2025 plaats op zaterdag 12 april. Op vrijdagavond 11 april vindt het verlichte bloemencorso plaats en op zondag zijn de corso’s in het centrum van Haarlem te bewonderen. \n\n\n\nHoe lang duurt het Bloemencorso?\n\n\n\nHet Bloemencorso loopt op zaterdag 12 april van half 10 ‘s ochtends tot 21.30 uur. Gedurende deze tijd rijdt het corso van Noordwijk naar Haarlem. Een ruim 42 kilometer lange tocht langs verschillende dorpen en steden. Als u langs de kant staat\, duurt het ongeveer 1 uur voordat het hele bloemencorso voorbij is. \n\n\n\nWat is de toegangsprijs?\n\n\n\nJe kan gratis naar het Bloemencorso Bollenstreek kijken vanaf de kant van de weg. Wilt u echter kijken vanaf een van de tribunes\, overdekt en met voorzieningen als een toilet\, dan moet u vooraf een plaats reserveren. Hieronder ziet u een overzicht van tickets en tours die in 2025 beschikbaar zijn. \n\n\n\nDatumPrijs11 AprilBloemencorso avond tribune + Keukenhof tour€ 139\,50Koop tickets12 AprilTour van Amsterdam naar Keukenhof & Bloemencorso€52\,50Koop tickets12 AprilBloemencorso VIP Tour vanuit Amsterdam€ 139\,50Koop tickets12 AprilBloemencorso tribune Lisse centrum + lunch€ 77\,00Uitverkocht12 AprilBloemencorso tribune Lisse zuid + lunch€ 77\,00Koop tickets12 AprilBloemencorso tribune Noordwijk€ 29\,50Koop tickets12 AprilBloemencorso tribune Hillegom€ 29\,50Koop tickets12 AprilBloemencorso tribune Voorhout (niet overdekt)€ 29\,50Koop tickets13 AprilBloemencorso EXPO Haarlem + Keukenhof tour€ 94\,50Koop tickets\n\n\n\nHoe kom ik bij het Bloemencorso?\n\n\n\nHet bloemencorso trekt van Noordwijk naar Haarlem. De bereikbaarheid is afhankelijk van waar u de bloemenshow wilt bekijken. Met de auto zijn alle locaties goed bereikbaar. Met het openbaar vervoer is het het makkelijkst om te kijken bij de Keukenhof\, Noordwijk en Haarlem. \n\n\n\n\nBekijk de route van het Bloemencorso.\n\n\n\n\nWaar kan ik verblijven in de buurt van het Bloemencorso?\n\n\n\nOok voor een hotel is het belangrijk om na te gaan waar je wilt kijken. Een hotel in Amsterdam is een goede keuze\, maar vaak duur. Er zijn ook goede hotels in Noordwijk en Haarlem die prefect zijn voor een bezoek aan het bloemencorso. \n\n\n\n\nBekijk hotels in de buurt van het Bloemencorso\n\n\n\n\nPopulair op Dutch Countryside\n\n\n\nBekijk de windmolens in de Zaanse SchansBewonder de tulpen in het tulpenpark KeukenhofPlan uw bezoek met de plattegrond van het Nederlandse PlattelandVoordelig reizen met het openbaar vervoer met de Dutch Countryside Card
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/bloemencorso-noordwijk-lisse-haarlem/
LOCATION:Noord Holland
CATEGORIES:Flower
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/corso-lisse.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260417T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260417T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001043-1776420000-1776430800@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-04-17/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260424T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260424T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001044-1777024800-1777035600@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-04-24/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260501T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260501T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001045-1777629600-1777640400@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-05-01/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260508T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260508T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001046-1778234400-1778245200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-05-08/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260515T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260515T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001047-1778839200-1778850000@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-05-15/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260522T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260522T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001048-1779444000-1779454800@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-05-22/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260529T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260529T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001049-1780048800-1780059600@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-05-29/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260605T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260605T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164744
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001050-1780653600-1780664400@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-06-05/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260612T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260612T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001051-1781258400-1781269200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-06-12/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260619T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260619T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001052-1781863200-1781874000@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-06-19/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260626T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260626T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001053-1782468000-1782478800@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-06-26/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260703T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260703T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001054-1783072800-1783083600@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-07-03/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260710T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260710T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001055-1783677600-1783688400@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-07-10/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260717T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260717T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001056-1784282400-1784293200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-07-17/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260724T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260724T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001057-1784887200-1784898000@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-07-24/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260731T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260731T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001058-1785492000-1785502800@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-07-31/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260807T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260807T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001059-1786096800-1786107600@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-08-07/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260814T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260814T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001060-1786701600-1786712400@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-08-14/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260821T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260821T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001061-1787306400-1787317200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-08-21/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260828T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260828T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001062-1787911200-1787922000@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-08-28/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260904T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260904T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001063-1788516000-1788526800@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-09-04/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260911T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260911T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001064-1789120800-1789131600@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-09-11/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260918T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260918T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001065-1789725600-1789736400@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-09-18/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260925T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260925T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T164745
CREATED:20260222T164026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T164810Z
UID:10001066-1790330400-1790341200@dutchcountryside.com
SUMMARY:Alkmaar Cheese Market
DESCRIPTION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nAlkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\nThousands of visitors from all over the world come specially to the Alkmaar cheese market. It is therefore a special spectacle with a square full of cheese and lugging cheese carriers. The cheese market is held just over 40 kilometres from the centre of Amsterdam. \n\n\n\nIn 1365\, Alkmaar has weighing rights and one scale\, but in 1612 these are already four. When the first real cheese market has taken place\, it is covered in mists. Old documents have been found that clearly state that the cheese market took place with certainty in 1622\, but there is also evidence that the cheese carrier guild was established in 1593; from this we can conclude that there must have been a cheese market back then. \n\n\n\nPowered by GetYourGuide\n\n\n\n                        Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026Alkmaar Cheese MarketWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?What can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?Program Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026How to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?New in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\nWhen is the cheese market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\nThe cheese market in Alkmaar is held every Friday morning. The first cheese market of 2026 is on Friday 27 March and the last cheese market is on 25 September. The market starts at 10 am and lasts until 1 pm. \n\n\n\nWhat can i expect at the Alkmaar Cheese Market?\n\n\n\nDuring the cheese market in Alkmaar\, the judges and traders go to work. They inspect the cheeses. They do this not only by looking at the cheese; the cheese is beaten and cut in half. They also take out a piece of cheese with a special cheese drill. They smell the cheese and check how elastic the piece is; this tells something about the fat content. Furthermore the cheese is crumbled between the fingers and of course tasted. \n\n\n\nProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 2026\n\n\n\nAlthough the cheese market does not start until 10 a.m.\, the work begins at 7 a.m. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, they place about 30\,000 kilos of Gouda cheese in long rows on the Waagplein. The number of cheeses is around 2\,400. Everything must be ready by 09:30 hrs. \n\n\n\nTimeProgram Alkmaar Cheese Market 20267:00 amPlacing the Cheeses | Trucks loaded with cheeses drive onto Waagplein\, where the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been held since its inception. Under the watchful eye of the market master\, the ‘setters’ arrange as much as 30\,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheeses in long rows on the still quiet Waagplein. That’s about 2\,400 cheeses! This must be completed by 9:30 am.9:30 amCheese Carriers | The cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Anyone who is late has to pay a fine\, which partly goes to a school in the town of ‘Alkmaar’ in Suriname.9:45 amCheese Father’s Roll Call | The head of the cheese carriers\, the ‘cheese father\,’ holds his roll call with the cheese carriers in the Waaggebouw. Are all the cheese carriers present? Are there any special matters on the market today? Which cheese carriers will work in which part of the Cheese Market?10:00 amThe Cheese Bell | At exactly 10:00 am\, the cheese bell is rung. This opens the cheese market to visitors. The honor of ringing the bell usually goes to a well-known Dutch celebrity or a relation of the Municipality of Alkmaar.From 10:00 amInspecting the Cheeses | After ringing the bell\, the inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping\, tasting\, and feeling them. A piece is taken from the cheese with a special cheese bore. The smell and elasticity of the piece of cheese that comes out of it indicate something about the fat content. They also look at the number of holes in the cheese; these should be perfectly distributed over the cheese.From 10:00 amThe Random Sample | Do you ever take a random sample? This term comes from the Cheese Market\, where the inspectors use a cheese bore to take a piece from the cheese to taste it.After a positive inspection\, the intense negotiation of the cheese price can begin. This is still done through the traditional method of ‘handjeklap\,’ which means ‘hand-clapping.’ The final handclap signifies the completion of the cheese sale.From 10:00 amWeighing the Cheese | Once a batch of cheese is sold\, the cheese carriers carry it on a berrie to the Weigh House. There\, the cheese is weighed by the so-called ‘tasman’ (bagman). Where does the name tasman come from? It refers to the bag around his waist\, where he keeps the collected money. The weighmaster ensures that the correct weight is billed to the buyer. After weighing\, the tasman stamps the wooden berrie.From 10:00 amCarrying the Cheese Away | When a batch of cheese has been weighed and sold\, the cheese carriers transport the cheeses across the market to the buyers’ trucks. Two cheese carriers carry the cheese on a berrie\, and more than 100 kilos of cheese are on it! It is quite an art to keep the cheese berrie steady while walking. The Cheese Carriers must walk in a certain rhythm\, which is called the ‘kaasdragersdribbel’ or ‘cheese carriers’ trot.’ This way\, the berrie hangs still between the cheese carriers.12:30 pmThrowing the Cheese | The ‘ingooiers’ load the last cheeses onto carts and take them to the buyers’ trucks in Marktstraat. The cheese disappears from Waagplein\, and in its place\, cozy terraces are set up. Maybe you’ve worked up an appetite for a cheese sandwich… The restaurants and cafes in and around Waagplein will be happy to help you!\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nHow to get to the Cheese Market in Alkmaar?\n\n\n\n                \n                    \n            Tour from Amsterdam\n            By car\n            By train\n                \n\nNew in 2026: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam\n\n\n\nA convenient way to experience the Alkmaar Cheese Market is via an organised half-day tour from Amsterdam. Perfect for visitors without a car or those looking for a relaxed and well-organised trip. \n\n\n\nTour schedule: \n\n\n\n\n08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam\n\n\n\n10:00 – Arrival at the Alkmaar Cheese Market\n\n\n\n12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Alkmaar at your own pace\n\n\n\nReceive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit\n\n\n\n14:00 – Departure from Alkmaar\n\n\n\n15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam\n\n\n\n\nPlaces are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDriving to Alkmaar is simple via the A9 highway. The city center is partially car-free\, so plan to park nearby: \n\n\n\n\nKanaalschiereiland Parking (P1) – Pettemerstraat 3\, 1823 CW Alkmaar\n\n\n\nP+R Bergermeer – Bergerweg 62\, 1817 MJ Alkmaar (Free parking + easy access to city center)\n\n\n\nParking Karperton (P5) – Bagijnenstraat 13\, 1811 KA Alkmaar (Closest to the market square)\n\n\n\n\n\nDirect trains run regularly from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar Station (approx. 35–40 minutes)\n\n\n\nFrom the station\, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Waagplein\n\n\n\n\nTrain ticketsPriceOne-Way Train Ticket Amsterdam – Alkmaar€ 9.40More info\n\n\n            \n\n\n\nLuxury day trip from Amsterdam \n\n\n\nAre you travelling from Amsterdam? Then the easiest way is to book a cheese day tour. This takes you directly from the centre of Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar. You will also visit a cheese farm in the Dutch countryside.
URL:https://dutchcountryside.com/event/alkmaar-cheese-market-3/2026-09-25/?lang=nl
LOCATION:Alkmaar Cheese Market\, Waagplein 2\, Alkmaar\, Noord Holland\, 1811JP\, Netherlands
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://dutchcountryside.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bigstock-217729630.jpg
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