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DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR… IT’S ALMOST TIME! ✨
SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025!
What started as a one-time enchanting moment has grown into an annual tradition that many eagerly anticipate: the X-MAS Lighting Event at Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis Gouda.
Every year, we add something new, something magical. With more lights, more warmth, more wonder. Because to us, tradition doesn’t mean repetition—it means coming together again and again to create something truly special.
WHAT IS THE X-MAS LIGHTING EVENT?
Literally? The lighting of thousands of twinkling lights on the historic façade of Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis Gouda. But by now, it’s become so much more than that: a warm, festive evening that marks the official start of the holiday season—together.
This year, we’ll kick things off at De Zalm Foodbar, where you’ll be welcomed with a glass of mulled wine (because nothing warms you up quite like that). Indoors or outdoors? That depends on the weather—but either way, we’ll make it cozy and atmospheric!
Next, we’ll take a short winter walk to the Museumcafé, where something delicious awaits.
From the Museumcafé, we’ll stroll over to the Weeshuis for the highlight of the evening: the countdown. Together, we’ll raise our glasses and toast as thousands of lights illuminate the night. For some, it’s a cherished annual tradition; for others, it might be their very first time—but for everyone, it’s the magical start of the most wonderful time of the year.
Want to make your evening even more special?
Scroll down to discover two extra experiences we’ve created to treat yourself (or someone you love) to an unforgettable night. Think delicious food, staying a little longer, and simply enjoying the moment even more.
HOW TO MAKE IT EVEN MORE SPECIAL?
In addition to the regular “The XMAS Lighting Ceremony”, we offer two extra experiences:
The COCO XMAS Lighting Ceremony
Before the main event, we’ll serve our lavish “COCO’S XMAS Elisabeth Sisi Afternoon Tea” in the historic Regent Room. Afterwards, you’re invited to join the lighting festivities.
The WSHS All Over XMAS Lighting Ceremony (VIP)
For a truly unforgettable and romantic evening, 40 guests (first come, first served) can stay for an exclusive dinner at LIZZ after the event. Chef Remco Kuijpers and his team will share their “winter romance” through a beautifully crafted 3-course menu.
What an incredible response!
This option (including dinner at LIZZ) sold out in no time. We love seeing how excited you are—it means the world to us!
Fortunately, there are still spots available for the other XMAS Lighting Event experiences—explore them below!
Choose a package (click the arrows)
The XMAS Lighting Ceremony
22.50 per person
🕯️ Welcome at De Zalm
Of course, we’ll greet you with a glass of mulled wine (because that’s the perfect way to warm up). Indoors or outdoors? That depends on the weather—but either way, we’ll make it cozy and atmospheric!
🕯️ Winter walk to the Museumcafé
Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate in the romantic garden!
🕯️ Lighting Ceremony at Weeshuis
We’ll stroll over to the Weeshuis for the highlight of the evening: the countdown. Together, we’ll raise our glasses and toast as thousands of lights come to life. For some, it’s already a beloved tradition; for others, maybe the very first time—but for everyone, it marks the beginning of the most magical time of the year!
The COCO XMAS Lighting Ceremony
69.50 per person
✨ COCO’S XMAS Elizabeth Sissi Afternoon Tea
Start your afternoon in true holiday spirit with a festive high tea in the charming Regent Room. This year, we’re taking you on a romantic journey to Vienna. Think velvet-soft cakes, playful details, and a touch of imperial mischief.
Our brand-new Afternoon Tea is inspired by the iconic Empress Elisabeth “Sissi” of Austria. Expect refined pâtisserie, Viennese grandeur, and a hint of glamorous rebellion.
✨ Welcome at De Zalm
Naturally, we’ll welcome you with a glass of mulled wine (because that’s what warms us right up). Indoors or outdoors? That depends on the weather—but either way, we’ll make it cozy and inviting!
🕯️ Winter walk to the MuseumCafé
Enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate in the romantic garden.
✨ Lighting Ceremony at the Weeshuis
We’ll continue our stroll to the Weeshuis for the highlight of the evening: the countdown. Together, we’ll raise our glasses and toast as thousands of twinkling lights are switched on. For some, a cherished tradition; for others, perhaps the very first time—but for everyone, the magical start of the most wonderful time of the year!
The WSHS All Over XMAS Lighting Ceremony (VIP)
97.50 per person
SOLD OUT
For the ultimate romantic Christmas experience — including the ceremony and a culinary highlight to end the evening in style.
🎅🏽 Welcome at De Zalm
Naturally, we’ll welcome you with a glass of mulled wine (because that’s what warms us up). Indoors or outdoors? That depends on the weather — either way, we’ll make it cozy and inviting!
🎅🏽 Winter walk to the Museumcafé
Enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate in the romantic garden.
🎅🏽 Lighting Ceremony at Weeshuis
We’ll stroll on to the Weeshuis, where the moment arrives: together, we’ll count down, raise our glasses, and toast as thousands of lights twinkle to life. For some, already a beloved tradition; for others, maybe the first time — but for everyone, it’s the magical beginning of the most wonderful time of the year!
🎅🏽 Dinner at restaurant LIZZ*
After the Christmas lights, enjoy an exclusive 3-course dinner at restaurant LIZZ, specially created by Michelin chef Remco Kuijpers.
This VIP package offers a one-of-a-kind evening full of festive magic and refined gastronomy.
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