Step back in time and witness a true Dutch tradition in the heart of Edam. Every Wednesday morning during summer, the charming village of Edam transforms into a lively historical scene filled with local customs, colorful costumes, and of course – cheese. This unique open-air event is a family-friendly highlight and a perfect introduction to the cheese-making culture of the Netherlands.
What to Expect at the Edam Cheese Market
The Edam Cheese Market is not just a market – it’s a theatrical re-enactment of how cheese was traded in the 17th and 18th centuries. The experience is both authentic and entertaining, with volunteers, locals, and cheese porters recreating the atmosphere of days gone by.
Here’s what makes the Edam Cheese Market so special:
- Cheese carriers in traditional costume transporting wheels of cheese on wooden barrows
- Handjeklap – the classic hand-slapping negotiation between farmers and traders
- Weighing of the cheese inside the historical Weigh House (Kaaswaag)
- Arrival of the cheese by canal boat or horse-drawn cart
- Bell ringing ceremony that opens and closes the market, often performed by a guest of honor
Edam Cheese Market Dates & Times – Summer 2025
The Edam Cheese Market takes place on Wednesdays from 2 July to 20 August 2025, between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. On Saturday 9 August 2025, a festive evening cheese market takes place from 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM, with romantic canal lighting and a warm summer ambiance.
| Edam Cheese Market | Weekday | Opening hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 July 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 9 July 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 16 July 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 23 July 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 30 July 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 6 August 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 9 August 2025 | Saturday | 20:30 – 22:00 | Evening Market |
| 13 August 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Regular Market |
| 20 August 2025 | Wednesday | 10:30 – 12:30 | Final Market |
Getting to the Edam Cheese Market
The Edam Cheese Market takes place at Jan van Nieuwenhuizenplein, in front of the historic Weigh House (Kaaswaag) in the center of Edam.
New in 2025: Book a direct tour from Amsterdam
A convenient way to experience the Edam 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.
Tour schedule:
- 08:30 – Departure from Amsterdam
- 10:00 – Arrival at the Edam Cheese Market
- 12:00 – 14:00 – Free time to explore Edam at your own pace
- Receive a map with highlights and tips to help you get the most out of your visit
- 14:00 – Departure from Edam
- 15:30 – Arrival back in Amsterdam
Places are limited so book your tickets in time. Check current availability and prices below and book your tickets easily.
- From Amsterdam: take the A10 north, then the N247 towards Edam
- Parking is clearly signposted near the event area
- From Amsterdam Central Station: take EBS bus 314 to Edam bus station – the market is just a short walk from there
Tips for Visiting the Edam Cheese Market
- Free admission – everyone is welcome
- Combine your trip with nearby Volendam or a countryside bike ride
- Visit the Edam Cheese Experience to dive deeper into Edam’s cheese history
- Arrive early for the best views and photos