How about time-traveling during the first weekend in June? No, seriously. What if I told you there’s a place where you can walk the streets of the 16th century, swap stories with villagers about the fishing town of ‘Haeringhen ende Wallevisch,’ or perhaps witness an escape attempt by prisoners from the watchful eyes of their guardians? Welcome to Kaeskoppenstad in Alkmaar, an event that quite literally, takes you back in time.
Now mark your calendars because this journey through time is only available one weekend a year — the first weekend of June to be precise, both Saturday and Sunday, from noon until 5 p.m. Have your phones charged, and your wonderment fueled up!
“This History comes to life! I was truly proud and delighted by all the beauty that has been made possible by so many involved and passionate people from Alkmaar.” — This apt feedback from a visitor perfectly captures the spirit of Kaeskoppenstad.

Photo by https://kaeskoppenstad.nl/
As your foot first steps into this world of the past, you’ll immediately sense the authenticity. The city center of Alkmaar morphs back into its old self — d’Oude Stad from 1573, right after the infamous Siege of Alkmaar. Here, every detail bears the touch of the 16th century, from traditionally washed clothes hanging to dry to the vendors selling fresh flowers and occasional shoe cleaners sprinting by.
One moment, enjoy a chit-chat with locals about the quaint fishing villages of ‘Haeringhen ende Wallevisch,’ and with the turn of a corner, find yourself in a completely different scene where a plague breakout might have occurred! Can you taste the air of anticipation yet?
The beauty of Kaeskoppenstad lies not just in the event itself, but also in the setting. The historical backdrop of Alkmaar — with its rich tapestry of facades, bridges, and canals — so beautifully complements the event that you momentarily might forget what era you’re actually in. Are you ready to embark on this time trip?
Now don’t think it’s all spectating; there’s plenty of hands-on fun too! Can you resist the allure of a classic carousel at the Waagplein or the thrill of gaming at Kaesino? It’s not merely about inhabiting a place; it’s about living a piece of history.
So, should I save you a spot on this unique journey into the past? Don’t forget to stay updated on all things Kaeskoppenstad by checking the website or following the page across social media platforms — Facebook and Instagram specifically.
Dressed in a cloak of fascinating history and packed with experience-rich activities, Kaeskoppenstad offers an unforgettable trip down memory lane. It’s more than an event: It’s a ticket to step back into the thrills and tales of the past. Sound like an adventure worth undertaking? I bet it does!
Details:
- When: Each year during the first weekend in June.
- Website: https://kaeskoppenstad.nl/english
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaeskoppenstad
- Entrance: in 2023, the tickets to enter Kaeskoppenstad cost € 4,75 (online) for adults or € 6 (at the box office). For children up to 12 years Kaeskoppenstad costs € 1.50. These prices are exclusive of € 1.50 administration costs per booking (online only). The box office is located in de Waagtoren at Waagplein during the event.
How to get there
Coming by car?
Alkmaar is a city that is easily reached by car. If you are coming from Haarlem or Amsterdam you can take the A9 to get to Alkmaar. If you are coming from Den Helder you can use the N9. Are you coming from Leeuwarden? Then you will need to continue driving on the A7, following Middenmeer. Take the turn to Alkmaar and then continue towards the center of Alkmaar.
In the city center of Alkmaar there are several locations where you can park your car in an underground car park. Follow the P-sign.
Coming by train?
This is very easy! Take the train to Alkmaar Central Station. From here you can follow the signs that say ‘Centrum’/’Waagplein’ or ‘Kaasmarkt’. It will be more or less a 10-minute walk to the entrance of Kaeskoppenstad which is located in the historic old city centre of Alkmaar.