Strips op de Markt

Strips op de Markt is an annual comic festival held in Gouda, bringing together comic enthusiasts, collectors, artists and curious visitors in the city’s historic centre. The event takes place around Gouda’s centuries-old town hall, traditionally on the first Sunday in May, and has been free to attend for 20 years. Its lively comic fair features dozens of stalls offering new and second-hand books across a wide range of genres, including European comics, graphic novels, manga and American comics.

Visitors can meet comic artists and have their albums personally illustrated, while special festival editions provide distinctive additions for collectors. A comic auction gives attendees the chance to bid on rare and sought-after items. The programme also includes cosplayers and the annual release of Gouds Stripbier, featuring a unique label drawn by that year’s guest of honour.

Strips op de Markt is organised by an enthusiastic volunteer team, supported by dozens of helpers on the day. The festival welcomes both dedicated fans and the wider public