The grand Sint Joep Market in Sittard has become a household name for most people in the region and beyond. It is one of the largest and most bustling markets in the entire Netherlands. But who exactly is ‘Sint Joep’, and what does Napoleon have to do with our Limburgish market? Read on to find out.

Who is Sint Joep?

It might come as a surprise, but the market isn’t officially named after ‘Sint Joep’, but after Saint Joseph. ‘Sint Joep’ is simply the local Limburgish name for him. Saint Joseph has played a vital role in Sittard as the patron saint of miners, families, carpenters, education, and those in need. This historical connection is still visible throughout the city today; it explains names like the ‘Sint Jozef Church’, ‘Sint Jozef College’, the ‘Harmonie Sint Joseph’, and even ‘Scouting Sint Jozef’. If you look closely, you’ll see that much of Sittard is still deeply connected to Saint Joseph, even in 2026.

2. When is the Sint Joep Market?

Tradition dictates that the market is always held on March 19th, the feast day of Saint Joseph. The event runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

3. What does Napoleon have to do with our market?

The very first Sint Joep Market took place on March 19, 1803, after the mayor of Sittard received indirect permission from Napoleon Bonaparte (via the French authorities) to host the annual event. ‘Why did we need Napoleon’s permission?’ I hear you ask. Well, in 1803, Limburg was occupied by France. The area had been conquered in 1794/1795 and was formally annexed to the French Republic. French rule lasted until 1814.

4. What did the market look like in the past?

The market originally started as a livestock market, so alongside the visitors, you would find plenty of horses, cows, and pigs. Horses were essential for farm work, while cows and pigs were traded for dairy and meat. Despite these rustic roots, there has always been a focus on ‘flavor and fun’. The market has always been a social hub with a great atmosphere, lively terraces, and a musical line-up that has evolved through the years.

“Flavor and fun.”

5. How many editions have there been?

On March 19, 2026, the market will celebrate its 221st edition.

6. Grand pride with a ‘Soft G’.

We can be incredibly proud that an event like Sint Joep takes place in our beautiful province of Limburg. It is the largest annual market in the Netherlands, with over 5 kilometers of stalls winding through the historic city center. While the exact number of vendors varies each year, there are always hundreds of stalls—often well over 300!

7. The King of Sint Joep.

Every year, a street vendor (or ‘pitchman’) is chosen and crowned ‘King of Sint Joep’ by a jury and the municipality. They look for someone who brings the best atmosphere, an outstanding and original presentation, and clever sales techniques. In 2025, John Gruter took the title with his ‘Blije voetencrème’ (Happy Foot Cream), working his magic and putting smiles on the faces of everyone at his stall. Thanks to his ‘Wheel of Fortune’, he scored high on originality. Having won the title multiple times, John is a formidable—and fun—presence at the market.

8. How many people visit the market?

Because the market is such a cornerstone of the community, it draws massive crowds. Every year, tens of thousands of people attend, coming from the local area but also from further away in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. In 2022, an estimated 70,000 people visited Sint Joep.

“70.000 people visited Sint Joep.”

9. The start of spring.

The Sint Joep Market is all about the new season. It is seen as the ultimate kickoff to spring, often accompanied by the first mild, sunny days of the year.

10. Parking in Sittard.

Planning to take a look for yourself? There are plenty of parking lots and garages in Sittard, but they fill up fast due to the massive crowds. Be sure to arrive extra early if you want to park close by. If you’re coming later in the day, we highly recommend using public transport. Sittard’s train and bus station is located right on the edge of the city center. After a few minutes’ walk through the shopping streets, you’ll find yourself on the market square, surrounded by bustling cafes and stalls. The image below provides an overview of available parking locations.