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Illuminated Ferris wheel of the Leidens Ontzet funfair reflected in a Leiden canal at night

Leidens Ontzet: 3 October, the biggest festival in Leiden

On 3 October 1574 Leiden was relieved: the Spanish siege was broken and the starving city was free. Ever since, the city celebrates and commemorates that day as Leidens Ontzet, the oldest and busiest folk festival in the Netherlands, organised by the 3 October Vereeniging.

Leidens Ontzet traditions: hutspot, herring and white bread

Musician with a bugle in a marching band during the Leidens Ontzet tattoo in Leiden
The evening tattoo on 2 October
  • Hutspot distribution: free stew, referring to the pots the Spanish left behind.
  • Herring and white bread, the food the Sea Beggars brought the starving city.
  • The commemoration service in the Pieterskerk, held since 1574.
  • A funfair across the centre, the market, and the Grand Parade (since 1886).

Programme of Leidens Ontzet on 2 and 3 October

Visitors at a colourful carousel on the Leidens Ontzet funfair in the centre of Leiden
The funfair fills the old town for days
  • 2 October: choral singing, the evening tattoo and the funfair across the old town.
  • 3 October: hutspot distribution plus herring and white bread.
  • 3 October: commemoration service in the Pieterskerk and the Grand Parade.
  • Both days: market stalls, music stages and terraces late into the night.
  • The full programme and the official app are on 3october.nl.

Practical information

  • When: every year on 2 and 3 October, whatever the weekday.
  • Admission: free, but the city draws hundreds of thousands of visitors.
  • Leiden hotels sell out months ahead — book very early.
  • Travel by train; large parts of the centre are closed to cars.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Leiden celebrate 3 October?
On that day in 1574 the Spanish siege of Leiden was broken and the starving city was liberated.
When is Leidens Ontzet?
Every year on 2 and 3 October, whatever the day of the week. The 2nd features the tattoo and funfair; the 3rd is the main day with hutspot, herring and white bread, the commemoration service and the Grand Parade.
Is Leidens Ontzet free?
Yes, the festival is free to attend. The funfair, market, parade and hutspot distribution are all open to everyone. Only food, drinks and carnival rides are paid.
How do I get to Leidens Ontzet?
Take the train to Leiden Centraal. Large parts of the city centre are closed to cars during the event. From the station it is a 10-minute walk to the main squares and the funfair.
Where should I stay during Leidens Ontzet?
Hotels in Leiden sell out months in advance. Book early, or stay in nearby cities such as The Hague, Amsterdam or Haarlem and travel by train.
What food is typical on 3 October?
Hutspot (a carrot-onion-potato stew), herring and white bread are the traditional foods. You can get free hutspot at distribution points and buy herring and white bread from stalls.
Is Leidens Ontzet suitable for children?
Yes, there is a large funfair, music and a family-friendly atmosphere. Expect crowds, so keep children close and agree on a meeting point.
What time does the Grand Parade start?
The Grand Parade usually starts around 14:30 on 3 October. Check the official 3october.nl programme for exact timings, as they can change.
Where does the commemoration service take place?
In the Pieterskerk in the centre of Leiden. The service has been held there since 1574 and is open to the public, though it can be very busy.
Can I bring a dog?
Dogs are allowed in many outdoor areas, but the crowds, loud music and funfair make it stressful for animals. Keep dogs on a short lead and avoid the busiest spots.
What happens if it rains?
Leidens Ontzet goes ahead in almost any weather. Bring a raincoat and comfortable shoes. Some indoor programme parts, such as the Pieterskerk service, offer shelter.