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Visit Leiden
Stage on a boat in a Leiden canal during the Lakenfeesten

Leidse Lakenfeesten — celebrate Leiden on and along the water

Every June the old centre of Leiden turns into one large festival site. The Lakenfeesten recall the cloth industry that made the city rich, and they take place exactly where that story began: on the canals and the quays.

What to expect

  • Free stages on pontoons in the Nieuwe Rijn canal and on the squares.
  • The Peurbakkentocht: a parade of decorated and illuminated boats.
  • Street theatre, markets and terraces along the quays.
  • Programmes about the cloth trade and the Lakenhal museum.

Practical information for visiting 3 October in Leiden

  • When: every year in June, usually across a long weekend.
  • Admission: free; a few on-the-water activities are ticketed.
  • Come by train — the festival area is walkable from Leiden Centraal.
  • Best spots: the Nieuwe Rijn, Hooglandse Kerkgracht and Beestenmarkt.

Frequently asked questions

When are the Leidse Lakenfeesten?
Every year in June. The exact weekend varies, so check the programme shortly before your visit.
What is the Peurbakkentocht?
An evening parade of decorated boats through Leiden's canals, one of the festival's best-known highlights.