Event
Leiden’s Relief Festival 2026
Leiden’s largest city festival with parades, funfair, herring and white bread, hutspot and historical commemoration.
2 October 2026 – 3 October 2026
Hear, see and taste
Leiden commemorates its relief in 1574 through historic traditions and a major city celebration. Most headline activities take place on 2 and 3 October throughout the centre.
Many activities are free, while individual concerts and hospitality may charge. Expect road closures and very large crowds; travel by train or bus where possible and check the final programme before departure.
Explore more
Event
Galleria – twelve exhibitions in one
Summer museum experience at the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities bringing twelve small exhibitions under one roof.
Event
Leiden Open Monument Days 2026
More than thirty historic buildings open free of charge during Leiden’s 40th edition, with tours and activities.
Event
Pride Leiden Canal Parade 2026
Colourful canal parade through historic Leiden with music, public viewing spots and celebrations at Lammermarkt.
Event
Night of Discoveries 2026
Evening festival of art and science across the Hortus, Pieterskerk, Old Observatory and university buildings around Rapenburg.
Event
Leiden Art Route 2026
Free weekend in which 165 studios, galleries and art projects open their doors to contemporary visual art.
Event
Leiden International Film Festival 2026
Eleven days of premieres, international cinema, special screenings and parties during LIFF’s 21st edition.
Event
Leiden Comics Festival 2026
Free comics fair in Hooglandse Kerk with artists, book launches, over 150 metres of market stalls, talks and a children’s area.
Event
Día de Muertos at Wereldmuseum Leiden
Autumn holiday programme about Mexico’s Day of the Dead, with papel picado and calaveras craft activities.