Festival in Leiden, Netherlands

Every year, there’s one day that all Leiden residents look forward to, Leidens Ontzet (Relief of Leiden). The 3 October Festival also Leidens Ontzet is a festival in Leiden, the Netherlands. It is held annually during the days leading up to the 3rd and often concludes that evening or the following day. It has been a local tradition since 1886.

It might be the only day that Leiden’s large student population intermingles with the locals, as they sing the Leiden anthem or the October 3 song of ‘Rubberen Robbie’ together in brotherly love.

The Leids Ontzet is a party. One hell of a party. For two whole days (the festival starts on the second of October), the city turns into a gigantic funfair. There are performers everywhere, and everyone is talking, laughing and singing along with some candy and a glass of beer in their hands. At least, that is when you look at this scene with an untrained eye. When you look a little closer, you will understand this special day in Leiden is all about tradition. It holds a very important place in the hearts of the local ‘Leienaren’.