Although I have written about the Leidens Ontzet elsewhere, I can't find anything in the Trippist archives on this festival. Leidens Ontzet, or the third of October, is a celebration of the people of Leiden's defeat of the Spanish in 1574. Lots of cities mark similar occasions, but the people of Leiden go all out.

There are a variety of celebrations of all types, like parades, choirs, and exhibitions. All of these events are packed with locals, because they get the day off from work. But the one I'm the most intimately familiar with is the funfair that takes over parts of the city center. I'm lucky (unlucky?) enough to live right in the middle of the chaos.

I leave you with a few images of this event that just ended on Monday. Perhaps in the future if you're heading to Leiden this is a good time to visit, so you can see it with your own eyes. They haven't stopped celebrating since 1574, so I doubt the festivities will disappear anytime soon.