3 October Festival

The 3 October Festival in Leiden, Netherlands, is a vibrant annual celebration that commemorates the city's liberation on October 3rd, 1574, during the Eighty Years' War. This cherished tradition, ongoing since 1886, features a variety of engaging activities leading up to the main event.

The festival includes an evening parade, a lively carnival, captivating theatrical performances, historical reenactments, and a solemn memorial service. One of the festival's highlights is the distribution of herring and white bread, symbolizing the food that sustained Leiden’s citizens during the siege.

Another culinary delight offered is hutspot, a hearty stew that represents the food found in the abandoned camp of the Spanish troops. The day is packed with festivities and concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The festival is a beloved part of Leiden's cultural heritage, with Leiden University itself being founded as a reward for the citizens' bravery during the siege.

However, in recent years, some locals and business owners have voiced concerns about the festival. Issues such as public drunkenness, fights, vandalism, littering, noise, and high prices at the carnival have led some businesses to close during the event. There have also been protests over the fees for hosting festival-related activities. Despite these challenges, the 3 October Festival remains a significant cultural event, attracting both locals and tourists eager to celebrate Leiden's history and spirit.