What is Leidens Ontzet?

Leidens Ontzet (Relief of Leiden) is celebrated every year on October 3rd in the city of Leiden, Netherlands, to commemorate the siege of 1574 during the Eighty Years’ War, when the city of Leiden was liberated from Spanish forces. This historic event marked a turning point in the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. The celebration honors the bravery and resilience of the citizens of Leiden, who withstood months of deprivation until the siege was broken by the forces of William of Orange, flooding the region and forcing the Spanish to retreat.

Leidens Ontzet is a joyous, city-wide festival filled with traditions, parades, fireworks, music, and food. It is a day of unity and pride for the people of Leiden, celebrating not only the relief of their city but also the Dutch spirit of freedom and independence.

History and Origin

The celebration dates back to October 3, 1574, when after a long and grueling siege by the Spanish army, the people of Leiden were saved by a clever military tactic. The Dutch, under the leadership of William of Orange, broke the dikes surrounding the city, flooding the lands and allowing Dutch rebel forces to sail into the city. The Spanish army, unable to hold their ground in the flooded terrain, was forced to withdraw, bringing an end to the siege.

The legend goes that the first thing the Dutch rebel forces brought to the starving citizens was a pot of hutspot (a traditional Dutch stew) and herring with white bread, both of which have since become central to the annual celebration. The citizens of Leiden commemorated their relief with celebrations and a thanksgiving service at Pieterskerk, a tradition that continues to this day. Leidens Ontzet has been celebrated ever since, growing in scale and significance.

Who Observes Leidens Ontzet?

• Citizens of Leiden: The people of Leiden take part in city-wide celebrations, which include parades, festivals, concerts, and traditional foods.
• Local Government and Organizations: The Leiden city government and local historical societies organize official ceremonies and events, including speeches and commemorations at significant landmarks like the Pieterskerk.
• Families and Children: Families, particularly children, enjoy carnival rides, games, and sweets, which are an integral part of the festivities.
• Schools and Universities: Leiden’s educational institutions, including Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, often hold special lectures or events focused on the historical significance of the siege.
• Visitors: Many visitors from around the Netherlands and beyond come to Leiden to participate in the lively celebrations and experience Dutch culture and history firsthand.

Slogans and Themes

Leidens Ontzet focuses on themes of freedom, resilience, and unity. Slogans like “Leiden Lacht, Leiden Huilt” (Leiden laughs, Leiden cries) reflect the emotional journey of the city’s inhabitants during the siege and subsequent relief. The celebration embodies the Dutch spirit of independence and pride in overcoming adversity.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• Red, White, and Blue: Representing the colors of the Dutch flag, symbolizing national pride and the historical significance of the relief.
• Orange: A tribute to William of Orange, who played a pivotal role in the city’s liberation.
• White and Blue: The colors often associated with Leiden’s traditional flags and banners used during the festival.

Symbols:

• Hutspot: A symbol of survival and victory, hutspot (a hearty stew made of potatoes, carrots, and onions) represents the food that was first given to the citizens after the relief.
• Herring and White Bread: Another symbolic dish, traditionally eaten on this day, commemorating the food the Dutch rebels brought to the starving city.
• Key of Leiden: Representing the city’s freedom and autonomy, the key is a traditional emblem of Leiden, often used in decorations and artwork during the celebration.

Patterns:

• Wave or Water Motifs: Reflecting the flood that played a crucial role in liberating the city, water motifs are often seen in decorations and floats during the parade.
• Windmill Designs: As an iconic Dutch symbol, windmills often feature in festivities and artwork, reflecting the historical landscape of the Netherlands.
• Striped Banners: Traditional red, white, and blue banners are hung throughout the city during the festival, symbolizing national pride.

Most Used Hashtags

• #LeidensOntzet
• #3OktoberLeiden
• #Leiden1574
• #LeidensFeest
• #LeidenHistory

How to Participate in Leidens Ontzet

• Attend the Festival in Leiden: Experience the city’s vibrant festivities, from carnival rides to parades and concerts. The entire city comes alive with music, fireworks, and food stalls offering traditional dishes.
• Eat Traditional Foods: Join the locals in enjoying hutspot, herring, and white bread, traditional foods associated with the relief of Leiden.
• Visit Pieterskerk: Attend the special service at Pieterskerk, a longstanding tradition that honors the city’s liberation and those who fought for it.
• Watch the Fireworks: One of the highlights of Leidens Ontzet is the fireworks display, which illuminates the city and draws thousands of spectators.
• Learn About Leiden’s History: Take part in educational tours or attend lectures on the history of the siege and the city’s role in the Dutch War of Independence, offered by local museums and institutions.

Importance of Leidens Ontzet

Leidens Ontzet is important because it celebrates Leiden’s resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, serving as a powerful reminder of the city’s role in the Dutch fight for independence. The event highlights the value of unity, freedom, and perseverance, which are central to Dutch national identity. For the people of Leiden, it is a day of pride, cultural heritage, and remembrance, reminding them of the strength and sacrifices of their ancestors.

In addition to its historical significance, the festival fosters community spirit, bringing together residents and visitors in a joyous celebration of Leiden’s rich history. It is one of the most important annual cultural events in the Netherlands and showcases the enduring significance of the city’s past.