Summer in Leiden is a celebration every year. The city comes alive with festivals, cultural highlights and atmospheric activities on and around the canals. As a city guide with Explore Leiden, I know: this city bursts with energy as soon as the sun shines.
Are you curious What to do in Leiden in the summer of 2025? In this blog, I share the best summer activities and events in Leiden.
Leiden is not only historic, but also innovative. During Dutch Bio Science Week, you will discover all about the latest developments in health, biotechnology and sustainability. A must for curious visitors and professionals.
Leiden Cloth Festival 2025 (4 to 7 July)
One of the biggest summer events in Leiden. Enjoy live music, markets, children's activities and the famous Peurbakkentocht. The entire city centre turns into a festive setting.
Leiden Culinair 2025 (5 and 6 July at Boisotkade - New location!)
Enjoy top dishes, wines and cocktails from Leiden hospitality businesses in an atmospheric new location on the Boisotkade. Perfect for foodies and lovers of cosy summer evenings by the water.
Peurbakkentocht Leiden (July 4, 2025)
A colourful procession of decorated boats festively sail through Leiden's canals. Grab a spot on the waterfront and be surprised by the creativity of the participants.
Leidse Grachtenconcert (July 6)
Experience classical music from a floating stage in the middle of Leiden's most beautiful canal, Het Rapenburg. A unique summer concert in a breathtaking setting. Take a seat on a boat or at the quay and get carried away.
Leiden Rembrandt Days (12 & 13 July 2025)
Follow in the footsteps of Rembrandt van Rijn at this lively event in the Pieterskwartier. Meet artisans, artists and extras in period clothing. A living history book!
Werfpop Festival Leiden (July 13, 2025)
The free pop festival in Leidse Hout attracts thousands of visitors every year. From rock to dance: Werfpop is the music festival of Leiden.
Pride Leiden 2025 (September 6)
Celebrate love in all colours of the rainbow with the boat parade, performances and festive activities throughout the city. Pride Leiden grows every year and is a celebration for everyone.
👣 Tip: discover Leiden with a local city guide
Between all these events, there is one way to really get to know the city: with a city walk through Leiden. At Explore Leiden we take you past hidden courtyards, historic buildings and, of course, great anecdotes. With a local guide, you will discover the city as you have never seen it before.
EN