Are you planning to visit Leiden in 2026 or just don't want to miss anything in your own city? Leiden will again be packed in the first half of 2026 culture, festivals, music, sport and history. From major exhibitions to unique city festivals, these are the 10 best events in Leiden from January to June 2026 that you want to put in your diary.
Tip 1: Leiden Blues & Jazz Week (19 - 25 January 2026)
For a whole week, Leiden is all about live music, with performances in cafés, theatres and at surprising locations in the city. From intimate jazz sessions to solid blues: the entire city centre turns into one big music stage.
Tip 2: Rather in Leiden Restaurant Week (31 January - 8 February 2026)
During this popular restaurant week, you go out to eat “blind” at one of the participating restaurants in Leiden. The way to discover new hotspots and be culinarily surprised.
Tip 3: Leiden Winter Beer Festival (8 February 2026)
In the heart of Leiden, sample the tastiest winter and speciality beers at this festival. A cosy event for lovers of local, craft and special beer.
Tip 4: Leids Cabaret Festival (9 - 14 February 2026)
The Leids Cabaret Festival is the place to discover new cabaret talent. Expect a week full of humour, sharp observations and surprising performances in the Leiden Schouwburg.
Tip 5: Peel Slowly and See Festival (20 - 21 March 2026)
This quirky music festival is known for its surprising programming and intimate atmosphere. You will discover new artists and special acts at different venues around the city.
Tip 6: Jan Steen 400 - Life in the brewery (from 2 April 2026)
At Museum De Lakenhal, Leiden is marking 400 years of Jan Steen with a major anniversary exhibition. You will dive into the world of humour, satire and hidden messages of one of Leiden's most famous painters.
Tip 7: Leiden Marathon (9 May 2026)
The Leiden Marathon is one of the most beautiful running events in the Netherlands, with routes right through the historic city centre. Whether you participate or stand along the side: it is a sporting spectacle for the whole city.
Tip 8: Leidse Hofjes Festival (24 & 25 May 2026)
During this unique festival, Leiden's most beautiful courtyards open their doors to top-class concerts. A special combination of music, heritage and hidden places in the city.
Tip 9: Museum Night Leiden (6 June 2026)
On this evening, Leiden's museums open their doors late into the night with a special programme full of art, music and performances. The perfect way to experience culture in Leiden for a change. Tip
Tip 10: Leiden Cloth Festival (26, 27 & 28 June 2026)
The Lakenfeesten are Leiden's big summer festival, with events on and around the water. Including the Peurbakkentocht, the Grachtenconcert, Dragonboat Races and De Tafel van Leiden, this is three days of enjoyment.
Either whether you love culture, music, sports or socialising: Leiden will again have a full and diverse events calendar in 2026. Plan your visit smartly, combine an event with a city tour and discover the city with different eyes.
👉 Want to really get to know Leiden? Then check out our city walks at ExploreLeiden.co.uk and be taken through the city's best stories.
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