We might have a formed a habit. We really like Leiden, and we really like the Saturday market there. So, we went for the third time yesterday.. and we got a surprise. We bumped into the October 3 festival! We didn't know what it was--we were thinking maybe the Dutch like to start Oktoberfesting really early? There was beer and a fair with rides (big ones!), and lots and lots of fair food (waffles, fried balls dipped in sugar, candyyyyyyy). Live music. Happiness!
Come to find out, we were celebrating the Leiden liberation from the Spaniards in 1574. And the food that goes with that celebration? Hutspot!! It's a potato-carrot-meat mash that was left in a pot by the fleeing Spanish army. Today, you get to choose with or without meat :)
It was fun to see all of the festivities, but Leiden is also a beautiful town.
Lots of canals and good food, good shopping.. love the café culture too!
Maybe someone should decide to go to university there..
Who knew there was a festival?? Good Luck for you! Love the history!
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