During the Christmas period, Leiden transforms into a magical winter wonderland full of activities for all ages. For families with children, there are plenty of fun things to do. We've listed the highlights for you so you can make the most of these holidays.
1. Extended Shopping Hours during the Holidays
During the Christmas period, Leiden is the place to be! The entire city is decorated for Christmas and stores often have longer opening hours and are open on additional days. Shopping with the kids is even more fun during this time!
Tokkelientje: Extra Shopping Sundays
Tokkelientje has also scheduled extra shopping days during the holidays! Come and visit us on the following Sundays between 12:00 and 17:00:
- November 24, 2024
- December 1, 2024
- December 8, 2024
- December 15, 2024
- December 22, 2024
Please note that Tokkelientje is closed on official public holidays.
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2. Floating Ice Fun: The Ice Rink on the Nieuwe Rijn
From December 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025, you and your children can enjoy ice skating on a floating ice rink in the middle of the city. This unique outing offers the perfect combination of sport and fun. An absolute must-do! More information can be found at drijvendeijsbaanleiden.nl.
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3. Nostalgic Funfair on Stadhuisplein
From December 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025, a nostalgic funfair will be set up on Stadhuisplein, which we always love to visit. With a manageable selection, this funfair is ideal for the little ones. Guaranteed fun for the whole family!
Read here everything about this fun, nostalgic funfair!
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4. Family Christmas Military Tattoo
The Family Christmas Military Tattoo will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 18:00 to 20:30. This spectacular event on one of Leiden's most beautiful squares offers an evening full of music, singing, and show elements. Furthermore, all seating is covered, so you can comfortably enjoy the performances, regardless of the weather!
Here you will find all information about the Family Christmas Military Tattoo
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5. Nostalgic Christmas Market
Visit the nostalgic Christmas market on the Hooglandse Kerkgracht, open on December 14, 15, and 18 through 22, 2024. Stroll through an atmospheric winter village with chalets, food trucks, and a cozy terrace. Here you can soak up the real Christmas spirit while enjoying everything the entrepreneurs have to offer.
All information about this nostalgic Christmas market can be found here!
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6. Choir Weekends in the City Centre
From December 14, 15, and 18 through 22, 2024, Leiden city centre will be filled with the sounds of Christmas choirs. Enjoy a wide variety of musical styles, from classical madrigals to modern pop songs and traditional Christmas carols. The perfect musical accompaniment to a winter day.
More information can be found on the visitleiden.nl website
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7. Rotary Santa Run
Join the Rotary Santa Run on December 19, 2024, at 18:00. This cheerful event sees hundreds of Santas running through the city for charity. Participation is open to young and old and is a unique experience you won't want to miss.
Coming to watch the Santa Run is, of course, also great fun!
More information can be found on their website: rotarysantarunleiden.nl
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8. Grand Christmas Circus on the Lammermarkt
From December 25, 2024, to January 5, 2025, you and the whole family can enjoy the Grand Christmas Circus Leiden. The heated tent and enchanting Christmas atmosphere make this a wonderful outing during the Winter Wonder Weeks. Combine a visit to the circus with the other fun activities in the city for a complete day out.
For more information about the Winter Wonder Weeks, visit visitleiden.nl.
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Leiden has so much to offer this Christmas period that it's hard to choose what to do first. From ice skating and markets to spectacular shows and events, there's something for everyone.
Plan your fun day out in Leiden, put on warm clothes, and enjoy the magical Christmas atmosphere with your children during the Winter Wonder Weeks!
Have fun!
Love, Tokkelientje
