Newsletter
December 2023

Winter Hotspots in the Leiden Region 

As we enter the coldest months of the year, there is nothing better than a warm drink and tasty bites to warm you up. Check out winter hotspots in the Leiden region! 

Time to Change Your Health Insurance

Every December you are allowed to change your health insurance. Want to know more about what to take into consideration? Read this article to learn everything you need to know. 

In Search of a New Mayor 

Leiden is looking for a new mayor, and the Municipality wants to involve you in this process. What kind of mayor would you like? Fill in the survey to have your say! 

Workshop: Making Your Home More Energy Efficient

In collaboration with Leiden Municipality and Leiden International Centre, energy Coach Mazen Kara is organizing a free workshop for internationals on how to improve your home insulation and reduce your energy consumption.  

Dutch New Year's Day Traditions

Is it your first time experiencing New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in the Netherlands? Wondering how to participate in Dutch traditions? With this article you will soon become an expert and impress all your Dutch friends!

How Natalia Found Her Dream Job in Leiden

Originally from Moscow, Natalia Vtyurina moved to the Netherlands almost 12 years ago. Nowadays she lives in Leiden and works in the Leiden Bio Science Park. Read Natalia's success story and find out how she found her dream job in Leiden!

Car Ownership in the Netherlands: 11 Must-Knows  

How to Relocate With Your Children 

Investing in Dual Careers 

Family Migration With Young Adult Children 

Giving Is A Wonderful Thing To Do

December Meet&Mingle

7 December

Meet other internationals in the Leiden Region during our monthly gatherings. This time there is a little twist: put on your ugliest Christmas sweater and you might win a prize!

Georgian Cultural Exhibition

7 December

"Why Georgia Matters" seeks to unravel the threads of the country's history and culture. An introduction by the Georgian Embassy will be ​​followed by an art exhibition, music, and typical delights. 

Floating Ice Rink

9 December to 7 January

Everyone can enjoy the beautiful Christmas track on the Nieuwe Rijn again! From a kettle curling tournament to low-stimulus ice skating, everything is possible this year!

Christmas Market in Zoeterwoude-Dorp

10 December 

Visit the annual Christmas market by St. Jan's Fanfare at the Muziekcentrum in Zoeterwoude-Dorp!

December Buzz Business Networking

11 December

Struggle to price with confidence? Business coach and mentor Susanne Harrison is on a mission to help, support, and coach small businesses. Join the webinar!

Expeditie Leerkracht

13 December

For all internationals who (want to) work in education: you are invited to immerse yourself in the Dutch education system with this two-day workshop. Find out what it is like to be in front of a classroom!  

Nostalgic Christmas Market

13 to 17 December

The cosy Nostalgic Christmas Market in Leiden on the Hooglandse Kerkgracht is back! Visit the wooden chalets full of nice Christmas presents and food trucks with tasty winter snacks.

Rotary Santa Run

14 December

The Rotary Santa Run Leiden is a fun walk of about 4km in which 1574 participants, dressed as Santa Claus, walk a course through the inner city of Leiden for charity. 

Weekend of Choirs

16 to 17 December

A large number of choirs bring the centre of Leiden completely into the Christmas spirit.Enjoy wonderful pop songs, classical madrigals, shanties, musical songs, and traditional Christmas carols.  

Nostalgic Winter Fair

16 December to 7 January

A fun outing for the little ones. There will also be snacks & drinks for the parents this year at the cosy winter fair square. 

Looking for more?

Don't forget to keep an eye on our events page! We frequently update it with recommendations for what to do as an international in the Leiden region.