October 3rd is a holiday in Leiden commemorating the lifting of the Spanish siege in 1574. It is huge party and everyone is invited. Festivities include a parade in which the LGBTQ community never fails to participate. It is two days of turning the city into organized chaos. It is rumored that some people hate it but most "Leidenaars" look forward to these days of rubbing shoulders with their fellow citizens, stepping outside their usual social circle.