Romain De Vidtspark

Romain De Vidtspark is a city park in Sint-Niklaas, one of the larger towns in the Belgian province of East Flanders. Located in the southern part of the city center, it is one of the most popular green spaces in Sint-Niklaas, valued equally by locals and visitors.

Where does the park's name come from?

The park is named after Romain De Vidts, the mayor of Sint-Niklaas whose initiative turned the site into a public recreational area. The land now occupied by the park once belonged to the estate surrounding Walburg Castle. In 1949, on the initiative of the then mayor, the property was expropriated with the goal of creating a park open to all residents of the city. The park opened to the public in 1952, and its name honors the man responsible for bringing it into being.

What does the park look like and in what style was it designed?

Romain De Vidtspark was laid out in the style of an English garden, meaning it favors a relaxed, naturalistic arrangement of paths, clusters of trees and open grassy clearings rather than a formal, geometric layout. This gives a walk through the park the feel of exploring a natural landscape rather than moving through a symmetrical, planned garden. Walburg Castle, around which the original estate once stretched, still stands within the park grounds today and remains its historical anchor point.

What can visitors do in the park?

The park functions as a green oasis right in the middle of the city and is a popular spot for relaxation. Its many trees provide plenty of shade, making it especially appealing on warm days, whether for a walk or a picnic on the grass. The park also features a water feature with a fountain, which adds character to the space and serves as a well-known meeting point. Families with children will find a playground on site, making the park a draw for visitors of all ages.

Does the park host any events?

Yes. Every summer, Romain De Vidtspark hosts park festivals as part of the summer events organized in Sint-Niklaas, locally known as Parkies. These are recurring music festivals that draw both residents and visitors to the park, turning the green space into an open-air concert venue. As a result, the park serves not only as an everyday recreational space but also as a local cultural stage during the summer months.

Who is this place for?

Romain De Vidtspark suits anyone looking for a quiet spot for a walk or a rest in the shade of trees, families with children who can make use of the playground, and, in summer, anyone hoping to enjoy live music outdoors during the Parkies festivals. It's also a good place to pause while exploring Sint-Niklaas and to see Walburg Castle set within green surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the park located? The park lies in the southern part of Sint-Niklaas's city center, along Zeildoekstraat.

When was the park created? The land was expropriated in 1949, and the park opened to the public in 1952.

What else can be found in the park besides greenery? Walburg Castle stands within the park grounds, along with a fountain and a children's playground.

Are events held in the park? Yes, summer music festivals known as Parkies take place there.