Sint-Niklaas (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Grote Markt in Sint-Niklaas reopened on August 29, 2025, after renovations since May 2024. Final work includes 120 trees, grassy areas, with a spring 2026 grand opening; Claudia Dalman praised the revival.
As VRT News reported, the Grote Markt in Sint-Niklaas reopened yesterday, Aug 29, 2025, after months of major construction. The works are now largely finished, just in time for the Vredefeesten (Peace Festival) next weekend. An after-work party called “Back to the Grote Markt” was held to celebrate. City officials invited everyone to visit over the weekend to explore the renovated square.
“Not that much has changed, and we expected more greenery,”
Say Seppe, Ilan, and Yenko.
“With trees and the lawn, it will definitely create a completely different look.”
What changes were made during the Grote Markt renovation
Many visitors were pleased with the changes, though some noted that greenery was missing. Residents Bien, Christel, and Linda said the stalls and lack of trees made it hard to see the full picture. Local businesses around the Grote Markt were also relieved. For the first time in months, vendors could set up stalls to offer snacks and drinks to the public.
“It’s been a long time coming, and we’re happy to have the opportunity to be here,”
Says Claudia Dalman of Graanmaat.
“Last year, our turnover was down to half, so weekends like this are very welcome. We hope everyone gives it a try and the weather cooperates. The turnout tonight is already exceptionally positive, and there’s definitely a great atmosphere.”
The Grote Markt will be full of activity this weekend. Visitors can walk among the market stalls and fair attractions all day long. People who want to know more about the square’s changes can join guided tours. These walks will explain the work done in the renovation and how the historic square is being transformed.
Children will have their own area, the children’s village, with shows by popular characters like Bumba, Plop, and Nachtwacht. The Studio 100 choir will also perform there. On Sunday morning, Aug 31, 2025, the city will give residents a free breakfast while supplies last. The city balloon will take off from the square as a preview for the Peace Festival.
The Grote Markt renovation was planned to finish 2 months ago, but the project was delayed, which often happens with large infrastructure works. Most of the main work is done, allowing the Vredefeesten festival to take place as scheduled. After the festival, the final work will continue.
An area with grass will be added, and there will be approximately 120 trees and plants added. The completion date is expected to be in late November 2025. The square will be officially opened in the spring of 2026.
The Grote Markt in Sint-Niklaas has been undergoing a major renovation since May 2024, as part of one of the city’s largest urban projects in recent years. The works, aimed at modernising the historic square while preserving its cultural significance, include redesigning the layout, improving accessibility, and creating more green spaces.
The project faced delays and was originally planned to finish in July 2025, but most of the main construction is now complete, allowing the square to reopen on August 29, 2025, just in time for the Vredefeesten (Peace Festival) scheduled for the 1st weekend of September 2025.
