Night of the Night – Day of Silence 2026

A place where silence is still given free rein

Since 2015, Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide has been officially recognised as a cross-border 3-star quiet area . This recognition followed extensive noise measurements on both the Flemish and Dutch sides of the nature reserve. The average noise level is limited to 35 dB(A) and extraneous noises are heard for less than 20 per cent of the time.

Anyone walking here will notice the difference. You can hear the rustling of leaves, birdsong, the sound of a herd of grazers or your own footsteps in the sand. These are sounds that you sometimes barely notice in a busy environment. In our stimulus-filled society, that natural silence is a precious commodity. Silence gives you the space to slow down, relax and pay attention to what is happening around you. Silence is important for nature too. Many animals need silence to rest, find food and reproduce.

The night, too, deserves our attention

As well as silence, darkness is also a natural treasure. As soon as it gets dark, a whole different side of nature comes to life. The nightjar can be heard above the heathland, bats go hunting and moths seek out fragrant night-blooming flowers. More than 1,000 different species of moths have been recorded in the Grenspark . They are important pollinators and provide a food source for bats and birds, amongst others.

For many animals, the natural alternation between light and dark is a key part of their biological rhythm. But a dark night is valuable for us too. Our bodies are attuned to the rhythm of day and night. By being mindful of our use of artificial light in the evening, we not only give nature more space, but also help to preserve the natural transition from day to night.

Lose yourself in a harp concert or join us on a silent walk

That is why, for the first time this year, we are combining the Night of the Night on Saturday 24 October with the Day of Silence on Sunday 25 October. Together with our partners, we are putting together a varied programme. Unwind with yoga or meditation in nature, experience the silence during a guided silent walk, or discover more about birds’ nesting behaviour during the book launch with Walter & Joris De Raedt. Or let your mind wander during a harp concert by Laura De Jongh in the nocturnal setting of the Karrenmuseum. At Titurel, too, you can experience silence and darkness in a special way during a talk on bats and an evening walk.

Please note: the Grenspark is only accessible between sunrise and sunset. The activities taking place during the Night of the Night after sunset are therefore organised at suitable and accessible locations. Registration is required for some activities.

Would you like to get involved?

You can also make space for silence and darkness at home. By switching off the television or radio a little more often and limiting artificial light, you give yourself and your surroundings more peace and quiet. And perhaps there’s a little corner in your garden where you can give darkness and natural vegetation plenty of space? That way, your garden becomes a place where birds, bats, insects and other nocturnal animals can find a home.

Why not swap your television for a walk in the Grenspark? Switch your mobile phone to silent mode or leave it in one of the lockers at Visit Kalmthout. That way, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this quiet area with your full attention.

Out and about with the Silence Bag

Or head out with the ‘silence bag’ from De Vroente, Duurzaam Educatiepunt , and discover nature in a completely different way. Children and families set off on their own with surprising tasks. Find a quiet spot, prick up your ears, listen for the faintest sounds or try to become completely immersed in your surroundings. Who can manage to stay as quiet as a mouse for the longest time? The ‘silence bag’ can be booked on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October, at 10.00 am or 1.00 pm on each day. Book your ‘silence bag’ here.