The Grande Braderie de Lille, which takes place every year at the end of August, is one of the largest of its kind in France.
I tested it out to see this gigantic flea market, an open-air sale that takes over the entire city for a weekend.
I can confirm that this event is undoubtedly a ‘bon plan’ (great deal) and a real opportunity to snap up some truly fantastic bargains.
However, I must warn you: if you don’t like crowds, the Lille Braderie is something you should absolutely avoid.
This nationally renowned event, which even attracts visitors from beyond our borders, is on a very large scale.
The city of Lille is literally invaded by visitors for this unique weekend, so you will need to plan well in advance if you want to find accommodation for that time.
For our part, we left it a bit to the last minute and were worried we might end up on the street (which is very lively during this period, by the way). In the end, I managed to swap my apartment with a charming couple from Lille via a home-swapping site (which I had already mentioned to you here).
The Braderie consists of several aspects and sectors:
shops in the city all offer their ‘Braderie’ prices; basically, it’s similar to sales, and you can find interesting and new items in all areas
the private yard sale
professional antique dealers
knick-knack market vendors
countless food stalls, which are varied and of very mixed quality
Regarding dining, be aware that almost all the restaurants in the city change their menus for the Braderie to offer special ‘Braderie menus,’ which consist essentially of dishes made with Maroilles cheese, Flemish carbonnade, and traditional moules-frites (mussels and fries).
As it was my first Braderie, I didn’t want to break the rule, so I enjoyed succulent bouchot mussels (seasoned with shallots and celery) at the restaurant Au quai du Wault, located along the quay of the same name.
Great addresses in the city
Even if you are only coming for the weekend, you must stop by Meert to buy or taste their famous waffles.
If you want to treat yourself, I also recommend the house tea room, which boasts a charming courtyard patio, and where the cakes and old-fashioned hot chocolate are to die for!
For another great address in the same area, the bakery…
You can stock up on regional specialties.
As for cultural visits, I invite you to take a look at the beautiful Lille Museum of Fine Arts, which presents very fine collections. Notably, the relief maps in the basement of the museum for those who want a bit of privacy…
In short, I recommend you experience this Braderie at least once, just to see it; and if you really want to make the most of it, it’s better to come with a clear idea of what you are looking for and a means of transport to bring it home (car or suitcase, depending on the size).
