BRADERIE DE LILLE. a different kind of Flea Market

The Braderie de Lille is the largest Flea Market in Europe. What is amazing about it is that it exists since at least 1127. Over the years, it went through many transformations to become what it is today. Sellers from all over the world come to this day to participate to the Braderie.

The Braderie seems to owe its name to a Flemish butcher selling rotisserie chicken there in 1446. “Braden” means “roasted” in Flemish.

Food is quite an important element for the Braderie, not only because of its name, but also because it is a huge part of the events held at the Braderie. Indeed, “Moules et Frites” Mussels and Fries, a specialty of the region (north of France) are eaten in large quantities during the few days that the Braderie lasts.  Mussels appeared at the end of the XIXth century, quickly followed by the fries.

Restaurants hold a contest to see which one will have the most shells in front of its doors.  About 500 tons of mussels and 30 tons of French fries are eaten every year. Before eating, you can also choose to run a semi-marathon since it precedes the Braderie.

The Braderie extends over 100 kilometers about 62 miles (yes, you read well!) of pavement and counts 10,000 exhibitors.  Sections have been created to make it easier for visitors to stroll among the areas of interest. Some streets become pedestrian during the Braderie and they are overcrowded. You can find professional antique dealers, political parties, people selling their knick-knacks and many other exhibitors.

On average and depending on the years about 2 million visitors come to the Braderie. That’s 5 times more than the Rennes Braderie, the second largest in France.