La Braderie

So I've planned my arrival spectacularly. I arrived one week early. Earlier than what you ask? why The Braderie of course!

It is a city-wide flea market that has its origins in the 12th century! The term Braderie is actually used in Belgium and the Netherlands, which just goes to show you how very flemish Lille is. Lille is one of if not the largest Braderie in the region. People come from all over to get in on the action, whether it be shopping or selling.

Signs have been placed all over the city saying where and where not to set up shop for longer than I've been here. It goes from 2pm on satuday and goes til 11pm on sunday. Straight through. Like those time limits stopped anyone. I woke up at 9am to the sound of hussle and bussle outside my window. People were setting up and selling first thing in the morning. I got dressed and headed out to experience this age-old tradition.

I wandered down the streets just getting oriented to the insanity that is the Braderie. People's goods flooded off the sidewalk and onto the streets, which is why the city center is closed to traffic this weekend. Luckily it's lovely and sunny this weekend, so everyone seems to be in a good mood to haggle a good price.

There are so many antiques! Of course, I know I'm in Europe so it's bound to happen here; but it seems everywhere I turn I see a large guilded mirror or secretary desk. The forever party planner in my head keeps seeing things what would have been perfect for my Steampunk party this summer!

I went in search for the infamous Moule (mussels) piles. Apperently it is tradition for restaurants to compete over selling the most Moules Frites (mussels and fries). I only found one outside of the restaurant Aux Moules.


I'm in the market for 4 things: Cups, Bedside lamp, a Bike and a Sewing Machine. Here's to hoping I can find them!