braderie

Braderie is a term used in French-speaking regions to denote a large, usually annual street market or sale event. The word derives from brader, meaning to sell goods at reduced prices or as a clearance, and is used for markets, fairs, and public sales where vendors offer items at bargain prices. In many towns, a braderie is more than a market: it is a civic event featuring temporary stalls along streets, parades, music, and food.

In practice braderies typically take place outdoors in urban centers, with vendors selling a mix of second-hand goods, antiques, crafts, clothing, furniture, and street food. Some braderies emphasize community or charity sales, while others are commercial affairs drawing visitors from a wide region. The atmosphere is informal and festive, and price haggling is common in many stalls.

The most famous example is the Braderie de Lille, held on the first weekend of September in Lille, France. It is widely described as one of the largest flea markets in Europe, attracting several million visitors and thousands of sellers from the region. The event traces its roots to medieval trade fairs and has become a major cultural and tourist milestone for the city.

Braderies also occur in other French cities and in neighboring Belgium, sometimes coexisting with local fairs or markets.