Home to Basketball and Handball during the Olympics, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region became famous worldwide in August 2024 almost instantly. However, for many Northern European people, Lille is known as the city hosting Europe’s largest flea market. And when you think of a flea market, perhaps a booze cruise comes to mind. The Braderie de Lille is not just any event—it's the biggest flea market in Europe, dating back to the 12th century. This annual festival, usually held on the first weekend of September, transforms the largest city of Northern France into a sprawling marketplace that attracts nearly three million visitors each year. On top of this, the event is a celebration of mussels and beer, creating a unique and festive atmosphere. A competition between restaurants used to be held to create the highest heap of mussel shells, throwing them into the street. Although this practice has ceased, the tradition of enjoying mussels and beer remains strong. This year, exceptionally, the Braderie will take place from September 14th to 15th, 2024.
La Braderie de Lille: A Historical Festivity with Modern Flair
The origins of the Braderie de Lille are deeply rooted in history. It likely began as part of the medieval Lille Fair, where servants were once allowed to sell their masters' unwanted goods. Over time, the event grew, attracting traders from across Europe and becoming a key commercial and cultural highlight in Northern France. Today, the event gives more space to local residents, allowing them to sell items directly on the streets. This means you will find fewer junk items and far more second-hand treasures that you will have to negotiate over. Every pavement of the city centre is covered with items sold for as little as €1, making it a haven for bargain hunters. Many shops and boutiques in Lille’s city centre and Old Lille also participate, offering discounts of up to 50% off their entire inventory. Check out the people queuing in front of the shops. Although the Braderie officially starts on Saturday, eager shoppers begin hunting for deals as early as Friday.
A Weekend of Sardine-Like Crowds and Endless Discoveries
Imagine being part of a bustling crowd, packed like sardines in a tin, navigating through 100 kilometres of market stalls that stretch across Lille’s charming streets. The city vibrates with life—music, street performers, and impromptu shows fill the air. Whether you're on the hunt for antiques, vintage clothes, or quirky collectibles, this is the place to be. The Braderie offers something for everyone—from high-end antiques to everyday bargains.
The atmosphere is electric, with millions of visitors making their way through the narrow streets, each turn offering a new discovery. And it’s not just about shopping—the Braderie is a celebration of culture, food, and, of course, beer.
The Ultimate Beer Festival
The Braderie de Lille is also a paradise for beer lovers. With local brews flowing freely, this event doubles as an unofficial beer festival. Many visitors come specifically to enjoy the regional beers of Lille, such as the strong and flavourful 3 Monts brewed around Cassel, on the way from Lille to Dunkerque, and the classic Ch'ti Blonde. "Ch’ti" refers to the nickname for locals and their distinct accent, which is often exaggerated. There’s nothing quite like sipping on a cold beer while enjoying the lively atmosphere and delicious moules-frites (mussels and chips), the event’s traditional dish.
If you’re keen on exploring more local flavours, make sure to visit these local breweries:
• Brasserie Célestin: Located in Old Lille, this small craft brewery offers a unique selection of beers that reflect the city’s brewing heritage.
• Brasserie Cambier: Situated in Croix, on the outskirts of Lille, Brasserie Cambier is celebrated for its Mongy beer range, which is a nod to the city’s iconic tramway. The Mongy range is a staple in local beer culture, offering traditional varieties such as Blonde, Ambrée, Triple, and Saison, along with modern favourites like IPA and Session IPA.
How to Bring Back Beer from the Braderie?
For English visitors, attending the Braderie de Lille is an experience like no other. Here are some common questions they might have, along with tips to make the most of their visit:
1. What are the must-try regional beers in Lille?
The choice of beers in Lille is immense, thanks to its proximity to Belgium and the growing number of local craft breweries. Make sure to try local favourites like 3 Monts, Ch’ti Blonde, and PVL (Pévèle, a beer brewed south of Lille in this area). Additionally, Brasserie Célestin and Brasserie du Moulin d’Ascq are must-visits for their unique brews and festive atmosphere during the Braderie.
2. Where can we find the best beer stands?
Beer stands are scattered throughout the market, and everyone is drinking beer in the streets and across the multiple bars in the centre and Old Lille. These areas are not just about shopping—they’re the heart of the Braderie’s festive spirit.
3. Are there any beer tasting events during the Braderie?
Several bars and restaurants set up special tents during the Braderie. Check out places like Les 3 Brasseurs, which has its own brewery just by the station, or head to the trendy La Capsule bar in Old Lille, a bar dedicated to small craft breweries: 28 taps and more than 300 beers.
4. Can we bring home regional beers?
Absolutely! Many stalls offer bottled versions of the beers for you to take home, but if you are travelling by car and want to fill your boot with beer, you would be better off buying your beer in Calais from Calais Vins or Olivier Vins. Just be mindful of the customs regulations when bringing alcohol back to the UK.
The two wine and beer merchants situated close to the port stock the best beers of the region, so why bother carrying heavy beer through the crowd when you can park in their large private parking and load them directly into your boot? Additionally, Calais Vins and Olivier Vins will help you reclaim the VAT with a seamless process.
What Beers do Calais Vins and Olivier Vins Stock?
• Belgian Beer Cellar:
You’ll find more than 150 types of Belgian beer in bottles or Perfect Draft kegs, including Paix Dieu, Duvel, Rince Cochon, and Triple Karmeliet, to name a few.
• Beers from Northern France:
Many of the beers you’ll find at the Braderie, such as Moulin d’Ascq, Angelus, PVL, Ch’ti, Anosteké (named the best beer in the world), La Fière, and La Raoul, are all available at our stores, and more. We stock over 300 regional beers, including tax-free Lille beers. The shops and stalls at the buzzing Braderie are unlikely to provide you with a voucher to claim your VAT back.
• Perfect Draft Keg:
Looking for Phillips Perfect Draft kegs to bring back home? We have a range of 6-litre kegs including Leffe, Kwak, Stella Artois, Hoegaarden, and Tripel Karmeliet. Check out our dedicated page to Perfect Draft kegs to buy duty-free.
Practical Tips for British Visitors Navigating the Braderie
What are the best stalls to visit?
For a true Braderie experience, explore the antique stalls on Façade de l’Esplanade and the unique finds along Boulevard Victor Hugo. Whether you’re looking for furniture, art, or quirky trinkets, there’s something here for everyone.
Where can we park?
Parking can be a challenge during the Braderie. The best option is to use park-and-ride facilities outside the city and take the metro “Le Val” into the heart of the action. For instance, if you come by car from Calais, you could stop at St Philibert (in Lomme). There is free parking for visitors using the underground, then you can head directly to the town centre in 15 minutes. Take Line 2 towards CH Dron and get off at Gare Lille Flandre. Another option is the Parking 4 Cantons Stade Pierre Mauroy. This is a secure car park, free of charge if you take the metro. From this line 1, it will also take you 15 minutes to reach the city centre (Gare Lille Flandres or Rihour for the heart of the city). Check out the local metro system in Lille.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Walking is the best way to explore the Braderie, but renting a V'Lille bike can also be a great way to navigate between different parts of the market. Also, remember that during the Braderie most of the streets are pedestrianised, and the crowd is immense.
Where can we grab a good meal?
During the Braderie de Lille, you can find a good meal absolutely everywhere! The restaurants set up wooden tables outside, creating a lively and communal dining experience. No reservations are needed (or allowed) at the Braderie—just find a spot that suits you. Sharing moules-frites (mussels and chips) is a must; it’s a beloved tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re chatting with locals from Lille, visitors from Belgium, or tourists from other parts of France and beyond, it’s a moment of celebration and connection.
These wooden tables, similar to picnic benches, are set up along the pedestrianised streets from Lille Flandres station towards the Grand Place, Rue de Béthune, and into Vieux Lille. Essentially, anywhere within the Braderie’s pedestrian area, you’ll find these communal tables, making it easy to enjoy the festival’s vibrant atmosphere while savouring a classic dish. And what do you pair moules-frites with? Beer, of course!
Are there any deals on wine or beer at La Braderie ?
Absolutely! Many stalls offer bottled versions of the beers for you to take home, but if you are travelling by car and want to fill your boot with beer, the best deals are not at the Braderie stalls but at Calais Vins or Olivier Vins. By purchasing from us, you avoid the hassle of carrying heavy beer through the crowded streets of Lille. Instead, you can park in our large private car park and load your purchases directly into your boot. Moreover, if you pre-order your wine and beer online, you can even get a free ferry trip (one day of three day)! Plus, Calais Vins and Olivier Vins will assist you with a seamless VAT refund process, making your visit not only convenient but also cost-effective. With this guide, you’re all set to make the most of your visit to the Braderie de Lille, enjoying the best of the city’s beer culture and more!
