La Grande Braderie de Lille

Europe's biggest flea market is a must visit. La Grande Braderie is a tradition dating back to medieval times. The citizens of Lille set up shop on the street and flog their unwanted possessions in a jumble sale of epic proportions! Any resident can grab a corner of pavement and play hawker for the weekend. From household items to the most esoteric gadget you never knew you wanted, bargains galore are guaranteed at one of Europe's biggest flea markets. Of course, haggling is mandatory and if you really want to get into the spirit of things there's plenty of beer to help you on your way.

If crowds aren't your thing then this is not the place for you. It was very intense at times and it crossed our minds that had there been any sort of catastrophe... we were pretty much screwed!

Headlines "AMERICAN FAMILY TRAGEDY...TRAMPLED TO DEATH AT STREET FAIR" Good thing for us that the locals are quite used to the crowds and seemingly fine with hords of people pushing their way through the streets. The only people who were bothered or concerned I think were us. Personal space is a funny thing here...not too much of it.

Mussels or Moules as they are called in Belgium are a specialty and are served EVERYWHERE! They come in a pot with Belgian fries and if you like Mussels you won't go hungry here! The amount of mussels being slung in this country is staggering. Mussels to Belgians are like cheeseburgers to Americans...eaten everyday by millions! It sounds so much more refined to say I'll have the Moules et Frites VS. a number 3 combo...and make it big! And have I mentioned the beer today....mmmmmm the beer. Nothing washes down anything here better than beer! It's just the way they role and of course we have blended well here in that department!

They are prepared a number of ways but Dan and I are fond of the Moules avec Roquefort...........they are to die for!

The cafes are very proud of the piles of Mussel shells lingering outside on their curb. Bragging rights go to the cafe with the largest mound which is also a sign that they have the best Moules in town!

What a great day. The weather was perfect and we really soaked up some local fun. We're ready for next year already! The girls were in a terrific mood and they love that stroller....so do the locals! We're a real spectacle with that thing. We really need to start charging people for photo's. Meme shopped till she dropped as you can see! Enjoy the pics!