Markets of Provence

Everyday is Market Day ….. somewhere in Provence ….. rain, shine or Mistral!

Very, Very Early… each morning … farmers, growers and merchants begin their journey across the countryside to the narrow streets and village squares all over the region.

 ……… by 8am the day’s activities begin ……… by 9am the whole town is involved!      This has taken place …. each day… for centuries!

Much has been written about the markets of Provence – the festive, exciting atmosphere, the good humored bantering and trading, the music and street theater.

Amongst it all lies the everyday lives of the local villagers – wheeling their market baskets, searching for the freshest seasonal produce, cheeses, charcuterie, poultry etc., etc.

As busy and hectic as market day can sometimes be, the villagers and the stall holders welcome visitors to the markets. They take a pride in showing off their village – giving information about their products, offering suggestions of their favorite recipes, sharing a part of their day – always eager to make you feel welcome.

Market days are a great start to a day’s sightseeing. Begin with a café au lait at an outdoor café, followed by picking up supplies for your picnic. Some local cheese, olives, fresh bread, some charcuterie, maybe some tapenade, wonderful fresh vegetables and incredible seasonal fruit. You might wish to try a spit roasted chicken and roasted potatoes cooked right on the spot at stalls at most of the markets. Desert is easy – from a nearby Pâtisserie….and don’t forget….a bottle of wine from the area!

As the market winds down, it’s time to find a shady spot under a Plane tree or in a park and enjoy the results of your morning’s work putting together your picnic lunch.

After lunch, perhaps a petite sieste, and another cup of coffee – it’s time to explore the town, the area or a nearby attraction!

Bonne Journée du Marché!

Please Note: Look out for notices of specialty markets being held in some towns, such as the Truffle Market at Richeranches and Carpentras on Friday mornings during truffle season; Flower markets and antiques markets are also commonly held in various villages.

Daily Market Schedule

  MONDAY:                          Cavaillon,  Cadenet,  Bedarrides,  Bedoin,  Bollene,  Fountainville,  Forcalquier,  Goult,  Lauris,  Mazan,  Nimes,  Poilenc,  Saint- Saturnin-les-Avignon,  Tulette   TUESDAY:                       Aix-en-Provence,  Beaumes de Venise,  Caderousse,  Caromb,  Cucuron,  Fontaine de Vaucluse,  Gordes,  Grignon,Â...
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