The May 16-17 2026 weekend is one of the densest of the Vendée season. Over 38 events are scheduled across two days. From the Marais Poitevin to the Côte de Lumière coast, bargain hunters are spoiled for choice.
Weather-wise, May brings the first real warmth on the coast. Bocage villages stay cooler. The calendar mixes village garage sales, big heritage events and collectors' fairs.
For early birds, some stalls open from 6am. For wanderers, the atmosphere stays pleasant until 5pm. Here is a 9-stop tour, from the Marais Poitevin to the Saint-Jean-de-Monts area.
Saturday May 16 — the heritage day
Prévéil de Bazoges-en-Paillers — village festival since 1968
The Saturday village event. The Prévéil de Bazoges-en-Paillers, run by the festival committee since 1968, mixes garage sale, entertainment and popular vibe. In the heart of the Vendée Bocage.
Why go? More than just a brocante, it is a full village festival. Meals and some activities on registration with the committee. Free entry for bargain hunters. See the page.
Jard-sur-Mer garage sale — bargain hunting under the parasol pines
Holiday vibe, summer mood. The Jard-sur-Mer garage sale animates the Place des Ormeaux from May 14 to 17. In the heart of the Vendée seaside resort, on the Côte de Lumière.
For whom? Holidaymakers on the long Ascension weekend, families, bargain hunters looking for beach breaks. 20 minutes from Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and its medieval castle. See the page.
Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez garage sale — the Ascension edition
Another long weekend highlight. The Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez garage sale covers May 14, 16 and 17. On the Côte de Lumière, between beaches, dunes and forest.
The plus of the day? You hunt in shorts, then go for a coastal walk. Ideal for families already on site. See the page.
Sunday May 17 — the big Vendée day
Commequiers castle grand garage sale — bargain hunt in 15th century ruins
The most spectacular setting of the weekend. The Commequiers castle grand garage sale takes over the medieval ruins from the 15th century. Organised by Les Amis du Vieux Château.
Why unique? Few French flea markets can boast such a backdrop. Varied stallholders, snack bar, food, atmosphere between heritage and bargains. See the page.
Sables-d'Olonne collectors' fair — for serious enthusiasts
Heading to the Côte de Lumière. The Sables-d'Olonne collectors' fair brings together fans of vintage postcards, stamps, coins, vinyl, toys and militaria.
What stands out? Small entry fee (1-2 €), free for children. Ideal after a beach morning or a stroll on the promenade. See the page.
Real Fontenay-le-Comte garage sale — 100 stalls at the sports park
In the heart of southern Vendée. The real Fontenay-le-Comte garage sale brings together about 100 private stallholders at the Plaine des Sports André Forens. May 17 only.
For whom? Bargain hunters of the art and history town, those of the nearby Marais Poitevin. Family vibe, food on site. See the page.
Foussais-Payré garage sale — bargain hunting in one of the prettiest villages
South Vendée again, heritage style. The Foussais-Payré garage sale takes over this remarkable village, known for its Romanesque church and its white stone houses. On May 17.
The smart move: arrive early, hunt, lunch on site, extend with a heritage walk. A stone's throw from the Marais Poitevin. See the page.
APEL Notre-Dame de Benet grand garage sale — school solidarity
The useful and warm event. The APEL Notre-Dame de Benet grand garage sale is run by the Catholic school parents' association. Proceeds go to the school.
Why go? Grab a bargain and support a local cause, in this Marais Poitevin commune bordering the Deux-Sèvres. See the page.
Nieul-le-Dolent Parc de la Tournerie garage sale — country setting
Heading to the Yon area. The Saint-Pierre Sportive club organises its grand garage sale at the Parc de la Tournerie. A leafy spot loved by Vendée bargain hunters for its country vibe.
The advantage? You hunt in the shade of big trees. Close to La Roche-sur-Yon and the Sables-d'Olonne beaches. Stallholder registration via HelloAsso. See the page.
Also worth a stop
For those who want to go further:
- Vix garage sale (May 17) — Place de la Liberté, in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, 10 minutes from Fontenay-le-Comte.
- Avrillé garage sale (May 17) — at Espace 2000, in the village of menhirs and dolmens.
- Saint-Michel-le-Cloucq garage sale (May 17) — at the gates of the Marais Poitevin, 5 minutes from Fontenay.
- Sainte-Foy garage sale (May 17) — Olonne country, minutes from the coast.
- Noirmoutier Salle du Dr Hubert Poignant garage sale (May 17) — covered setting on the mimosa island.
