Boulevard de Chines — Place des Arts

The Boulevards de Chines: Valence's grand flea market celebration

Since 2009, the Boulevards de Chines have become one of the flagship events in the Drôme flea market calendar. Every year on Ascension Day, the boulevards d'Alsace and Bancel in Valence are adorned with an impressive string of stands run by antique dealers, flea market vendors, and antique furniture professionals from all over the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

A spectacular display in the heart of Valence

Period and rustic furniture, antique tableware, curiosities, trinkets, paintings, clocks, light fixtures, and decorative items are lined up along the boulevards in a carefully curated display. Visitors, many of whom travel dozens of kilometers for the occasion, take their time to negotiate and find that rare piece among the professional exhibitors' offerings. The event, with free admission, attracts several thousand visitors each year from all over the Drôme and neighboring departments.

The Place des Arts: an open-air gallery

Since 2017, the Boulevards de Chines have enriched their program with the Place des Arts. On the places des Clercs and des Ormeaux, in the heart of Valence's historic center, an ephemeral art gallery hosts professional painters, sculptors, and ceramicists. This artistic dimension distinguishes the event from classic flea markets and attracts additional visitors interested in contemporary creation. The combination of art and flea market gives the Boulevards de Chines a unique character in the Drôme event landscape.

A tradition since 2009

Organized by the City of Valence, the Boulevards de Chines celebrated their first ten years with growing success. The Ascension Day date, a public holiday guaranteeing high attendance, and the setting of Valence's Haussmannian boulevards give the event a particularly appreciated festive atmosphere. The extended hours—from 8:30 AM to 7 PM—allow visitors to fully enjoy the day.