Foussais-Payré Flea Market

Foussais-Payré flea market

Foussais-Payré is a small village of about 1,100 inhabitants in southeastern Vendée, on the edge of Deux-Sèvres. One of the most picturesque villages in the Pays de Fontenay-Vendée, famed for its listed Saint-Hilaire church from the 11th century, and its notable white limestone heritage.

The annual flea market, set for Sunday 17 May 2026, is a highlight of local community life, usually held in the village centre. It draws locals and a few amateur dealers from across the region.

A heritage village

Foussais-Payré is recognised as one of southern Vendée's finest villages. The Saint-Hilaire church with its 1030 sculpted Romanesque portal is a jewel of Poitevin Romanesque art. White-stone houses, wells, old halls and wayside crosses bear witness to rich medieval and Renaissance pasts. Agrippa d'Aubigné, Huguenot poet and companion of Henri IV, lived here — his house can still be visited.

What to find

• Bric-a-brac from locals
• Old crockery and trinkets
• Books, magazines, records
• Children's toys and games
• Clothes and shoes
• Small furniture
• Decor, old linen

Extending the visit

Visit Saint-Hilaire church, d'Aubigné's house, medieval alleys. Push on to Fontenay-le-Comte (sub-prefecture, Ville d'Art et d'Histoire) 15 min, or Vouvant with its 12th-century keep 20 min.

Terroir

Foussais-Payré is at the heart of rich terroir: Vendée mogette beans, ham, préfou, Vendée brioche. Local producers sometimes set up stalls.