Vide-Grenier de Pélissanne

The Vide-Grenier de Pélissanne: Treasure Hunting and Provençal Heritage on May 1st

Each year, on May 1st, the village of Pélissanne hosts its annual car boot sale, a popular event that brings together locals and visitors for the pleasure of treasure hunting and Provençal conviviality. Set up in the streets and squares of the town center, individual sellers offer a wide variety of second-hand items, much to the delight of bargain hunters from all over the Bouches-du-Rhône region.

A Medieval Village with Rich Heritage Between Salon and Aix

Located 5 kilometers east of Salon-de-Provence and 24 kilometers west of Aix-en-Provence, Pélissanne is a village whose history dates back to prehistoric times, with traces of Neolithic occupation dating back to 4000 BC on the site of the Saint-Laurent de Cabardel chapel. Fortified since the Middle Ages, the town has preserved many testimonies of its past: the magnificent Pelican fountain, the village's emblem, built in 1769-1770 in the Aix style, with its 4-meter stone column topped by the famous pelican; the belfry, rebuilt in 1702 on the site of the old drawbridge, equipped with a wrought iron bell tower, sundials, and clocks; and the imposing Saint-Maurice church, built between 1824 and 1830, 42 meters long and 17 meters high, which houses a 17th-century Gothic bell tower and a triptych classified as a historic monument.

The Canal de Craponne and the Touloubre: A Preserved Natural Setting

Pélissanne owes part of its prosperity to the Canal de Craponne, built in the 16th century, which enabled the development of agriculture and the installation of mills along its course. The village is also crossed by the Touloubre, a Provençal river that gives the town a green and peaceful setting. The Passadouires washhouse (1853), the Maureau Park (1642), and the Jean Bertrand mill (1775) bear witness to this close relationship between the village and its waterways. Strolling through the streets of Pélissanne before or after the car boot sale allows you to discover this exceptional hydraulic and agricultural heritage.

Finds for All Tastes

The Pélissanne car boot sale offers a wide variety of second-hand items: Provençal tableware and ceramics, books and comics, clothing and accessories, toys and board games, knick-knacks and decorative objects, small furniture, and curiosities of all kinds. Prices, set by individuals, are generally very attractive, and bargaining is an integral part of the treasure hunting experience. The May 1st public holiday attracts a large family audience, taking advantage of this moment of relaxation to combine heritage walks and good deals.

May 1st: A Car Boot Sale Tradition in Provence

Labor Day is traditionally one of the highlights of the car boot sale season in Provence. The mild and sunny climate of the Bouches-du-Rhône at this time of year offers ideal conditions for outdoor treasure hunting. In Pélissanne, this day is an opportunity to unite the local community around a friendly event that contributes to the circular economy and social cohesion. The profits from the organization often help to fund the activities of Pélissanne associations.

How to Get There and Practical Information

Pélissanne is easily accessible from the A7 motorway (Salon-de-Provence exit) or via the D572 from Aix-en-Provence. The village has free parking on the outskirts of the center. Entry to the car boot sale is free for visitors. It is advisable to arrive early in the morning to take advantage of the best deals, as experienced bargain hunters are present from the opening of the stalls.