Vide-Grenier de Saint-Xandre

The Vide-Grenier de Saint-Xandre: the tradition of treasure hunting near La Rochelle

For three decades, the association Rythme et Danse has organized a large annual flea market and car boot sale in the streets of Saint-Xandre. This event has become a must-attend for treasure hunters in the La Rochelle area, attracting between 100 and 200 exhibitors who set up shop on rue de la République and the adjacent streets in the town center.

Saint-Xandre, a residential town in the La Rochelle agglomeration

Saint-Xandre is a municipality in Charente-Maritime located a few kilometers north of La Rochelle, within the Communauté d'Agglomération de La Rochelle. This residential village in Aunis has retained its authentic character with its church, stone houses, and flowery lanes. The weekly Friday market and events organized by local associations maintain a dynamic village life on the outskirts of the big city.

A thirty-year-old event that is not getting old

The Saint-Xandre flea market reached its 30th edition in 2025, a testament to its longevity and popular success. The earliest treasure hunters arrive as early as 5:30 am to find the best items before the official opening at 6 am. The exhibitors, exclusively private individuals, have pitches at a rate of €5 per linear meter along rue de la République and in the streets made pedestrian for the occasion.

A day of outdoor treasure hunting

From 6 am to 6 pm, visitors browse the stalls in search of all kinds of second-hand items: crockery, trinkets, clothes, toys, books, vinyl records, tools, small furniture. The atmosphere is that of a human-sized village car boot sale, where people take the time to chat with sellers and negotiate prices. Food and entertainment on site complete this friendly day in Aunis.