Algonquin Travels Article

Written by Larry Cavanagh, Algonquin Bookstore

Market Day in Provence

When traveling through France and especially Provence, make time to visit a small town on market day. There is no better way to experience the country and its people. You will come away with both souvenirs and memories you will long cherish.

Taking in a market in a Provençal town is truly one of the joys I treasure on my vacations. Every time that I return is like visiting an old friend that you haven’t seen in a while. You know the look, the voice and the smells -- each market has a comforting mix of the familiar and new. This is true because even though they each have their own unique charm, they share many commonalities.

The vendors

Although some importers do have stalls (as do many in the Byward Market), most are locals who only sell their wares at markets in their own region. Every morning, these individuals get up before dawn, travel to and set up in a different town as part of a weekly circuit. Other vendors are local farmers who supplement their income by working markets that are closest to their farms. No matter who they are though, are all characters whose personalities are somewhere between retail clerks working for commission and circus buskers.

The product

Historically, the only shopping available in these small towns was through market vendors that came to town once a week. Now, even though they can (and do) drive to the "hyper marche" and get the same things that the market can offer and more, many plan their shopping trips around what they will pick up from the vendors that they know and trust. This is especially true for regional fare.

picture of market in provenceWhat does this all mean for the tourist?

The market is a treasure trove of  goods, better than any tourist store could hope to offer. What you get there are not mass produced trinkets, rather items made by the locals for use in their everyday lives. Look for olive wood utensils (only get those not varnished!), wicker baskets, shoes, and clothing. Also, don’t forget home-made items like jars of lavender honey, bars of scented soaps, and cans of foie gras.

Markets generally run from 8 am to noon; as you browse, you won't want to miss having lunch. Sample, then purchase some locally made baguette, cheeses, sausages, and flavoured olives. As you select a little bit from here and there, you will soon find that you have the  makings of a picnic lunch that you will describe to friends for years to come – especially if you pick up a nice bottle of wine at a local ‘cave’ to wash it all down with.

When are Market Days in Provence?

Markets run during the week in different small towns throughout the region. View the market schedule for the Vauclus region of Provence.