Each Monday, the Quaregnon market has for many years been filling the city centre’s streets with its colourful stalls. Recognised as one of the three largest markets in Wallonia, it’s a true heritage which the town’s inhabitants are committed to. So if, like me, you’re itching to “strike a little deal”, then follow the guide.

A market with its codes

It’s 8 o’clock on a cool morning and the weather is pleasant for us to start our walk round the market. Almost 170 traders await visitors and regulars to offer their wares and share advice. “The weather plays a very important role in the life of the market but one thing is certain in Quaregnon: whatever the weather you’ll still find your favourite merchants” Sylvain tells us, usher of the market for several years. Like on every Monday morning, before welcoming visitors, merchants are are in a hurry to find their places and set up their stands. Everybody is in their place, in compliance with regulations. “It’s the Monday ritual, which sometimes raises a few problems. We’re here to welcome the public as well as we can, of course, but also keep the market ticking over by welcoming new traders”. There are permanent vendors who come every week and occasional vendors who take advantage of open spaces to set up and sell their new products. Every Monday the magic of Quaregnon market operates from 8am to 1pm; it’s an institution recognised across the region.

An explosion of flavours

You find everything in the Quaregnon market. Everyone can make interesting discoveries but also do good business, whatever their wants and tastes. You’ll love the quality and expertise of the many textile stalls that offer their tablecloths, draperies and shelf displays of sewing fabrics for those with homemade tastes. Vegetables, beef and famous roast chicken will tempt your taste buds - already lured by the good smells filling the foot of the Saint-Quentin tower. At an artisanal coffee roaster on rue Castiaux, you can buy the best freshly roasted selections before continuing your walk with a hot coffee in hand. This culinary delight is a genuine moment of simple happiness, and will make you want to come back. Demonstrators, nurserymen for the warm weather, household items... merchant after merchant create a friendly and civilised atmosphere. Before leaving you’ll be won over by the Italian specialities with their diverse meals, but whatever happens, spend one last moment on the terrace of a café to wrap up your Monday in the market - it’s a tradition!
 
Join the Quaregnon market every Monday from 8am to 1.30pm, even on national holidays.