Vide Grenier

May 1 is the vide grenier (empty attic) in Argelès-sur-mer--in other words a mega flea market.

It is one of the largest in France.

Locals empty out their houses plus dealers come from all over.

Likewise it is not just villagers who poke from table to table to see what is a treat.

Those who live in surrounding towns arrive in droves. Not only is the main street occupied with stands and bargain seekers, so are the other streets that make up the village all the way beyond the river.

Johnny Halladay and other French singers' voices is piped over the intercom system.

Just about everything imaginable is for sale. Over the years I've picked up some real bargains. This year we made two huge purchases.

One was this pitcher and water glass set. Glasses were one of the things we were searching for. Price?
10 Euros or about 11 dollars. I also found a silver-plated candelabra for the huge price of 3 Euros. 

Then there were the goodie stands. Rick passed by the man grilling snails.

And because it was May 1 combined with local traditions, lilies-of-the-valley were for sale everywhere.  I bought a sprig even if I'm not sure how I line up with it's symbolism of chastity but I do with the idea it is flower that means lucky in love.