Braderie de Lille with Kids: Children’s Activities and Practical Tips
Visiting the Braderie de Lille with children is possible and can even be great fun — as long as you plan ahead. Crowds, miles of walking, stalls as far as the eye can see… here is our advice so the whole family can make the most of the event.
The children’s braderie at the Gare Saint-Sauveur
A space dedicated to children is set up every year at the Gare Saint-Sauveur, a Lille cultural venue just a stone’s throw from the centre. Second-hand toys, children’s books, board games: children can make their own finds there in a calmer atmosphere than on the big boulevards.
The foire aux manèges (funfair)
Traditionally set up on the Champ-de-Mars esplanade, the foire aux manèges (funfair) delights children. Classic rides, fairground games, candyfloss… A must for families visiting the Braderie.
Family-friendly times
With young children, aim for Sunday morning right from the start (8 am). The crowds are thinner than at midday, there are no queues and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Avoid Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening, when visitor numbers are at their peak.
Practical tips
- Pushchair or baby carrier? A pushchair is hard to manoeuvre on cobblestones and in the crowds. A baby carrier is recommended for little ones.
- Bring a child safety harness or wrist strap for children who walk in very busy areas.
- Agree a meeting point in case you get separated, and put an adult’s contact details on a piece of paper in the child’s pocket.
- Protect yourselves from the sun if the weather is fine — long hours outdoors can tire children out.
- Pack snacks to avoid hunger meltdowns in areas with few restaurants.
Cultural activities for children
Several Lille museums offer special activities over the Braderie weekend. The Musée d’Histoire Naturelle, the Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse and the LaM (modern art museum) often run workshops for children.
Preparing well for the Braderie with children
- The right time slot: Saturday morning or Sunday morning, before the big crowds arrive; avoid Saturday evening with the youngest children.
- Safety: write your phone number on a wristband or put it in the child’s pocket, and set an easy-to-find meeting point in case you are separated.
- Equipment: a baby carrier rather than a pushchair in the packed streets, water, snacks, a cap and small change for the rides.
- Breaks: the Citadelle park and its surroundings offer a calmer space to catch your breath away from the crowds.
- Children’s budget: second-hand toys are easy to haggle over; give them a small envelope of cash so they can go bargain hunting themselves.
