We have arrived at the first big French antiques and brocante fair of the year—and without a doubt, it is my favourite. La Foire de Chatou, also known as the Chatou Ham and Brocante Fair, takes place twice a year just west of Paris. It gathers hundreds of France’s top antique dealers who showcase their treasures
over a full ten days.
Why is it called Ham and Brocante? Because there are so many food stands throughout the fair, especially those selling delicious cured hams. One of the first things you’ll notice is the tables of vendors enjoying long lunches or coffee together. It is a relaxed and very French atmosphere, and it’s easy to get
caught up in the charm.
The fair runs long enough that you can visit more than once. Because the displays are refreshed as pieces sell, there is always something new to discover. I often come multiple times, whether alone,
with friends, or with clients.
This year, I was invited to be part of the fair’s media team and to share some of my favourite stands. That was not easy—there are so many I love. Over the years, I have bought paintings, garden furniture, antique textiles, and beautiful French tableware. This time, I plan to explore the jewellery dealers and see what vintage treasures they’ve brought along.
If you are planning to visit Chatou—or just dreaming about it—here are a few of my best tips for making the most of your day.
Start with the map. As you enter, pick up a fair guide and mark the stands you want to return to. It’s surprisingly easy to forget where you saw that perfect chair or set of plates.
Pace yourself. With so much to see, it’s wise to take breaks. Enjoy coffee in the morning, a glass of wine at lunch, and another pause in the afternoon. The food is part of the experience.
Talk with the vendors. If you fall for a piece, take a moment to chat. Many dealers are happy to share where it came from or offer tips on restoration.
Ask the experts. If you are unsure about something, you can ask a resident specialist for help. They are available near the fair entrance and will gladly give their opinion.
Come prepared. You will probably leave with something in your arms, so bring a tote or basket. If you fall in love with furniture and need help getting it home, there are reliable shippers who collect from the fair. I have worked with Alan Franklin for years and always appreciate their professionalism and care.
Above all, enjoy the moment. Chatou is about more than just shopping for antiques. It is about slowing down, talking with people who love what they do, and perhaps bringing home a beautiful piece of French history.
And if you would like a little taste of the fair, take a look at the short video we filmed at Chatou last year. It captures the feel of the place better than words ever could.
Ile des Impressionistes – Chatou
24 comments
Wow…I would love this place. Thanks for sharing!
I live vicariously through your blog and wonderful videos. Thank you for sharing!
I would be in so much trouble if I could go there. But, I doubt I could afford much, so maybe I would be o.k.
I do have one of those body forms from 1923 used by someone who designed gowns for the Oscars in that period. And I saw in a previous post all the paintings…that is where you couldn’t hold me back. Art hangs in every room in my tiny house…even the bathroom and kitchen. I have to switch them out periodically. Usually I go with the seasons. Oh, maybe next year I could go there.
How I wish I could find a day free to travel north to Chatou, it looks like such fun and I love the French bowls in the first photo, I have quite a collection already and we use them every single day, but there is always room for more! Hope you have a lot of fun x
My daughter and her husband lived in Bourges last year for several months and when I visited them we had so much fun shopping at this fair! Your pictures and video capture it beautifully!
Your voice on the video is 100% Lady Di! Amazingly so!
Thank you for the tour.
Oh what fun!
I went to a brocante last weekend that was 99% junk. But several men were there, with large vans parked in front, and I realized they went and picked out the 1% of stuff that was worth something. It is more satisfying to shop where such experts have assembled worthy items, but the prices are higher, too.
And as for what you say about the sellers taking time to gather at the table for a good meal with wine, I notice time and again, even at humble vide-greniers, that everyone eats seated at a table, with a tablecloth, proper dishes and flatware, and a glass of wine. Some things are sacred!
Love The Chatou Brocante Fair video
Thank You!
This is a lot like our “Round Top” in Texas twice a year, but I am sure The Chatou Brocante Fair came way before Round Top! I would love to come to Paris and shop this fair.
This fair is on my bucket list. So many lovely things in your photos. Someday I will make it over to France.
Several years ago I had the opportunity to attend this show. What a delight and definitely drool worthy. I was struck by the casual atmosphere of vendors and their friends sitting around enjoying a meal or glass of wine together. So very different than in the states.
So MANY lovelies!!! franki
Chatou is a favorite of ours and have been many times. Just as you say, this fair is the best for taking in the ambiance of the event with it’s food stalls and the amazing variety of treasures to catch one’s eye. I’ve not been since 2014, so it is great to see this post. I can take pleasure vicariously!
May I ask if there is a fair you would recommend the week of April 23-30? Will be visiting then … I’ve always wanted to shop at a French fair.
those bowls…. swooning across the pond:)
Hi Sharon,
Lovely video of one of the things I enjoy most, antiquing! The French Fair is a dream come true!
It was great to see it through your eyes.
You look so chic and elegant.
God bless you,
Blanca
That little painting alone is such a treasure! And the linens! Thank you, Sharon, for making this a must-stop next trip over.
So inspiring, love this! Such beautiful treasures.
Thanks for your post, would love to attend. You said they are held twice a year.. do you know date of next one..
Lov
e
Thank you for all your wonderful blogs
You are my very favorite. Would love to meet you one day. I am in Ohio, hoping you will come close one day. You bring the joy of France into my life with all the beautiful information you present
How lovely – wish I could be there to purchase some of that crockery!
Very like with the linen and the little painting, very charming! Thank you Sharon for giving us this amazing inspiration
I never get bored watching the Chateau video. Would love to spend an entire DAY there!
Do you have any recommendations regarding hotel closest to the Faire.? Thank you