Every year, on the night of the 7th and early morning of the 8th day of the first lunar month, travelers from across Vietnam flock to Vieng Market to enjoy the festive atmosphere and take part in its age-old tradition of buying for luck.

In the past, Nam Dinh province hosted four Vieng Markets, but today, only Vieng Nam Giang Market (in Nam Truc District), also known as Vieng Pagoda Market, and Vieng Vu Ban Market (in Vu Ban District), associated with the Phu Day Relic Complex, remain. Among them, Vieng Phu Market is the most bustling and well-attended.

A wide variety of goods are sold at the market, but farming tools stand out as some of the most popular items. Many believe that purchasing these tools will bring good luck and prosperity in business and agriculture for the entire year.

Another highlight is the ornamental plant section, where buyers excitedly pick out trees and shrubs, hoping to usher in a year of wealth and success.

As midnight approaches, the influx of visitors intensifies, making the roads surrounding the market increasingly congested. Many travelers must slowly inch forward to reach the heart of the market.

To ensure order and safety, traffic police remain stationed at major intersections, directing the flow of people and vehicles.

Nguyen Thu Ha, a visitor from Hanoi, shared her excitement: “I was afraid that the main festival night would be too crowded, so I arrived early in the afternoon. Every year, I make sure to buy a plant at Vieng Market for good luck.”

Vieng Phu Market is closely tied to the Phu Day Relic Complex, which is dedicated to Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh. Many visitors combine their trip to the market with a visit to the sacred site, offering prayers and seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and business success.

Trong Tung