With a history spanning hundreds of years, Vieng Market is closely tied to the worship of Mother Goddesses—a distinctive spiritual tradition of the Vietnamese people. In Nam Dinh, the market is held in two main locations: Vu Ban District and Nam Truc District. Vụ Ban is renowned for the Phu Day relic complex, dedicated to Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh, one of the “Four Immortals” in Vietnamese folk beliefs. Meanwhile, Vieng Market in Nam Truc, also known as Nam Giang Vieng Market, is vibrant and diverse, featuring a wide array of traditional handicraft products.
What makes Vieng Market truly special is the spirit of “buying luck, selling away misfortune”. Buyers come here without haggling for low prices, and sellers aren’t focused on making profits. Every item purchased—be it a hoe, a potted plant, or a small statue—is seen as a token of good fortune for the new year, carrying hopes for luck and prosperity.
Among the many products sold, Vieng Market’s beef is a must-try speciality. It is believed that eating beef during the market days will bring good fortune throughout the year. This beef is not only delicious but also symbolises wishes for health and peace.
This year, Vieng Market 2025 will be held on February 14-15, 2025 (Gregorian calendar), with meticulous preparations by local authorities. Parking areas have been expanded, and traffic has been carefully managed to prevent congestion. Nearly 500 police officers and support staff will be on hand to ensure security and create a safe environment for visitors.
Notably, this year’s market introduces modern updates to keep up with the times. For the first time, several stalls will offer cashless payment options via QR codes and e-wallets, making shopping more convenient. The market layout has also been clearly organised, with dedicated zones for agricultural tools, ornamental plants, handicrafts, and food.
Beyond commerce, Vieng Market serves as a cultural hub. Visitors can enjoy performances of traditional ‘hat van’ (spiritual singing) and ‘hat cheo’ (traditional opera)—intangible cultural heritages of Nam Dinh—held right within the market. Additionally, a tree and plant competition will be a highlight, drawing skilled artisans from across the country to showcase their creations.
Vieng Market is also a place where families and friends come together to soak in the spring atmosphere. From elderly shoppers selecting worship items, middle-aged patrons choosing ornamental plants, to children eagerly enjoying local delicacies, everyone contributes to a vibrant and lively scene.
The atmosphere of Vieng Market is filled not only with the bustling sounds of chatter and trade but also with quiet moments of heartfelt prayers for a prosperous new year. At Vieng Market, each person finds peace of mind, where hope and belief are conveyed through even the smallest yet meaningful items.
In 2025, Vieng Market is not only a destination for those who love traditional culture but also appeals to young people eager to explore the blend of ancient charm and modern touches. It is an opportunity for everyone to reconnect with their roots and immerse themselves in the sacred and warm early spring spirit.
Vieng Market is more than just a market, it is a cultural symbol, a place that fosters community bonds, and a medium for spreading messages of humanity and faith in a peaceful, prosperous new year. If you have the chance, visit Vieng Market to fully experience the essence of a Vietnamese spring and send your best wishes for the year ahead.
