Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are more than just places to shop for the Lunar New Year; they are an integral part of Vietnamese culture, especially for the people of the North. In the chilly air of late winter, these markets become ideal meeting points where people gather to fully experience the traditional Tet atmosphere. From misty highland markets to vibrant flower markets in the cities, each market carries its own unique characteristics, reflecting the culture, customs, and spirit of the local people.
The Unique Charm of Northern Vietnam Tet Markets
Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets possess a distinct beauty, unlike any other markets across the S-shaped land of Vietnam. This uniqueness stems from the blend of geography, climate, and regional culture. Unlike the year-round bustling and vibrant markets of Southern Vietnam, Tet markets in the North truly come alive in the days leading up to Tet. This is when people rush to shop and prepare for a full and warm Tet holiday.
One of the striking features of Northern Tet markets is the diversity of goods. At these markets, you can find everything from local produce, regional specialties, Tet decorations, ornamental plants, fresh flowers, to items imbued with traditional cultural values. The market spaces are also incredibly varied, ranging from makeshift markets set up along roadsides and highland fairs to markets with hundreds of years of history in the heart of ancient towns.
Beyond being places of commerce, Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are also unique cultural spaces. They host entertainment activities, folk games, and traditional art performances, creating a festive and bustling atmosphere. Tet markets are also opportunities for people to meet, socialize, exchange year-end stories, and send best wishes for the new year.
Exploring Famous Tet Markets in Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is renowned for its many unique Tet markets, each carrying its own distinct flavor and story. Here are a few typical Tet market destinations that you shouldn’t miss:
Dong Xuan Market: The Symbol of Hanoi’s Tet Market
When it comes to Tet markets in Northern Vietnam, Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi’s oldest and largest markets, is a must-mention. Dong Xuan Market is not only a bustling commercial center but also a cultural and historical symbol of the capital. During Tet, Dong Xuan Market dons a new look, brilliantly colored with Tet goods.
From mid-December in the lunar calendar, the atmosphere at Dong Xuan Market becomes noticeably more bustling than usual. Stalls display all kinds of Tet decorations such as lanterns, red couplets, Tet paintings, handicrafts, candies, and Tet jams. The dominant colors of Dong Xuan Tet Market are red and yellow, symbolizing luck, wealth, and prosperity.
A special feature of Dong Xuan Market is the diversity of goods and affordable prices. You can find everything you need for Tet here, from luxurious Tet gifts to small, lovely decorations. Dong Xuan Market attracts not only Hanoians but also visitors from all over who want to experience the traditional Tet atmosphere of Northern Vietnam.
Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi during Tet
Dong Xuan Market, vibrant with colors during Tet, is where Hanoians come to shop and feel the spring atmosphere.
Vieng Market: A Spiritual Fair for Good Fortune
Vieng Market in Nam Dinh is a special market, deeply imbued with spiritual and traditional cultural elements. Vieng Market is not held regularly but only once a year, on the night of the 7th and the morning of the 8th day of the first lunar month. This is a market to pray for good luck at the beginning of the year, attracting tens of thousands of people from all over to shop and wish for a peaceful and prosperous new year.
Vieng Market does not sell luxury or expensive items but mainly agricultural products, simple handicrafts, seedlings, worship items, and items with spiritual meanings. People who go to Vieng Market do not prioritize buying and selling for profit but mainly to experience the atmosphere of this special market and pray for good luck for themselves and their families.
A unique aspect of Vieng Market is the custom of “buying luck and selling misfortune.” Both sellers and buyers believe that trading at Vieng Market is to exchange luck and receive new year blessings. Therefore, the buying and selling atmosphere at Vieng Market is very relaxed, without bargaining or jostling. People come to the market with a joyful and harmonious spirit, enjoying the early spring festival atmosphere together. Vieng Market is not just a market but also a unique spiritual cultural festival of the Northern Delta region.
What to Buy at Northern Vietnam Tet Markets?
Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are a shopping paradise with countless choices. Here are some suggestions for items you can find at Northern Vietnam Tet markets:
- Tet decorations: Lanterns, red couplets, Tet paintings, parallel sentences, firecrackers (paper), decorative strings, lucky money envelopes… These are indispensable items for decorating homes and creating a vibrant Tet atmosphere.
- Ornamental plants and Tet flowers: Peach blossoms, apricot blossoms (Northern Vietnam has Nhat Tan peach blossoms, wild peach blossoms), chrysanthemums, kumquat trees, mini ornamental plants… Ornamental plants and Tet flowers bring fresh spring colors and good feng shui meanings to the family.
- Regional specialties: Each region in Northern Vietnam has its own specialties, such as Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake), Gio Cha (Vietnamese sausage), Nem Chua (fermented pork roll), Mien Dong (cellophane noodles), sticky rice variety “Nep Cai Hoa Vang,” various traditional jams and candies… These are meaningful gifts to give to relatives and friends and are also indispensable delicacies in the Tet feast.
- Handicrafts: Handicraft products such as Bat Trang ceramics, Van Phuc silk, bamboo and rattan weaving, carved wooden items, Dong Ho paintings… These are unique gifts, imbued with traditional cultural values, reflecting the sophistication and skill of Vietnamese artisans.
- Spiritual items: Incense, candles, joss paper, worship items, feng shui items… These are necessary items for ancestor worship and praying for luck and peace in the new year.
Experiencing the Culture of Northern Vietnam Tet Markets
Visiting Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets is not just about shopping but also about embarking on a unique cultural experience. You will immerse yourself in the bustling Tet atmosphere, feel the warmth and friendliness of the local people, and discover the beauty of traditional culture.
- Explore Tet market cuisine: Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are a street food paradise with countless delicious dishes such as fried donuts, pillow cakes, Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers), Bun Rieu (crab noodle soup), Pho, and traditional snacks… Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the typical delicacies of the Tet market.
- Participate in folk games: Many Tet markets in Northern Vietnam organize folk games such as blindfolded pot smashing, tug-of-war, throwing conical hats, swinging, Quan Ho folk singing, lion dances… Participating in these games will help you feel the festive atmosphere and traditional culture more clearly.
- Admire and take photos: Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are a space filled with vibrant colors and rich in culture. Take time to stroll around the market, admire the stalls, the activities taking place, and capture memorable moments with beautiful photos.
- Interact with locals: Tet markets are where many locals gather. Be open to communicating and chatting with them to learn more about the culture, customs, and lives of the people here.
Conclusion
Northern Vietnam’s Tet markets are not just shopping destinations but also a part of the soul of the Vietnamese traditional Tet holiday. They not only preserve traditional cultural values but are also places for people to return to their roots, feel the warm Tet atmosphere, and exchange best wishes for the new year. If you have the opportunity to visit Northern Vietnam during Tet, don’t forget to visit the unique Tet markets to experience and discover the distinctive cultural beauty of this land. Surely, the experiences at Northern Vietnam Tet markets will be unforgettable memories in your spring travel journey.