At the Traditional Festival of General Le Chan 2026 taking place from March 25-27, in Hai Phong city, the appearance of the "Ven village" rural market is not only a simple restoration activity, but also an effort to recreate a cultural space rich in identity.
In the modern flow, the market evokes memories of the ancient Northern countryside, a place where economic activities are closely associated with community spiritual life.
Ven Market" is the ancient name of An Bien village in ancient times, now belonging to Dong Trieu city, Quang Ninh province, associated with the childhood and growth process of General Le Chan. Organized around the area of the statue of General Le Chan, the market space quickly became a stop attracting a large number of people and tourists.
Passing through the welcome gate built of straw and bamboo, the participants seemed to separate from the urban rhythm to step into another world - slowly, closely and imbued with tradition, right in the port city of Hai Phong.
Rows of leaf roofs, bamboo poles, and familiar items such as trays, baskets, and nia are cleverly arranged, vividly recreating the old rural market space. The aroma of banh duc, banh xu xue, chrysanthemum tea... spreads, awakening familiar memories of a long-standing agricultural culture.
This year's fair impresses with investment in recreating intangible cultural values. At many booths, artisans directly demonstrate traditional crafts such as figurine making, calligraphy writing, and handicraft weaving. Skillful and meticulous operations not only show skills but also convey cultural values accumulated through many generations.
Quan Ho melodies, Xam singing, Chau Van singing echo in the simple leaf roof, sometimes trầm lắng, sometimes da diết. Heritage therefore becomes close, no longer an abstract concept but present through the vivid experience of the participants.
People and tourists not only visit and take photos but also directly enjoy cuisine and experience cultural activities at the fair.
Ms. Hua Lan (42 years old, Lach Tray) shared: "I have lived in Hai Phong for many years but rarely see any space that clearly recreates the soul of the countryside like this market. From the way the stalls are arranged, rustic dishes to the bustling atmosphere, everything is very close and familiar.
Sitting eating crab noodle soup under the leaf roof, listening to folk songs, I feel like I am returning to childhood in my hometown. Not only going to festivals, this is truly a very meaningful cultural experience, helping us understand and love the traditional values of our homeland more.
The restoration of "Ven Market" does not only stop at recreating a traditional form of economic activity, but also contributes to awakening core cultural values in the context of urbanization.
The "once in a year" rural market closes but leaves many aftertastes. Not only is it a highlight in the festival, "Ven Market" is also a reminder of the responsibility to preserve heritage, thereby aiming to make traditional culture a resource for the sustainable development of modern cities.
