Dong Thap: The Unique Charm of Xom Ray Weekend Market

(DTO) Situated in the heart of the fields in Ward 14, My Ngai Ward, Dong Thap Province (formerly Tan Nghia Commune, Cao Lanh District), the Xom Ray weekend market—with its traditional cake stalls and rustic country flavors—is gradually becoming a popular weekend destination for locals and tourists alike.

A MARKET AMIDST THE FIELDS

Every Saturday afternoon, as the sunlight begins to mellow, Xom Ray market springs to life. A small asphalt road, about 3 meters wide and stretching nearly 500 meters, leads into a bustling marketplace. Along both sides of the road, stalls are simply yet neatly arranged; surrounded by cornfields in harvest and lush green coconut palms, the scenery creates a tranquil and intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of the familiar rural markets of the Mekong Delta.

The market features 29 stalls, most of which offer traditional Southern-style cakes such as banh bo (steamed sponge cake), banh da lon (layered pandan cake), banh tam, banh tet (sticky rice cake), banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake) and banh duc man (savory rice cake). In addition, visitors can find rustic grilled dishes such as grilled field rat, grilled beef wrapped in betel leaves, grilled rice paper and grilled fertilized duck eggs. Refreshing drinks carrying the flavor of the countryside — including shaved ice and basil seed beverages — are also popular among visitors.

Ms. Pham Thi Mai (63 years old, a resident of Ward 11, My Ngai Ward) shared that her family has been dedicated to the craft of making traditional cakes for many years. While she typically makes cakes to order daily, since Xom Ray market began operations, she prepares extra varieties every weekend to sell at the market.

"To be ready for Saturday afternoon, I often stay up late preparing the ingredients. It can be quite tiring to finish the cakes and bring them to the market, but seeing customers enjoy them and offer praise makes me very happy. Thanks to this market, I have extra income and the chance to meet many people, which is very heartening," Ms. Mai shared.

In addition to the food stalls, booths selling vegetables, tubers, and fruits also draw significant crowds. Unlike traditional markets, many of the agricultural products here are grown and sold directly by local farmers. From gourds and luffas to garden plums, black beans, and mung beans—everything is neatly arranged and introduced to visitors. A notable feature is the affordable pricing; most shoppers quickly select their items and pay with a smile, rarely haggling, as everyone understands these are the literal "fruits of labor" from the local farmers.

Ms. Le Thi Nien (57 years old, a resident of Ward 14, My Ngai Ward) shared that her family grows various crops such as mung beans, luffas, and sweet potato greens. “Since the market started, I take the opportunity to bring my produce here every Saturday afternoon. It provides extra income and allows me to meet and chat with visitors, which I truly enjoy,” Ms. Nien said cheerfully.

ATTRACTING FOOD ENTHUSIASTS

The market begins to crowd around 3:00 PM and lasts until approximately 8:00 PM. As the afternoon heat fades, groups of tourists from various places arrive in increasing numbers. Some come to savor rustic delicacies, while others simply wish to stroll around and enjoy the fresh air amidst the fields. Many families bring their young children to play, enjoy traditional cakes, and take souvenir photos.

Ms. Tran Thi Hien (47 years old, a resident of Phuong Thinh Commune) noted that although she lives about 10 km away, she visits nearly every two weeks. “What I love most about this market is the airy atmosphere in the middle of the rice fields. Eating cakes while walking and breathing in the cool, pleasant air is wonderful. Plus, seeing the bustling trade among the locals always makes me happy,” Ms. Hien shared.

Beyond provincial residents, many tourists from neighboring localities have sought out the Xom Ray market after seeing introductory clips on social media. Ms. Tran Thi Thuy Ai and her husband, traveling from Can Tho City, said they were curious to experience it after watching several videos online. “Upon arriving, I found the setting very fascinating. Being situated in the fields, the air is fresh and cool. The traditional folk cakes are delicious and the prices are very reasonable. I will certainly return if I have the chance,” Ms. Ai remarked.

Depending on the timing, each market session attracts hundreds to thousands of visitors for sightseeing and shopping. Most tourists are delighted by the rustic dishes that evoke a strong sense of home. Additionally, the market area features a buffalo landscape set amidst the fields for souvenir photos. Traditional folk games, such as ball tossing, and periodic Don ca tai tu (Southern amateur music) performances are also organized, further enhancing the market's appeal.

Beyond its standout folk cakes and nostalgic childhood refreshments, Xom Ray Market holds a special value in the community spirit of the local people. From the bakers and farmers to the small-scale vendors, everyone joins hands to create a market deeply imbued with local identity, contributing to the promotion of the My Ngai image to visitors.

In 2025, due to adverse weather conditions, the market had to temporarily suspend operations. However, recognizing the effectiveness and appeal of this model, local authorities carried out repairs and upgrades to several items, arranging stalls more neatly, renovating the market gate and access road, and improving the Don ca tai tu performance area. Subsequently, the Xom Ray Market Community Tourism Site was officially launched to promote the values of this rural market.

Simultaneously, the My Ngai Ward People’s Committee has intensified efforts to mobilize small traders to ensure product quality, appropriate attire, and polite, civilized, and friendly communication. Vendors are encouraged to strictly comply with operating regulations, list prices clearly, and sell at the listed prices. Emphasis is placed on food safety and hygiene, using fresh ingredients and clean processing to protect consumer health.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Thanh, Vice Chairman of the My Ngai Ward People’s Committee, stated: “Xom Ray Market is held every Saturday to create a space for trading agricultural products and countryside cuisine while developing agritourism experiences. The initial activities have been effective, contributing to the promotion of characteristic products and local potential. Visiting Xom Ray Market, tourists have the opportunity to explore a unique market amidst the rice fields, which recreates a rustic rural space and preserves the lifestyle and soul of a corner of the Southwestern countryside.”

By MY XUYEN
Translated by X.QUANG