For locals, Meo Vac has become an ingrained cultural aspect of their lives. Children, from a very young age, accompany their parents and grandparents to the market. The market is much more than just a place to buy and sell essential products; it’s a place to meet friends and even find life partners.
The nearby Meo Vac Market and Stadium is where the “catching a wife” tradition of the Hmong people takes place.
This practice, where a man surprises a woman to be his wife, usually occurs at fairs and festivals.
The couples participating in this ritual are usually already in love and preparing for their wedding.
“Young men are looking for their future brides, while middle-aged men are often drunk and passed out in the market,” says Nam.
