Originating from the idea of the local people, desiring a place for cultural exchange and connecting to promote tourism, the Farmers' Association of Pa Co commune, in collaboration with the party committee of Cha Day, and the local community, joined hands to construct and develop this new model.

Cultural exchange stage at the night market in Pa Co (Photo: maichau.hoabinh.gov.vn)

Pa Co night market began operating in July 2022. The market is held every Saturday evening, from 6:00 PM to midnight. It features around 10 stalls decorated and designed with a strong cultural identity of Mong people. The design is simple, rustic, yet rich in character with patterns from traditional fabric, Mong flutes, and agricultural products crafted by the locals. The products sold at the market are mainly self-raised, grown, and produced, for example, characteristic vegetables grown in Mong community such as corn, pumpkins, Mong mustard greens, peaches, plums, etc. Additionally, traditional tools such as knives, hoes, sickles, shovels, and mortars made by Mong people, as well as traditional fabric and souvenirs, are also available.

A booth displaying various products at Pa Co night market (Photo: Collected)

Distinctively, Pa Co night market features a dedicated stage for cultural exchange, where performances are self-rehearsed and presented by the local ethnic youth. Among the most captivating acts are the melodious Khen tunes (Traditional instrument) and lively dances of Pa Co Mong boys, showcasing dynamic variations from traditional dances to acrobatic moves, and even headstand position, leaving everyone in awe. In addition to enjoying the performances by the local community, visitors can also take the stage to exchange and showcase their cultural acts. This dynamic interaction enhances the atmosphere of the night market, making it lively, warm, and an ideal environment for cultural exchange and connection.

Culinary delights at Pa Co night market include Thang co (a traditional dish), sticky rice cake, black chicken, grilled corn, etc. Gathering around steaming pots of Thang Co, tourists and locals sip the distinctive corn wine, enjoy the refreshing mountain air and engage in heartfelt conversations. Sometimes, as Saturday night may not meet the demand, many visitors still come on Sunday morning to savor the unique Thang co of Mong people.

Thang co - a highly cherished dish at Pa Co night market. (Photo: Collected)

In addition to the culinary space and stalls, Pa Co night market also provides an area for organizing experiential activities and traditional games of Mong people. Mr. A Pao, the owner of a homestay in Pa Co, said “By establishing and developing the night market model with diverse activities, we aim to make each visit to the market a wonderful experience for tourists.”

 Staying in Hang Kia, Pa Co, visitors can choose quality homestays such as A Pao, Y Sao, Y Mua, A Do, A Dinh, etc. Alongside the well-invested and meticulously cared for accommodation quality, these homestays in the area also organize interesting community activities such as weaving, making traditional paper, and beeswax painting.

Previously, the livelihood of Mong people in Hang Kia and Pa Co relied mainly on agriculture. Now, with innovative approaches, connecting tourism with conservation, and promoting cultural traditions, especially the unique night market model, has contributed to diversifying products and enhancing the appeal of local tourism, providing rich and enjoyable experiences for visitors.