As Tet approaches, the sight of street vendors at HCMC’s flower markets braving cold nights to care for and sell flowers moves many hearts. They hope to sell out their stock in time to reunite with families before the New Year’s Eve.
A weary vendor dozes off next to a row of peach trees transported from Thai Binh province to 23/9 Park for sale.
Temporary Lives Amid the City
At 23/9 Park, many vendors have set up temporary shelters with mosquito nets to rest overnight. Most come from Mekong Delta provinces, bringing flowers and plants to the city in hopes of earning enough money to return home for Tet.
Mr. Nguyen Van Truong (65 years old, from Ben Tre), a veteran vendor here, shares: “For nearly 20 years, I’ve been bringing yellow apricot trees to HCMC for Tet sales. This year, I rented three plots in the park for about 10 million VND and spent another 8 million on two truck trips. I hope to sell everything and return home to celebrate with my family.”
Battling Harsh Weather
Nighttime temperatures in HCMC have dropped significantly, forcing vendors to bundle up in blankets or even hang hammocks on trees to catch some sleep. Some opt to sleep on their trucks or plastic chairs beside their goods.
Mr. Nguyen Van Loi (from Ben Tre), despite it being over 1 AM, diligently adjusts the lights for hundreds of yellow apricot trees. “I must ensure the flowers look fresh to attract customers,” he says.
Small Hopes Amid Challenges
This year’s Tet flower season is expected to be bountiful, but demand has dropped significantly compared to previous years. This concerns many vendors who fear they won’t sell all their stock before the New Year’s Eve.
Mrs. Nguyen Thi Hoa (from Ben Tre) confides: “We work hard all year just for this Tet sale. Last year, I had to wait until the last minute to sell everything. I hope this year will be better so I can return home earlier to celebrate with my family.”
Conclusion
The images of vendors braving the cold nights, sacrificing sleep and health to bring fresh flowers for Tet truly touch people’s hearts. Let’s show our support by buying flowers early, helping these workers reunite with their families for a full Tet celebration.
Source: Dan Tri
