100-year-old Tan Dinh Market in Ho Chi Minh City gets new look with mural paintings

Over the past 10 days, residents and visitors passing Hai Ba Trung Street in Tan Dinh Ward have noticed the vibrant transformation of Tan Dinh Market. 

Large rolling shutters at the front of the market are being covered with colorful mural paintings depicting scenes from the market’s past.

Every evening around 6:00 pm, a group of artists arrive with painting equipment to continue painting the artwork.

According to the People’s Committee of Tan Dinh Ward, the mural project, titled 'Tan Dinh Market – Urban Heritage,' stretches 45 meters and illustrates key milestones in the market’s formation and development from the past to the present day.

The project is part of a broader series of activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Saigon–Gia Dinh officially being renamed Ho Chi Minh City (July 2, 1976 - July 2, 2026), as well as the first anniversary of the establishment of Tan Dinh Ward (July 1, 2025 - July 1, 2026).

The murals are designed in chronological order, portraying the development of the area, the growth of commercial activities, and the cultural significance of the market in urban life.

Local authorities hope the artwork will provide Tan Dinh Market with a lively and attractive appearance while helping preserve local cultural and historical values.

The project is expected to become a new artistic highlight for both residents and tourists visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Phuong, a local resident, said that during a weekend stroll with her family, they unexpectedly came across the newly decorated market and stopped to take commemorative photos.

She shared that the murals create a fresh, dynamic, and visually appealing atmosphere.

She also expressed hope that more cultural activities and creative public spaces would continue to emerge across the city during the celebrations marking 50 years of Ho Chi Minh City bearing President Ho Chi Minh’s name.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the ward will also launch a photo exhibition, a public service campaign connected with administrative reform, a 'morning coffee listening and sharing' program themed 'Tan Dinh – one year looking back,' and community walking events.

In its efforts to build a civilized, green, clean, and safe urban environment, the ward is also restoring historical monuments and ensuring all streets meet standards for urban order and traffic safety.