Hanoi readies for a festive national holiday rush
As Vietnam approaches its 80th National Day on September 2, Hanoi prepares to celebrate with historical reverence and cultural festivities.
THE HANOI TIMES — As preparations reach their peak, the capital city is transforming into a festive and welcoming destination for the anticipated surge in domestic and international visitors.
In close coordination with local authorities, tourism enterprises, and cultural institutions, the Hanoi Department of Tourism is implementing a variety of measures to ensure enriching experiences for all.
New offerings for historic occasion
The annual flag-raising ceremony at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum on Vietnam's National Day is expected to attract many tourists. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
Dang Huong Giang, Director of the Hanoi Department of Tourism, confirmed that preparations are entering their peak phase. "We have launched new tourism offerings, including day tours, culinary trails, suburban excursions, and immersive night experiences. These are designed to showcase Hanoi’s dynamic spirit and rich cultural tapestry," she said.
Hanoi has anticipated a sharp rise in hotel bookings of 30% to 40% higher than last year's numbers in central districts such as Hoan Kiem and Ba Dinh, prompting the city to upgrade infrastructure and expand services. It has introduced new experiences, like evening tours of the Old Quarter and trips to craft villages, to present the capital’s enduring charm in a fresh light.
Behind the scenes, the department has been working to raise standards across the tourism sector. Efforts include training programs for hospitality staff, intensified inspections of accommodation services and pricing, and collaborative efforts with businesses to design appealing stimulus packages.
A focal point of the holiday is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an iconic site of reverence that traditionally draws tens of thousands of people during major national events. Visitors will be greeted with thoughtful gestures, such as complimentary water and bread-small tokens that reflect the capital’s deep-rooted hospitality.
Coordinated effort for seamless experiences
Various art performances will be held during autumn to celebrate Vietnam's National Day. Photo: Pham Hung/ The Hanoi Times
Preparations for National Day extend beyond organizing festivities to include security, traffic regulation, sanitation, and emergency readiness. These efforts ensure that the city runs smoothly, even at full capacity.
Colonel Do Hoang Viet, Deputy Political Commissar of the Mausoleum Protection Command, emphasized the importance of humane service. "Our responsibility goes beyond security, but values of kindness and respect associated with the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh."
The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) is closely involved as well, sharing logistical updates with travel businesses nationwide to ensure optimal visitor guidance and smooth operations.
VNAT Deputy Director Phan Linh Chi said that the agency is working closely with the city to make Hanoi a model for organizing major cultural events.
Flag-raising at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
Key historical destinations have prepared for a surge in visitors, while many hotels in central Hanoi are nearly fully booked and offering special holiday deals to attract more guests.
Ly Nguyen, Director of Marketing & Communications at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, emphasized the value of early engagement. “This is a landmark celebration,” she said. “We’ve curated packages with lake-view rooms for a front-row seat to the fireworks, along with special culinary experiences inspired by Vietnam’s national colors. It’s our way of letting guests feel the spirit of independence, unity, and joy - right from their stay.”
Beyond luxurious stays, businesses are advocating for more thoughtful public planning, such as more rest stops, parking zones, clean public facilities, and cultural events staged throughout the city rather than clustered in the center.
September 2 marks the solemn commemoration of Vietnam’s historic Declaration of Independence, a day that honors the enduring legacy of the nation’s revolutionary struggle and affirms the peace and prosperity achieved in its aftermath.
With flags fluttering, flowers blooming, and Hanoi’s thousand-year-old cultural spirit on full display, the capital is ready to celebrate this momentous occasion with pride, professionalism, and joy. In Hanoi this autumn, history comes alive with every step, and every guest is invited to join the celebration.
