Vietnam marks 80 years of independence with Happy Vietnam exhibition

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam’s pursuit of happiness and progress took center stage this week with the opening of Happy Vietnam, an immersive exhibition celebrating 80 years of national independence.

Held at the Vietnam Exposition Center in Hanoi's Dong Anh Commune, the showcase forms part of the broader Exhibition on 80 Years of Socio-Economic Achievements that runs until September 5, and highlights the country’s development through a fusion of art, technology and cultural expression.

The Happy Vietnam exhibition features 150 photographs and 30 videos, brought to life with 3D mapping, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and Metaverse technologies.

The artworks are grouped into three themes - "Happy Land", "Happy People" and "Happy Moments" - selected from more than 20,000 submissions contributed by Vietnamese and international creators via the digital platform Vietnam.vn.

Visitors can explore a multi-layered digital map spanning 34 provinces and cities, retracing eight decades of growth.

A miniature model of the once-familiar public loudspeaker system, historically used to broadcast official announcements, adds a nostalgic touch.

The exhibition also highlights a collection of 1,000 folk art gifts crafted by participants, alongside 29,220 commemorative items imprinted with the Happy Vietnam logo. 

According to Tran Tuan, a representative of the Department of Grassroots Information and External Communication under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the figure 29,220 represents 80 years multiplied by 365 days.

Among the commemorative items are notebooks and calendars reflecting Vietnam’s cultural identity.

The examples include the “80 Years + S” notebook, symbolizing continuous learning; the “34 Provinces” notebook, celebrating cultural diversity; and the “Happy Vietnam” notebook, representing the hopes of the younger generation.

Traditional arts also play a prominent role. Lacquer paintings by folk artisans are on display, including a recreation of King Ly Thai To’s Capital-Moving Decree, which transferred the nation’s capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi) in early 11th century.

Visitors can also try their hand at folk painting, taking home their own handcrafted piece as a keepsake.

 A Tree of Happiness allows participants to share personal messages, while a digital mosaic Map of Happiness, made up of 800 puzzle pieces, invites contributions from visitors. Photo booths add a contemporary element to the celebration.

Through these activities, the organizers want to spread a message that happiness is a national aspiration reflected in everyday moments of progress.

Running until September 5, the exhibition offers a vibrant lens into the nation’s journey - one where collective well-being lies at the heart of development.