Vietnam’s National Day celebration: a moving display of patriotism and community spirit
During these days, Hanoi is buzzing with celebrations and a deep sense of shared joy and national pride that transcends generations.
THE HANOI TIMES — As the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day draws near, the streets of Hanoi are alive with energy, unity and heartfelt patriotism.
In the 24 hours leading up to the official commemorations that will begin at 6.30 a.m. on September 2, the streets, where the military and police march by, have been filled with large crowds as people await the historic moment.
The major streets such as Nguyen Thai Hoc, Lieu Giai, Kim Ma and Van Cao are prime viewing spots, packed with spectators since the early hours.
The four girls from Thanh Hoa Province with a sign saying "Proud to be Vietnamese". Excitement fills the air as people gather to celebrate this significant day in the nation's history. Photo: Cong Phuong/The Hanoi Times
A Hanoian remarked on the limited space along the sidewalks, joking, “You have to wake up before the sun to get a good view.”
Indeed, finding a front-row spot is something of a badge of honor for parade-goers.
Among the early arrivals was Le Thi Thuong, a tourist from the central coastal province of Thanh Hoa. With three companions, Thuong arrived in Hanoi on the night of August 31, determined to experience the festivities up close.
“At first, we planned to stay in a hotel, but we failed. So we decided to camp out on the sidewalk of Kim Ma Street,” she said with a smile. “It’s our unique way of expressing our patriotism.”
Despite the discomfort of sleeping outdoors, Thuong and her friends remained upbeat.
“Being part of this shared celebration is an incredible and meaningful event for me. Everyone wants to come together on a day like this to honor the nation,” she added.
What has touched many hearts, including Thuong's, is the generosity of the local residents.
Thuong expressed her gratitude for their kindness: “People have opened their homes to us, letting us use restrooms and offering other small comforts."
"It shows the true Vietnamese spirit of ‘mutual love and assistance’, something so simple yet so profound.”
A group of three girls arrives in Hanoi before sunrise to save their seats on the sidewalks of Hanoi streets for the parade on September 2.
Nguyen Thi Phuong and two friends traveled overnight for nearly 350 km from the central coastal province of Ha Tinh. They arrived at Lieu Giai Street by 4 a.m. on September 1.
“We take turns resting and saving seats,” she said. “One of us gets food, another holds the spot - it’s a team effort.”
Despite the fatigue, Phuong said that the group’s spirits remain high.
“This is a once-in-80-years event. We wouldn’t miss it for the world,” she said.
While waiting, the girls supported one another with snacks, water, and even shared responsibilities to stay safe and comfortable.
“These small gestures reflect something greater,” Phuong noted. “They show the enduring solidarity and warmth of our people.”
As the nation prepares to mark this milestone with grand parades and historic reflections, it is the quiet, heartfelt actions of individuals, both locals and visitors, that have already made Vietnam’s National Day celebration this year unforgettable.
Crowds begin to gather at the Lieu Giai - Kim Ma Intersection, Ngoc Ha Ward on the morning of September 1.
Kim Ma Street comes alive with crowds as the city gears up for National Day.
Spectators sit patiently on the sidewalk of Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, awaiting the festivities.
