As the calendar turns to late August, Hanoi is already buzzing with anticipation. Streets are adorned with national flags, banners, and cheerful decorations. Citizens across generations are preparing for one of the most significant public holidays in the country, National Day on September 2, which marks the day in 1945 when President Hồ Chí Minh proclaimed the independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam at Ba Đình Square. This year’s celebration is particularly meaningful, commemorating the 80th anniversary of both the August Revolution and the country’s founding.
Let’s explore what Hanoi has planned to honor this historic occasion.
Grand Celebrations on September 2
The highlight of Vietnam’s National Day celebrations will take place on the morning of September 2, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the country’s Declaration of Independence. The day begins with a solemn commemorative ceremony and a grand parade at Ba Đình Square, the historic site where President Hồ Chí Minh read the Declaration in 1945.
At 7:00 AM, the official ceremony will commence at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, attended by senior leaders of the Party and State, international guests, and veteran revolutionaries. Following this, the military-civilian parade will be launched, featuring tens of thousands of participants representing the armed forces, mass organizations, youth unions, and ethnic groups.
The parade will follow a major route from Độc Lập Street, passing Cột Cờ (Flag Tower), Nguyễn Thái Học, Kim Mã, Liễu Giai, Nguyễn Chí Thanh, Trần Duy Hưng, Trung Hòa, Trần Thái Tông, Nguyễn Văn Huyên, and conclude at the Hoàng Quốc Việt intersection.
Fireworks Light Up the Capital
In the evening of September 2, a dazzling fireworks display will brighten the skies of Hanoi at 9:00 PM, lasting approximately 15 minutes. Fireworks will be launched simultaneously at five major locations:
- Hoàn Kiếm Lake (Sword Lake)
- Thống Nhất Park
- Mỹ Đình National Stadium
- West Lake (Hồ Tây)
- Hồ Văn Quán (Hà Đông)
A live music program will take place at Hoàn Kiếm Lake, enhancing the atmosphere with festive rhythms and patriotic melodies
Cultural Highlights Across the City
In addition to the main parade and fireworks, September 2 will feature a series of artistic and musical performances at key public spaces:
- At Đông Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square (Hoàn Kiếm District), the all-day event “80 năm – Tự hào Việt Nam” (“80 Years – Proud to Be Vietnamese”) will run from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering music, performances, and interactive cultural activities.
- At Mỹ Đình Stadium, the program “Dưới ánh sao vàng” (“Under the Golden Star”) will take place at 7:30 PM, gathering large audiences in celebration.
- At Lạc Long Quân Flower Garden (Tây Hồ District), the show “Bản hùng ca bất diệt” (“The Eternal Epic”) also begins at 7:30 PM, featuring heroic-themed performances.
- At Hồ Văn Quán (Hà Đông District), another large-scale show titled “Vang mãi khúc khải hoàn” (“Forever the Triumph Song”) will also be held at 7:30 PM, honoring the nation’s legacy and future.
Additional Activities Leading Up to National Day
In addition to the main celebrations on September 2, Hanoi will host a series of cultural and artistic events throughout August and early September to mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day.
Art Performances Across Hanoi
In the weeks leading up to National Day on September 2, Hanoi comes alive with a rich array of artistic performances, from deeply moving dramas to festive stage shows, bringing the city's streets and public spaces to vibrant life.
These events include dramatic narratives, patriotic melodies, and powerful visuals that deeply resonate with Hanoi’s spirit. They offer both locals and international friends the chance to dive into Vietnam’s history in a festive, visually compelling, and deeply emotional way.
Honoring History Through Theater
As part of the National Day celebrations, the Vietnam National Drama Theatre will offer free public performances of the acclaimed play “Người đi dép cao su” (“The Man in Rubber Sandals”) on August 26, 28, and 30 in Hanoi.
This historical-revolutionary production is a moving tribute to the generations of Vietnamese who sacrificed for the country’s independence. Through the art of stage performance, it brings to life the spirit of patriotism and humanity, aiming to inspire national pride and a sense of shared responsibility among today’s audiences.
Known for its emotional depth and simplicity, the play depicts Vietnam’s journey from wartime hardship to hard-won peace. It vividly portrays soldiers, civilians, and moments of historic transformation, reminding viewers of the values and resilience that have shaped the nation.
Special Film Screenings Across the Capital
Hanoi will also host a special film week from August 19 to September 5, spotlighting revolutionary themes through cinema in a joint effort by the Department of Culture and Sports and the Department of Cinema.
Audiences will have the chance to revisit iconic historical and revolutionary films that have left a lasting impact on Vietnamese cultural memory. Titles include Sao tháng 8 (August Stars), Hà Nội mùa đông năm 46 (Hanoi Winter 1946), Hà Nội 12 ngày đêm (Hanoi 12 Days and Nights), Ngã ba Đồng Lộc (The Đồng Lộc T-Junction), Đào, phở và piano (Peach Blossoms, Pho, and Piano), Cánh đồng hoang (The Wild Field).
In addition to regular public screenings, two major cinemas will host a series of free weekend screenings: Kim Đồng Cinema (19 Hàng Bài, Cửa Nam) and 2/9 Cinema (9 Lê Lai, Sơn Tây). These venues will screen selected films every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from August 1 to September 15.