Vietnam National Day Parade 2025: Complete Guide For Visitor!

September 2nd marks Vietnam's Independence Day, when Ho Chi Minh declared independence from French colonial rule in 1945 at Ba Dinh Square - the heart of Hanoi and  Vietnam's most sacred political site.

Eighty years have passed, the heroic stories still echo, and national pride continues to pulse through every heartbeat of the Vietnamese people. Following the success of the April 30th Liberation Day events, Vietnam will once again come alive with the September 2nd military parade and march in Hanoi - a brilliant highlight in the upcoming nationwide commemoration.

Let's explore with CHUS the detailed events and prepare to join the great national unity during this historic celebration!

Image 01. Military parade and march on September 2nd in Hanoi capital

Detailed Route for the Vietnam National Day Parade in Hanoi

After completing the ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, the Vietnam National Day parade contingents will move through central Hanoi streets. The groups will split into 7 different directions to reach their assembly points.

Image 02. Infographic showing departure points for the military parade and march on September 2nd

Details are as follows:

Image 03. Detailed infographic of parade routes for the September 2nd military parade and march

Rehearsal & Final Rehearsal Schedule for the Vietnam National Day Parade

Besides the official ceremony, the rehearsal and final rehearsal days for the Vietnam National Day parade also provide opportunities for locals and international visitors to watch. Here's the detailed schedule for the military parade and march.

Image 04. Detailed infographic of rehearsal & final rehearsal schedule for the September 2nd military parade and march

Best Viewing Locations for the Vietnam National Day Parade You Can't Miss

Based on the detailed route, here are the best locations in Hanoi where visitors and tourists can consider watching the military parade and march:

Main parade routes on September 2nd: Nguyen Thai Hoc, Trang Thi, Hang Khay, Trang Tien, August Revolution Square.

Route sections include:

• Nguyen Thai Hoc, Kim Ma, Lieu Giai, Van Cao, Quan Ngua Sports Complex
• Nguyen Thai Hoc, Le Duan, Thong Nhat Park
• Cua Bac, Au Co, Duong Lang - Tran Duy Hung - Thang Long Boulevard - Le Quang Dao - F1 Racing Circuit

Particularly, areas around West Lake offer excellent viewing positions where visitors can also catch glimpses of the celebratory aircraft flyover.

Schedule for the 80th Independence Day Commemoration Ceremony in Hanoi

The 80th Independence Day commemoration ceremony in Hanoi will feature more than just the Vietnam National Day parade. The day will include heroic rituals and proud speeches about this historic moment.

Here's the detailed schedule of activities during the 80th Independence Day commemoration ceremony in Hanoi for convenient planning:

Image 05. Detailed infographic of the 80th Independence Day commemoration ceremony in Hanoi, military parade and march on September 2nd

List of Fireworks Display Locations for National Day in Hanoi

On the evening of September 2nd, we'll relive the joy of this historic moment. The Hanoi night sky, and Vietnam in general, will light up brilliantly to honor and celebrate a wonderful chapter in our nation's history.

Here's the list of fireworks display locations for National Day in Hanoi:

Image 06. Infographic listing fireworks display locations for September 2nd, military parade and march on September 2nd

Important Notes for Attending the 80th Independence Day Commemoration in Hanoi

This is one of Vietnam's most significant cultural events. As a foreign visitor, you'll witness an authentic display of Vietnamese patriotism and national unity. The ceremony is conducted entirely in Vietnamese, but the visual spectacle speaks universally.

Joining the atmosphere of the 80th Independence Day commemoration ceremony is something many people eagerly anticipate. However, to ensure a truly pleasant and safe experience for yourself and those around you, here are some important notes for locals and international visitors:

1. Weather Conditions

Weather forecast for Hanoi on September 2nd shows quite favorable conditions for traveling and participating in the Vietnam National Day parade. According to AccuWeather, the capital's temperature will be around 30°C (86°F), with clear and mild sunshine. However, there's still a slight chance of light rain.

To avoid any issues, you should prepare umbrellas and light raincoats when attending this ceremony.

2. Personal Health Considerations

The event may last several hours, with military parade activities, National Day marches, and cultural performances. If you have underlying health conditions or difficulty standing for long periods, consider choosing comfortable seating areas or watching the live television broadcast of the military parade to ensure your well-being.

Travel Tip: Bring water and light snacks, as food vendors may be limited near the ceremony areas.

Considering the weather conditions and your health, please participate in the anniversary celebration safely. (Photo: Internet)

3. Large Crowd Attendance

The National Day ceremony at Ba Dinh Square extending to many streets will attract numerous locals and international visitors. You need to mentally prepare for slow movement and follow security personnel guidance to avoid crowding.

Cultural Note: Vietnamese people are generally very welcoming to foreign visitors during national celebrations. Don't hesitate to ask for help - many locals speak basic English.

4. Theft Prevention

Dense crowds provide opportunities for pickpockets. Keep backpacks/bags in front, store valuables in hard-to-reach positions.

For International Visitors: Keep your passport in a secure place and carry photocopies instead.

Prepare for all risks due to crowded conditions at the military parade and march event on September 2nd (Image from April 30th event)

Complete Guide to Attending the Vietnam National Day Parade in Hanoi

1. Preparation for Fully Enjoying the Commemoration

• Neat attire respecting the ceremonial atmosphere: Light-colored, breathable clothing; flat shoes or sandals. Head scarves are recommended instead of wide-brimmed hats that might obstruct others' views.
• Protect personal belongings: Cross-body bags or small front-worn backpacks, bring only necessary cash.

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• Drinks and quick snacks: A cool water bottle in an insulated container, some energy drinks and convenient quick foods for immediate energy when needed.
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2. During the Vietnam National Day Parade Viewing

• Maintain order, don't push and follow security personnel guidance
• Take photos and videos from safe positions; don't climb dangerous spots or block others' views (structures, trees)
• If traveling in groups, set clear meeting points; for children, attach contact information to backpacks or wristbands. Only bring young children when families have enough people to supervise!

Behave civilly so the military parade and march on September 2nd proceeds perfectly

3. After the Event

• Move slowly, following directional guidance to avoid congestion
• Collect trash and dispose properly, including water bottles or small tissues
• Share meaningful moments on social media - these aren't just personal memories but also help spread beautiful images of the Capital and the nation's grand commemoration day

List of National Day Celebration Activities on September 2, 2025 in Major Cities

September 2nd - a national celebration where everywhere rejoices with cultural and artistic programs. This year's focus is Hanoi capital with numerous activities awakening national pride.

1. Activities Celebrating the 80th Independence Day in Hanoi

Besides the Vietnam National Day parade and National Day fireworks, Hanoi welcomes September 2nd with "national concert" level events:

Special Art Program "Hà Nội - Từ mùa thu lịch sử năm 1945" (Hanoi - From the Historic Autumn of 1945)

• Time: 8:00 PM, August 15, 2025
• Location: August Revolution Square

Art Program "Tự hào là người Việt Nam" (Proud to be Vietnamese)

• Time: 8:00 PM, August 17, 2025
• Location: My Dinh National Stadium Square

Poster for the art program "Proud to be Vietnamese" (Photo: Internet)

Photo Exhibition "Một dải non sông" (A Strip of Mountains and Rivers) and "Biển của lòng người" (Sea of Human Hearts) Photo Book Introduction

• Time: 9:30 AM August 15, 2025 - September 15, 2025
• Location: Hoan Kiem Cultural Information Center (2 Le Thai To)

National Achievement Exhibition ""80 năm hành trình độc lập – Tự do – Hạnh phúc" (80 Years of Independence - Freedom - Happiness Journey)

• Time: August 28 - September 5, 2025
• Location: National Exhibition Center, Dong Anh

2. Activities Celebrating the 80th Independence Day in Ho Chi Minh City

The most prominent activity in Ho Chi Minh City during National Day is the artistic fireworks display:

• Time: 9:00 PM - 9:15 PM, September 2, 2025
• Location: Saigon River Tunnel entrance (Thu Duc City) & Dam Sen Cultural Park
• Content: High and low-altitude fireworks display combined with music, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Currently, areas are also beginning to hang flags and banners throughout streets and residential areas to create a festive atmosphere.

Everywhere joyfully welcomes the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's Independence Day (Photo: Internet)

3. Other Provinces and Cities

Many cultural and artistic activities at provincial levels are planned, with an expected 34 provinces and cities organizing National Day fireworks celebrating September 2nd.

>>> Read more: What is Vietnam's "Concert Quốc gia"? Decoding the Phenomenon Captivating the Entire Nation

Attending the National Day Commemoration Civilly and Properly!

Remember the April 30th commemoration: alongside the pride of great national unity, there were still regrettable images. People crowding, setting up tents, placing chairs, even leaving shoes to "save spots"; some pushed others down just for a good position.

Without debating who's right or wrong, good positions may excite people, but commemorations are occasions to display civilization and respect. Instead of competing, here are some things the author believes will help the Vietnam National Day parade proceed more beautifully:

• Thoughtful but limited: If arriving early to choose spots, proactively share with veterans, elderly people, and children around you.
• Gentle behavior: If situations become crowded, remind others with gentle words instead of tense reactions.
• Spread good inspiration: Moments when people wait together to directly watch the parade, like singing the national anthem, create more memorable shared atmosphere than the "many spots" we try to secure.

Working together to make a civilized and proper National Day commemoration ceremony! (Photo: Internet)

Exchanging smiles, handshakes, and small gifts - wouldn't that be more beautiful? After all: The Ultimate Guide to Giving Gifts for Vietnam’s National Day

Conclusion

On September 2nd in Hanoi, Ba Dinh Square will be covered with flying flags, drum beats urging rhythm, and each footstep echoing like the heartbeat of the entire nation. Each of us, standing amid the Vietnam National Day parade, will be witnesses and part of the heroic song continuing to be written.

Among the bustling crowds, among the eyes of veterans, we feel pride, reverence, and civilized consciousness spreading. Every cheer, every smile, every glance are pieces creating the vitality of this national celebration.

CHUS wishes you a September 2nd National Day filled with heroic spirit, brilliant with emotions, and complete with the lasting resonance of national pride.

Trent

Vietnam Culture & Life Writer

14:06 14/08/2025

Trent reads, meets, and learns to write about Vietnamese culture. His writings explore the diverse facets of life in Vietnam.

All articles by Trent

FAQs

• When will the Vietnam National Day parade and march take place in 2025?
  The parade and march will take place on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi.
• How many years does September 2, 2025, commemorate?
  Commemorating the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025).
• Will there be a military review on September 2, 2025 in Vietnam?
  No, there will be no military review in 2025. Instead, the parade and march will be held at Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, featuring armed forces and civilian groups.
• What events will take place in Vietnam on September 2, 2025?
  Commemorating the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025). In addition to the parade and march, there will be cultural, artistic, sports events, and exhibitions across various localities.
• How many days off are there on September 2, 2025?
  Workers are entitled up to 4 consecutive days off from Saturday (August 30) to Tuesday (September 2, 2025).