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

Unlike what you might initially think, Vietnam's “concert Quốc gia” (National Concert) isn't about famous stars performing on stage or spectacular entertainment shows. This creative term recently coined by Vietnamese youth represents their enthusiastic and proud participation in the grand celebration of April 30, 2025 – commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Southern Vietnam and the country's reunification.

But what exactly does the term "National Concert" mean, and what fascinating stories lie behind it? Join CHUS as we explore this uniquely Vietnamese phenomenon!

What is a "National Concert"?

1. Understanding the "National Concert" Concept

First, let's understand what a concert typically is. In the conventional sense, a concert is a large-scale music performance featuring multiple artists that attracts a large audience. Concerts usually feature impressive sound and lighting systems, an energetic atmosphere, and even freebies for attendees.

So why are the recent commemorative events being called "National Concerts" by Vietnam's online community? Here's why:

• Grand scale: The activities celebrating the 50th anniversary of Southern Vietnam's liberation were incredibly extensive, from military parades to spectacular artistic performances.
• Light and sound effects: The celebrations featured lighting and sound systems as impressive as professional music concerts.
• Excitement factor: Spectators, especially young Vietnamese, felt excited and thrilled watching the military formations – similar to the feeling of watching their favorite idols perform.
• Energetic atmosphere: Red flags with yellow stars waving everywhere, patriotic spirit rising high, and national pride prominently displayed in the vibrant atmosphere of the celebrations.

2. Origins of the "National Concert" Slang

The "National Concert" trend began spreading in the latter half of April 2025, as the entire country buzzed with preparations for the rehearsals before the official 50th anniversary celebration of Southern Vietnam's liberation and national reunification.

What's special is that this "concert" didn't just happen over 1-2 days but extended for more than a week until April 30. And it didn't just take place in one location, but across many areas of Ho Chi Minh City – wherever commemorative activities happened, that place became a "National Concert" venue.

The term "National Concert," created by Gen Z, quickly became a social media phenomenon, appearing across all platforms from TikTok and Facebook to Instagram and Threads. Gen Z and the online community created countless interesting content pieces, from videos and images to humorous memes explaining the "National Concert" concept and the activities taking place within this commemorative framework.

"National Concert" taking over social media from late April 2025 (Screenshot)

"National Concert" Trend Sweeping Across Social Media

Military Parades

The military parades and processions were considered the "highlight" of this year's "National Concert." With thousands of soldiers from various armed forces and diverse parade formations participating, this was one of the most attention-grabbing activities.

The military parade was the most anticipated activity of the concert (Screenshot)

Light Shows

Large-scale music performances, fireworks, and a spectacular show featuring 10,500 drones created an unforgettable series of proud moments. This scale truly rivaled domestic music concerts that Vietnamese people typically attend.

The 10,500 drone performance over Ho Chi Minh City's skyline

Meeting the "Stars"

What made "attending the National Concert" even more special was how the military formations were received like idols. Citizens, especially young people, expressed admiration and affection for the soldiers participating in the parade – whom they considered the "stars" of this concert.

Military forces are welcomed everywhere by crowds

This phenomenon created a closer connection between the military and civilians, bringing a positive perspective on the armed forces. Many young people asked to take photos with the soldiers, creating memorable moments and spreading feelings of national pride.

Citizens and military parade forces taking photos together (Screenshot)

Distributing "Freebies"

Just like regular concerts, the "National Concert" also featured "freebies" for attendees. This story originated from images of a soldier bringing candy to distribute to parade spectators as a small gift. From there, the "National Concert freebies" trend was born.

A young soldier distributing freebies to parade spectators

The online community, especially Gen Z, embraced and sought out Vietnamese souvenir gifts and patriotic-themed presents to give to those around them. Small but filled with sentiment and meaning.

"National Concert" freebies beginning to develop (Screenshot)

The Significance of the "National Concert"

A New Approach to State Events

The "National Concert" trend shows an interesting approach to state events. Contrary to what many might think, these events are now eagerly anticipated by young people rather than being ignored. This phenomenon also demonstrates that the patriotic spirit of Vietnamese youth is increasingly growing stronger, not fading away or "losing roots" as many might believe.

"National Concerts" being approached with enthusiasm everywhere (Screenshot)

Growing Patriotic Spirit

Through the "National Concert," we can see that the patriotic spirit of the people, especially the younger generation, continues to grow stronger. This proves that patriotism never goes out of style but increasingly adapts to contemporary culture. It's friendlier, more positive, and therefore more resonant!

Demonstrating National Unity

These formal ceremonies, described in familiar language and spreading widely, help demonstrate Vietnam's great national unity – an immense strength for Vietnam on the international stage.

The images of crowds waiting from the day before, creating a sea of people, sent ripples through online communities everywhere. One can't help but exclaim that "the spirit of Vietnamese people is incredible."

The sea of people welcoming the grand celebration created a concert of unprecedented scale

When Will the Next "National Concert" Take Place?

After the success of the "National Concert" celebrating national reunification, many people are eagerly awaiting the upcoming National Day. According to projections, this will be a large-scale "National Concert Day 2."

However, with positive adaptation from both organizers and participants, national commemorative and entertainment events could potentially become meaningful "National Concerts" in their own right.

The National Day "National Concert" will take place in Hanoi

It's worth noting that the "National Concert" slang also faced some criticism, with claims that young people were being "flippant," disrespecting veterans, or disrupting military formations.

Just like attending any concert, "National Concert" attendees should learn from experience to create a vibrant atmosphere while maintaining enough awareness to keep the courtesy and respect appropriate to the ceremonial nature of these events.

Conclusion

The "National Concert" slang isn't just an interesting term but a noteworthy social phenomenon reflecting changes in how young people approach political-social events. This represents a positive step, helping make traditional values and national elements more relatable to Vietnam's younger generation.

Are you planning to "attend" the next "National Concert"? Keep following CHUS to find gift ideas for freebies that spread the Vietnamese spirit. Or simply to stay updated on interesting articles about handmade gifts, lifestyle, and Vietnamese events!