[Hanoi Report] Parade Rehearsal Ahead of Vietnam’s 80th Independence Day

Gunfire and Cheers Echo Through the Capital, Hanoi

Honor Guards Marching in Rehearsal (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, 2025, also marking the country’s 80th anniversary, promises a spectacular celebration in Hanoi! Last Saturday, a large-scale parade rehearsal was held around Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the Old Quarter, giving a sneak peek of the upcoming festivities.

The rehearsal started at 5:00 PM, with temporary road closures around the lake. Crowds of locals and tourists gathered to watch units from the People’s Public Security, Criminal Police, Traffic Police, Mobile Police, Fire & Rescue, Narcotics Investigation, and Administrative Management practice orderly marches and troop formations. Many spectators captured the impressive scenes on their smartphones and cameras.

This event is part of the “Festival for a Peaceful Capital”. Highlights included a high-level security drill: when a simulated attacker appeared, special protection officers shielded VIPs and escorted them to safety, followed by special forces rushing in to neutralize the threat—a thrilling moment that drew the crowd’s full attention.

National Day Schedule (September 2)

Special Police Unit Responding to a Simulated Armed Attack (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

Crowd Gathering to Watch the Rehearsal (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

Protection Officers Shielding VIPs During a Simulated Attack (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

Special Police Unit Marching in the Parade (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

Police Officials Taking a Commemorative Photo at the End of the Rehearsal (Photo: KAISEIWORLD)

• Morning Parade: Starting 6:30 AM from Ba Dinh Square, around 30,000 participants will march in a grand procession.

• Evening Fireworks: Fireworks will light up the sky at five locations, including Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and My Dinh Stadium.

  
  

Tips for Visitors:

• For a close-up view of the parade, head to Ba Dinh Square or along Hoan Kiem Lake.

• For a relaxed fireworks experience, enjoy the show from lakeside cafes or rooftop bars of high-rise hotels.

• Expect traffic restrictions in the city center, so plan ahead and secure your viewing spot early.

  
  

Hanoi is already buzzing with festive spirit! If you’re visiting around September 2, don’t miss this memorable parade and fireworks display—it’s a perfect way to experience Vietnamese culture and national pride.

Good luck!