Despite torrential rain sweeping across Hanoi on the afternoon of September 1, thousands of residents and visitors refused to give up their spots along major streets, determined to witness the grand A80 military parade marking the 80th National Day of Vietnam.
Crowds Brave the Rain for a Historic Moment
At around 2 p.m., heavy rain poured down on the capital. Yet on streets such as Kim Ma, Lieu Giai, and Phan Ke Binh, sidewalks were already packed with people staking out the best viewing spots for the next morning’s parade.
Equipped with umbrellas, raincoats, and even makeshift tarps, families, groups of friends, and elderly citizens huddled together to shield themselves from the downpour. Many shared food, drinks, and plastic sheets with strangers, turning the long wait into a communal experience.
“We came early because we wanted front-row seats. Even the rain can’t stop us — this is a once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Nguyen Van Hai, a Hanoi resident who brought his two children to camp out near Ba Dinh Square.
National Spirit Shines Through
The A80 parade is one of the largest celebrations ever organized for Vietnam’s National Day. Thousands of troops, veterans, and civilian contingents will march through Ba Dinh Square on the morning of September 2, accompanied by military vehicles, floats, and cultural performances.
For many, the event is not only a spectacle but also a proud reminder of Vietnam’s history of resilience and unity.
“The atmosphere is incredible. People are singing, waving flags, and cheering even in the rain. It shows how much this day means to the nation,” said Tran Thi Hoa, who traveled from Nam Dinh with her family to attend.
Boost for Tourism and Local Businesses
Hotels and homestays around Hanoi report being fully booked, with many visitors — both domestic and international — planning to stay overnight near the parade route. Street vendors selling raincoats, flags, and snacks have been doing brisk business as crowds continue to gather despite the weather.
According to Hanoi’s Department of Tourism, this year’s National Day holiday has seen a record surge in visitors. Online travel platforms such as Booking.com and Agoda have ranked Hanoi as the top-searched destination for the September 2 holiday, with a sharp increase in international arrivals.
Looking Ahead to September 2
The official A80 military parade will begin at 7 a.m. on September 2 at Ba Dinh Square, featuring representatives from the armed forces, police, youth organizations, and cultural groups. Large LED screens have been set up at key locations to allow those far from the square to watch the live broadcast.
Authorities have advised the public to arrive early, as traffic restrictions and road closures will be in place across central Hanoi from the night of September 1 until after the parade concludes.
For those who braved the rain, the anticipation is worth every drop. “We’re wet and tired, but tomorrow we’ll witness history,” said Le Minh Duc, a 70-year-old veteran standing proudly under his umbrella on Kim Ma Street.
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Source: Vietnam Insider