What is Vietnam National Day?
Vietnam National Day, celebrated on September 2nd, marks the day in 1945 when President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence from French colonial rule. This historic event took place at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi and established the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Today, it is a national holiday observed with flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and fireworks, symbolizing pride and unity across the country.
History of Vietnam fight for independence
Before we dive into Vietnam National Day celebrations, it’s important to understand the historical background of this significant day. Vietnam’s journey to independence was long and hard-fought, marked by several key struggles against foreign rule.
French colonial rule
The French first colonized Vietnam in the mid-19th century, incorporating it into their Indochina empire. Under French rule, Vietnam’s resources were exploited, with the French establishing plantations and taking control of the economy. The French also imposed their culture and language on the Vietnamese people.
During World War II, the Japanese occupied Vietnam, but they allowed the French to continue exerting some influence. This period of Japanese occupation weakened French control and set the stage for Vietnam’s quest for independence after the war.
Independence day
On September 2, 1945, the leader of the Viet Minh, Ho Chi Minh, declared Vietnam’s independence from French colonial rule. The date was no coincidence – it was also the day Japan formally signed the document to officially surrender to the Allies, marking the end of World War II. Ho Chi Minh stood in Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, where he read the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming Vietnam a free and sovereign nation. This marked the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, an event celebrated every year as Vietnam National Day.
After the Declarations of independence
Although Ho Chi Minh’s declaration was a monumental step towards independence, France refused to accept it. The French, unwilling to relinquish control, fought back, leading to the First Indochina War. In 1954, after France’s defeat at Dien Bien Phu, the Geneva Accords were signed, which temporarily divided Vietnam into North and South.
The years that followed saw the rise of the Vietnam War, with involvement from the United States, until the country was reunified in 1975. The struggles for independence are a vital part of Vietnam’s national identity, and the memory of Ho Chi Minh’s declaration continues to resonate deeply in the nation today.
Celebrations & activities on Vietnam National Day
Today, people across Vietnam celebrate the day when their greatest leader, Ho Chi Minh, declared the nation’s independence. Vietnam National Day, also known as Independence Day, is a time for pride, unity, and reflection on the country’s remarkable journey. If you’re in Vietnam during this time, you’ll notice that the entire country joins in the celebrations with various activities and events that highlight the importance of this historical day.
Holiday & Traveling
Vietnam National Day typically gives people a long weekend with one or two days off, depending on how the holiday falls. It’s a great opportunity for locals to take a short break and travel, so you may notice that popular tourist spots become busier than usual. If you’re planning to visit some of Vietnam’s famous destinations during this time, it’s worth considering that these areas might be crowded, and travel services could be in high demand. We’ll talk more about this later in the article, but it’s good to keep it in mind if you’re planning your trip during the holiday.
Flags Everywhere
One of the most noticeable sights during Vietnam National Day is the sea of red flags with the gold star. You’ll see flags everywhere – hanging from balconies, lining streets, decorating apartment complexes, and even displayed in smaller alleys. It’s a symbol of national pride, and the vibrant display is one of the most striking aspects of the holiday.
Fireworks Displays
In several cities across Vietnam, you can enjoy stunning fireworks displays to celebrate National Day. The fireworks light up the sky, creating a festive atmosphere that locals and travelers alike can appreciate. In larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, these displays can be grand and spectacular, drawing crowds of excited spectators. It’s definitely an event to watch if you happen to be in town!
Parades and Ceremonies
In certain cities, particularly in Hanoi, parades and ceremonies mark Vietnam National Day. The most famous parade takes place in Ba Dinh Square, the very place where Ho Chi Minh declared the country’s independence. You’ll see large crowds gathered to witness the ceremony, as well as military displays, performances, and a deep sense of national pride.
Traveling during the national holiday
Vietnam National Day is the third biggest holiday in Vietnam, following Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and Reunification Day on April 30th. During this time, many people take the opportunity to travel and spend time with family. As a result, popular tourist destinations can become busier than usual, especially with domestic travelers looking to enjoy a long weekend. While the crowds are not as overwhelming as during Tet, you can expect some areas to be quite packed.
However, Vietnam National Day is still manageable compared to Tet, when many businesses, restaurants, shops, and even some tourist destinations close for several days. During National Day, everything stays open, and while places like Sapa, Da Nang, Dalat, and Halong Bay may see more visitors, the holiday itself typically lasts only four days.
This holiday can also be a great time to immerse yourself in local celebrations, watch fireworks, and join the locals in their pride and joy. The atmosphere is lively and festive, and you’ll find that people are incredibly proud of their country and love sharing the experience with travelers.
Tips for traveling during the national holiday
While traveling during Vietnam National Day can be a fantastic experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Places that get very crowded
A key spot that gets extremely crowded during this time is Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi. This is where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence and where his Mausoleum is located. Many people visit the area to pay their respects, which means long lines and large crowds. The adjacent Ho Chi Minh Museum and his former stilt house are also popular attractions. While these sites are incredibly moving and worth visiting, be prepared for the crowds.
Most popular destinations for holiday
Some destinations in Vietnam become particularly popular during the National Day holiday. Da Lat, for instance, has consistently been the most visited destination by Vietnamese tourists during this time. Other top spots include Da Nang, Vung Tau, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, Sapa, and Hue. These places can get busy, so if you’re planning to visit, it’s best to book your accommodation and transport in advance to secure the best options.
Other important national events and holidays in Vietnam
Vietnam has a rich calendar of holidays that celebrate its history, culture, and traditions. While Vietnam National Day is one of the biggest, there are several other key events to know about.
For more holidays and festivals in Vietnam, explore our full list here.
Vietnamese Tet New Year
Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, is the biggest holiday in Vietnam. It marks the arrival of spring and is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and new beginnings. The celebrations last several days, and many businesses close, while people travel home to celebrate with family.
For more details on Tet, check out our guide on Vietnamese Tet New Year.
Reunification Day
Reunification Day, on April 30th, celebrates the fall of Saigon in 1975 and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. It’s a day of reflection on the end of the Vietnam War and the start of a unified country.
For more on Reunification Day, read our article on Reunification Day.
Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, focusing on family gatherings, lantern parades, and mooncakes. It’s also a celebration of the harvest and the full moon.
Learn more about the Mid-Autumn Festival here.
