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Large crowds gathered on the sidewalks of Hung Vuong and Nguyen Thai Hoc streets, the parade route.
Mr. Dung, 43, arrived with his wife at 2 a.m. on Hung Vuong street. He said they had prepared food and drinks. "It was raining heavily when we left, but we persevered. I came early to find a spot with a good view to see everything." Photo: Vo Thanh
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Many people brought suitcases, bicycles, and personal belongings like clothes, food, and chairs to secure viewing spots along Tran Phu street.
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"I lined up at 3 a.m. to get a good spot and see all the units," Thuy said.
The temperature in Hanoi this morning was around 26 degrees Celsius with light rain. The meteorological agency forecast that the light rain would continue until noon and then stop.
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Despite wearing raincoats, many people excitedly took photos while waiting for the parade.
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People took advantage of every nook and cranny on the sidewalk to save their spots.
"I've been here since 10 p.m. last night to hold my place in line. This is the first time I've seen a parade, so I'm very excited," said Mr. Nam from Quang Ninh province.
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At 8 a.m., the sidewalks of Tran Phu Street were packed with people. Tarps were being rented out for 60,000 VND for a small one and 100,000 VND for a large one.
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A family in raincoats waits for the parade on Tran Phu street.
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Police officers invited people into tents to rest, but many chose to stay on the sidewalk for fear of losing their spots.
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The tents provided for people to rest were also packed.
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People used chairs and bags to hold their places in line on Tran Phu street.
In preparation for the A80 anniversary rehearsal at 8 p.m. on 27/8, the Hanoi Police Department extended the road closure from noon until 2 a.m. the following day. Compared to the August 13 announcement, the road closure and traffic restrictions began five hours earlier, from noon today until 2 a.m. tomorrow.
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Ms. Chi, from Phu Nghia commune (former Chuong My district), arrived on Hung Vuong street with her two children and neighbors at 2 a.m. today to watch the parade.
Duc Dong - Vo Thanh
