On the afternoon of 31/8, many visitors began setting up camp on Hung Vuong Street, known for its excellent parade views, to secure a good spot for the 2/9 parade. Three strangers—Nguyen Thi Thuy from Lai Chau, Pham Xuan Su from Ninh Binh, and Pham Thi Len from Hung Yen—became fast friends, agreeing to watch each other's belongings while they took turns attending to personal needs or buying supplies, as they were all attending the event solo.

Ms. Thuy arrived in Hanoi on 29/8, watched the rehearsal on 30/8, and rented a room for one night before joining the street campers for two days. She proudly displayed her provisions: mung bean cakes, dried food, bottled water, and a portable fan and phone battery, which she planned to use sparingly due to the lack of charging facilities.

From left to right: Ms. Len, Mr. Su, and Ms. Thuy camping on Hung Vuong Street on the afternoon of 31/8. Photo: Tu Nguyen

From left to right: Ms. Len, Mr. Su, and Ms. Thuy camping on Hung Vuong Street on the afternoon of 31/8. Photo: Tu Nguyen

Mr. Su, a veteran, had previously traveled to Ho Chi Minh City on 30/4 to witness the parade commemorating the 50th anniversary of the country's reunification. Having served in the military, he decided to travel alone to Hanoi to see the parade for the 80th anniversary (A80). He packed essentials like scorched rice, dried food, honey, and medication.

"I maintain a regular routine, so sleeping on the streets for two nights isn't a problem," Mr. Su commented, adding that he would feel remiss towards those who had diligently practiced if he didn't make the effort to attend the parade.

About 200 meters away, Ms. Thu Cuc from Thai Binh was determined to endure two days and nights outdoors. Encouraged by her nephew's words, "Will you even be alive to see it in 40 years?", she remained resolute. After about four hours, she admitted to feeling tired but determined to stay.

As evening approached, the atmosphere along the streets grew livelier, particularly on Hung Vuong and Nguyen Thai Hoc Streets. The army-provided tents on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street were about 60% full and expected to fill further on 1/9. Mr. Nguyen Van Nhat, from Hoa Lac, along with his group of 10 adults and children, planned to stay for two nights.

Mr. Nhat explained that the tents offered shelter and proximity to public restrooms, making it more comfortable for the women in their group. While his family wanted to explore Hanoi's attractions or stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, they hadn't had the chance yet. During the afternoon of 31/8, some adults took the children to see the movie "Red Rain," while others held their spot. They planned to continue this arrangement on 1/9, allowing everyone to enjoy the city center.

The tent area on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street on the evening of 31/8. Photo: Tu Nguyen

The tent area on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street on the evening of 31/8. Photo: Tu Nguyen

For meals, the family decided to walk about 1 km to buy boxed meals. Mr. Nhat was surprised that prices remained reasonable despite the holiday, with a filling meal costing only around 40,000 VND.

At Hanoi Railway Station, the tent area was mostly empty on the evening of 31/8. Ms. Nguyen Thu Huong, from Hai Phong, easily found a desirable spot after arriving by train at 6 PM. She explained that her family of three had been unable to find accommodation near the parade route, and hotels further away were priced between 1 and 1.5 million VND per night. So, they opted to camp in the tents upon arrival.

Ms. Huong guarding her family's belongings in front of Hanoi Railway Station. Photo: Tu Nguyen

Ms. Huong guarding her family's belongings in front of Hanoi Railway Station. Photo: Tu Nguyen

Ms. Huong found the station convenient, with access to restrooms, a relatively empty resting area, and a variety of food stalls. However, she still hoped to watch the parade from Nguyen Thai Hoc Street and planned to check for available spots there the next morning.

On 2/9, Vietnam will hold a ceremony and parade to commemorate the 80th National Day at 6:30 AM in Ba Dinh Square. The event will feature a full display of forces: infantry, mechanized units, air force, and navy. The parade will involve nearly 16,000 participants, including 43 marching blocks, 18 stationary blocks, and 14 blocks of military and special forces vehicles.

Tu Nguyen