Celebrating the 72nd Anniversary of Hanoi Liberation Day: The Capital Shines in October
October brings a special sense of pride to Hanoi, recalling a historic autumn that shaped the city’s future. 10 October 2026 marks the 72nd anniversary of Hanoi Liberation Day (10 October 1954–10 October 2026), an occasion to honour the generations who contributed to the nation’s independence and peace, while celebrating the capital’s enduring spirit.
To mark this milestone, Hanoi is hosting a series of cultural, artistic and tourism activities, along with fireworks displays on the evening of 10 October. For residents and visitors alike, it is an opportunity to reflect on the city’s history and experience the atmosphere of Hanoi in autumn.
10 October 1954: A Historic Milestone for Hanoi
Following the victory at Dien Bien Phu and the signing of the Geneva Accords in 1954, preparations began for the takeover of Hanoi. On the morning of 10 October 1954, units of the Vietnam People’s Army entered the city to a joyful welcome from its residents. Streets filled with flags, flowers and smiling faces became lasting images of the day the capital was liberated.
At 15:00 that afternoon, a solemn flag-raising ceremony took place in the presence of military units and a large gathering of local people. The national flag flew above the Hanoi Flag Tower, marking a moment of profound significance and the beginning of a new chapter for the capital.
Seventy-two years later, the meaning of Hanoi Liberation Day extends beyond the pages of history. It is a reminder of the value of peace, the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the shared responsibility of building a better city for future generations.
For those who love Hanoi, the anniversary is also a chance to appreciate its everyday beauty: a familiar street, an old house or a peaceful morning spent with loved ones.
Highlights of the 72nd Anniversary Celebrations
Fireworks at Three Locations on the Evening of 10 October
According to the announced schedule, Hanoi’s fireworks displays will take place from 21:00 to 21:15 on 10 October 2026, at three locations:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: In front of the Hanoi Post Office, Hoan Kiem Ward.
- West Lake: Along the section of Quang Khanh Street directly beside the lake, Tay Ho Ward.
- Van Quan Lake: Ha Dong Ward.
The programme combines high-altitude and low-altitude fireworks with additional pyrotechnic effects. These displays will be among the highlights of the anniversary evening, bringing residents and visitors together as the night sky lights up over the capital.
Special Performances Celebrating Hanoi’s History and Culture
On 10 October, the special artistic programme “Bản Giao hưởng Hà Nội” — “Hanoi Symphony” is scheduled to take place at Ho Guom Opera. Through music and stage performances, the programme traces Hanoi’s journey from the historic autumn of 1954 to the present day, while expressing the capital’s aspirations for the future.
The programme is planned around three chapters: “The Spirit of Thang Long,” “Love for Hanoi” and “The Spring of the Century.” A separate ticketed performance is also scheduled at the venue on 9 October. Those interested in attending should check the organiser’s announcements for admission details.
Also on the evening of 10 October, Den Ba Kieu Flower Garden will host “80 Years — Hanoi’s Heroic Anthem Lives On,” a programme marking the 80th anniversary of the Traditional Day of the Capital’s Armed Forces. The event pays tribute to generations of officers and soldiers and celebrates their contribution to protecting Hanoi.
Cultural and Tourism Experiences Throughout October
The celebrations continue beyond the anniversary itself, with activities showcasing Hanoi’s heritage, local traditions and tourism experiences.
| Event | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi Beverage Festival 2026 | 9–11 October 2026 | Astronomy Park, Duong Noi Ward |
| “Heritage Roots in the Heart of the Capital” | 9–11 October 2026 | Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism |
| Hanoi Autumn Festival 2026 | 16–18 October 2026 | Thong Nhat Park, Hai Ba Trung Ward, and other locations across the city |
With the theme “Hanoi Autumn — A Journey of Emotions,” the Hanoi Autumn Festival features spaces dedicated to heritage, traditional crafts, cuisine, the arts and creative experiences. It offers another opportunity to explore the capital after the 10 October celebrations.
To mark the anniversary, Hanoi is also introducing 72 suggested itineraries for discovering the capital, highlighting its history, culture, architecture, craft villages and cuisine. These journeys offer different perspectives on the city, from familiar landmarks to experiences connected with local life.
Making the Most of Hanoi on 10 October
A memorable visit does not need an overly packed itinerary. Consider spending the daytime exploring a historic site, enjoying a local meal or taking a leisurely walk through the city. In the evening, choose a suitable location to join the anniversary celebrations.
For the fireworks, plan ahead and focus on one viewing area rather than trying to travel between several locations in the same evening. Families with young children or older travellers should prioritise places with convenient access, stay clear of safety barriers and follow instructions from the authorities.
Check Traffic Arrangements Before Setting Out
Under the city’s announced plan, Dinh Tien Hoang Street will be closed between the Tran Nguyen Han junction and the Trang Tien intersection from 18:00 on 10 October 2026 until the fireworks displays have ended.
The fireworks launch area on Quang Khanh Street will also have safety barriers and restricted access. Visitors should check the latest traffic announcements before travelling and allow flexibility in their plans.
Small acts of consideration also help make the celebrations more enjoyable for everyone. Please dispose of rubbish responsibly, respect historic sites, avoid pushing in crowded areas and make room for those who need assistance.
Discover Hanoi with A25 Hotel
Hanoi Liberation Day is an opportunity to look back on the city’s history, but it is also an invitation to discover the capital as it is today: to listen to its stories, experience its daily rhythm and share meaningful moments with the people who matter most.
With hotel locations across different areas of Hanoi, A25 Hotel offers accommodation options to help you plan your stay around your itinerary and preferences.
Whether you are visiting for the anniversary celebrations or simply enjoying an autumn getaway, make time to explore at your own pace and appreciate the moments that make Hanoi special.
Contact A25 Hotel for assistance and reservations:
Hotline/Zalo: 0789 25 25 25 | Call Centre: 1900 6925
Event information reflects announcements available as of 9 October 2026. Schedules and traffic arrangements may change in accordance with updates from the relevant authorities. All times are local.
