The 80th Anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, 2025, will be marked by a grand national-level military parade and procession at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi.
This year’s event carries significant historical highlights: for the first time, a naval parade will take place; military contingents from five invited countries will participate; and the marching units will debut the new K24-style uniforms.
Notably, the capital city will shine brightly in the evening with high-altitude artistic fireworks displays at five different locations.

1. No Military Review at the 80th National Day Celebration on September 2, 2025

There will be no military review as part of the 80th National Day celebrations on September 2, 2025.
Instead, a commemorative ceremony, military parade, and mass procession will be held at Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, to mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19, 1945 – August 19, 2025) and the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025).

 

2. Forces Participating in the September 2 Parade
According to the organizers' proposal, the parade is expected to involve approximately 40,000 participants, including invited guests, mass organizations, operational forces, and marching contingents.

2.1. Parade Formations

The formations participating in the National Day Parade on September 2 will include:

• Vietnam People’s Army: Featuring units from the ground forces, navy, and air defense – air force.

• People’s Public Security Forces: Including mobile police and traffic police units.

• Mass Organizations: Representing various segments of the Vietnamese people.

• International Delegations: Guest contingents from other countries.

• Thematic Vehicle Formations: Decorated model vehicles carrying symbolic messages.

According to Dân Trí Newspaper, this year's parade will feature more than 15,680 officers and soldiers, divided into a total of 61 formations (18 stationary formations and 43 marching formations). These include:

• 7 all-female military formations: Military Band, Military Medical Unit, Vietnam Peacekeeping Forces, Special Forces, Signal Corps, Ethnic Militia, and Southern Guerrillas.

• 2 all-female police formations: Traffic Police and Special Task Force units.

Each formation typically consists of 120 to 200 participants, depending on the symbolic representation and function of each unit. All participants are carefully selected and undergo months of rigorous training under harsh weather conditions to ensure the parade is solemn and demonstrates the strength and unity of Vietnam.

According to Hoa Học Trò Newspaper, on July 17, over 15,600 officers and soldiers from the armed forces officially entered the final phase of intensive training at National Military Training Center 4 (located in My Duc, Hanoi) in preparation for the parade and procession.

 

2.2. Countries Participating in the September 2 Parade

General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, recently sent invitations to the Defense Ministers of eight countries — Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, Cuba, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan — to attend the 80th National Day celebration.
In addition, five countries — Russia, China, Laos, Cambodia, and Belarus — have been invited to send military contingents to participate in the parade.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated:

"These activities reflect the friendship, solidarity, and close ties between the Vietnamese people and military and those of friendly nations. They also reaffirm Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralization, and diversification — being a friend and a reliable partner to all countries."

 

3. Innovations in the September 2 Parade

3.1. First-Ever Participation of Submarines and Surface Vessels

According to Dân Trí Newspaper, General Nguyễn Tân Cương — Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense — shared:

“A special feature of this year’s parade is that, in addition to the traditional ground formations (marching units, mechanized units, and air force displays), there will also be a maritime formation. This will include submarines and surface vessels from the Navy, Coast Guard, Border Guard, and the Standing Maritime Militia Fleet. The live broadcast of this naval segment will be relayed to Ba Dinh Square.”

The maritime parade force will feature units from the Vietnam People's Navy, Vietnam Coast Guard, combat swimmers, and naval air force. Notably, the Kilo-class 636 submarine from Brigade 189 will participate in a parade for the first time, offering the public a rare opportunity to witness Vietnam’s modern submarine force in action.

General Cương emphasized that this parade is also an occasion to showcase the strength and development of the Vietnam People's Army over the past 80 years, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

 

3.2. New Uniforms for the Female Military Medical Officers

Unlike the traditional green uniforms of the Vietnam People's Army, the new uniforms for the female military medical officers now feature a predominantly white color scheme, accented with navy blue tones inspired by naval aesthetics.

On social media, many female officers from the Medical Corps have shared images of themselves wearing the new attire, drawing considerable attention and praise.
Commenters noted that, compared to the ceremonial uniforms worn during the 50th Anniversary Parade of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification in Ho Chi Minh City, the new design appears lighter and more streamlined, emphasizing mobility and practicality — qualities essential to military medical personnel. The uniform is also seen as better suited to the hot summer climate of northern Vietnam.

 

3.3. The Return of the Male Chemical Corps Unit

According to Hoa Học Trò Newspaper, the Chemical Corps is making its return to the national parade after a 10-year absence. The unit has drawn particular attention with its distinctive uniforms, featuring an eye-catching combination of green and yellow.

To ensure the successful execution of this important mission, the Chemical Corps carefully selected personnel from all three regions — North, Central, and South Vietnam. As a result, the chemical troops began their training as early as April 15, earlier than other units, to ensure synchronization and readiness in formation and discipline.

 

3.4. Installation of 270 LED Screens and 400 Public Address Speakers

The city of Hanoi will deploy a total of 270 LED screens and 400 public address (PA) speakers along major streets, gateways, and public areas to support the September 2 parade and procession. This initiative aims to enable residents — especially those in outlying districts — to watch the event live, while also alleviating traffic pressure on the central area surrounding Ba Dinh Square, where the main celebration takes place.

Details include:

• LED Screen System:

  • 14 screens at 11 locations along three designated parade routes

  • 7 screens at six gateways to the capital

  • 136 screens at public gathering points in wards and communes, prioritizing the use of cultural centers, schools, and stadiums

  • An additional 127 existing LED screens, operated by private enterprises, will be mobilized to broadcast event-related content and public information

• Public Address (PA) System:

  • 400 speakers installed across 200 road segments (1–2 speakers per segment)

  • Speakers spaced every 30–50 meters, covering the entire 10-kilometer parade route

  • Speakers mounted securely on utility or lighting poles, designed to withstand weather conditions and deliver outdoor audio at 80–90 dB

The system will receive live audio and video feeds directly from Ba Dinh Square, transmitted via optical fiber to a series of technical “nodes” installed along the route. Each node will be staffed by on-site technicians 24/7 to ensure uninterrupted operation.

• Operational timeline:

  • Live broadcast: September 2

  • Testing phase: August 20–30

  • Dismantling completed: Before September 7

4. Updates on the Rehearsal Schedule and Locations for the September 2 Parade and Procession

4.1. Schedule of Rehearsals, Preliminary Review, Final Rehearsal, and Official Parade

Date & Time	Activity	Location	Notes
Wednesday August 6, 2025 07:30 AM	Regional Coordination Training	Vietnam National University – Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism	Open to the public
Wednesday August 13, 2025	Full Rehearsal	National Military Training Center 4 (TB4)
Thursday August 21, 2025 09:00 PM	Full Rehearsal	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Sunday August 24, 2025 09:00 PM	Full Rehearsal	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Wednesday August 27, 2025 09:00 PM	Preliminary Review	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Thursday August 28, 2025	Backup	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Saturday August 30, 2025 07:00 AM	Final Review	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Sunday August 31, 2025	Backup	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public
Tuesday September 2, 2025 07:45 AM	Official Ceremony	Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi	Open to the public

4.2. Detailed Grouping for Regional Rehearsals of the September 2 Parade and Procession

1 – Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism Area (Dong Mo, Son Tay, Hanoi):

Includes the following units:

• Air Defense – Air Force Officers

• Navy Officers

• Coast Guard Officers

• Border Guard Officers

• Electronic Warfare Soldiers

• Cyber Warfare Soldiers

• Special Forces Soldiers

• Chemical Defense Soldiers

• Paratrooper Special Forces Soldiers

• Male Militia and Self-Defense Forces

---

2 – Vietnam National University Area (Hoa Lac, Thach That, Hanoi):

Includes the following units:

• Party Flag and National Flag Units

• Red Flag Unit

• Honor Guard of Three Military Branches

• Army Officers

• Logistics and Technical Officers of Defense Industry

• Artillery Soldiers

• Armored Soldiers

• Engineering Soldiers

• Cadets from Military Academies and Military Arts Schools

---

3 – National Military Training Center 4 (Dong Tam, My Duc, Hanoi):

Includes the following units:

• Female Military Band

• Female Military Medical Officers

• Female Signal Corps Soldiers

• Female Special Forces Soldiers

• Female Vietnamese Peacekeepers

• Female Ethnic Militia

• Female Southern Guerrilla Fighters

5. Detailed Program for the September 2 National Day Parade and Procession Celebration 2025

• 06:30 AM: Traditional Torch Relay (Co-organized by the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism)

• 06:45 AM: Flag Raising Ceremony (Organized by the Ministry of National Defense)

• 06:50 AM: Announcement of the event purpose and introduction of distinguished guests (Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism)

• 07:05 AM: Speech by the Leaders of the Party and State

• 07:45 AM: Parade and Procession Program (Managed by the Ministry of National Defense)

• 09:45 – 10:00 AM: Closing Artistic Performance (Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism)

---

6. Route Plan for the September 2 Parade

There are three proposed parade routes:

• Route 1: Nguyễn Thái Học – Kim Mã – Liễu Giai – Quần Ngựa Stadium
  (Includes: Command vehicles, National Military Flag Unit, then at Nguyễn Thái Học intersection splits to the right half of the 25 Military Units and the right half of the Police Units.)

• Route 2: Nguyễn Thái Học – Tràng Thi – Tràng Tiền – Hanoi Opera House
  (Includes: Left half of the 25 Military Units)

• Route 3: Nguyễn Thái Học – Lê Duẩn – Thống Nhất Park
  (Includes: Command vehicles and left half of the 16 Police Units)

Therefore, spectators standing along Route 1 (Nguyễn Thái Học → Kim Mã → Liễu Giai → Văn Cao) will be able to see all military and police units participating in the parade.

Sơ đồ hướng đi diễu binh Quốc khánh 02/09 (Nguồn: Internet)

7. Updates on Events and Activities in August Leading up to the September 2 National Day

7.1. Four Major Concerts from North to South

1. V Concert – Radiant Vietnam

• Organizer: VTV

• Date: August 9

• Venue: Vietnam Exhibition Center, Dong Anh, Hanoi

• Star-studded line-up: Hà Anh Tuấn, Hồ Ngọc Hà, Noo Phước Thịnh, Đen, Trúc Nhân, Tóc Tiên, Hoàng Thuỳ Linh, Hoà Minzy, Phương Mỹ Chi, Rhyder, Quang Hùng MasterD, 2pillz, and special guest NSƯT Xuân Hinh

• Audience: Estimated over 20,000 people

• Ticket prices: From 800,000 to 5,200,000 VND with meaningful ticket names such as Pride, Happiness, Love, Aspiration

2. “National Concert” – The Fatherland in Our Hearts

• Organizer: Nhân Dân Newspaper and Hanoi People's Committee

• Date: August 10

• Venue: Mỹ Đình National Stadium

• Ticket prices: Free admission

3. Wonder Summer 2025: Moments of Wonder

• Date: August 23

• Venue: Vietnam National Exhibition Center (VEC), Dong Anh, Hanoi

• Star-studded line-up: DJ Snake, J Balvin, DPR IAN, The Kid Laroi, Soobin Hoàng Sơn, and Hoà Minzy

• Ticket prices: Starting from 600,000 VND with exclusive gifts such as lightsticks, bags, bracelets, etc.

4. Sao Nhập Ngũ Concert

• Date: August 24

• Venue: Ho Chi Minh City

• Deion: The popular reality TV "Sao Nhập Ngũ" will hold a special concert to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the successful August Revolution and Vietnam National Day (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025). This event aims to honor the noble image of the People's Army soldiers.

• This is a rare chance to bring the experience from small screen to the big stage. Although the line-up has not been officially announced, the organizers revealed that many artists who participated in previous seasons will perform.

• Ticket information, stage layout, and side activities will be updated soon.

7.2. Other Events and Activities

1. Art Program “Hanoi – From the Historic Autumn of 1945”

• Featuring many famous singers, artistic performances, and contemporary dance with 3D Mapping effects

• Time: 8:00 PM, August 15

• Venue: August Revolution Square

2. Premiere of the film “Red Rain”

• Date: August 2

• Venue: Cinemas nationwide

3. Lacquer Painting Exhibition “Spring of Independence”

• Duration: August 10 – September 10

• Venue: Ho Chi Minh Museum

4. Art Program “Hanoi: Forever the Aspiration of Vietnam”

• Time: 8:00 PM, August 31

• Venue: National Exhibition Center

---

8. Tips for Attending the “National Concert” and September 2 Parade

Travel and accommodation:

• If traveling from afar by plane, it is recommended to book your flight and hotel early (preferably from July), as the number of visitors to Hanoi will increase sharply during this period.

• It is not necessary to stay in the Ba Đình area because it will be very crowded and hotel rooms may be difficult to book. You can look for hotels, guesthouses, or homestays in nearby districts such as Đống Đa, Thanh Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm, Tây Hồ, Cầu Giấy, etc. It will take about 15–30 minutes to get to the parade venue.

• Keep updated on information regularly, as some central streets may be temporarily closed to serve the parade.

• .

 

Arrival Time:

To secure a prime spot with a good view, you should arrive between 4:30 – 5:00 AM, as the event usually starts early around 6:30 AM. Compared to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi has many key government offices and administrative buildings, so camping outside may not be easy. However, if you come early within the recommended time frame, you can still find a good position to watch the parade.

Personal Preparation:

• Early September in Hanoi can still be hot and even rainy, so prepare carefully to avoid fatigue while standing outdoors for a long time.

• Bring flags and red hats with yellow stars to cheer for the national spirit. Don’t forget a small umbrella, sun-protective clothing, cooling towels, drinking water, light snacks, and portable power banks for the best parade experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers or soft sandals; avoid high heels or tight shoes that may cause discomfort during prolonged standing or sitting.

• Charge your recording devices (phones, cameras) fully before coming.

Traffic:

• Move early as many central streets will be closed or restricted for vehicles during the parade.

• Hanoi’s inner city is crowded, so expect traffic jams if you plan to attend rehearsals or previews beforehand.

• Minimize use of private vehicles; prioritize public transport (ride-hailing, buses, metro, etc.).

Participation Etiquette:

• Prefer attending in groups for mutual support.

• During the parade, cheer politely without shouting, making noise, or behaving disrespectfully or using inappropriate language.

• Do not push, climb trees, or architectural structures nearby.

• Behave politely and respectfully, especially towards elderly people and war veterans.

• Absolutely do not litter; help maintain cleanliness in the square and all parade venues.

 

The September 2nd Military Parade is a sacred event that embodies patriotic love, national pride, and the spirit of unity of the entire people throughout 80 years of defending and building the nation. It is an occasion to honor the heroic history, affirm national strength and stature, inspire the younger generations, and showcase the determination of the military and people, while deeply reminding us of the value of today’s independence and freedom.

Let A25 Hotel accompany you on your trip to Hanoi to join the September 2nd parade and meaningful activities in the capital — a land with a thousand years of cultural heritage. With many attractive policies, such as a commitment to no price increase during the holiday and surprise gifts, A25 Hotel will bring you a fulfilling holiday experience. Visit the official website of the nationwide A25 Hotel system at a25hotel.com to book your room along with many exclusive offers.