The best spots to catch Hanoi's National Day parade on September 2

Updated: 11:00, 25/08/2025

Hanoi is preparing for a massive parade, one of its grandest spectacles ever, as the capital marks the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day.

From 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 2, thousands of troops, vehicles and performers will march out of Ba Dinh Square and fan across the city in the parade.

Military personnel and vehicles march on Hung Vuong Street in Hanoi during a rehearsal for Vietnam's 80th National Day parade on Aug. 24, 2025.

For residents and visitors, the question is where to stand for the best view. The parade will split into seven routes, passing landmarks and major intersections before concluding at gathering points across the city.

One of the prime spots is the intersection of Hung Vuong, Nguyen Thai Hoc and Hang Chao streets, where the parade first breaks into different directions. Though the formations can look a little chaotic as units turn, the wide open space makes it a popular choice.

At the Le Duan–Nguyen Thai Hoc crossroads, viewers can catch two parade routes just 1.2 km from Ba Dinh Square. It is a convenient location, though space is tight and it can take time to leave afterward.

Cua Nam junction offers more breathing room, with easy access from Hanoi Station and the Old Quarter. Nearby residents often watch from the upper floors of their homes and shops.

For a bird's-eye view, the Kim Ma–Lieu Giai intersection is hard to beat. Elevated points include Lotte Center, Hanoi Daewoo Hotel and several high-rise apartments, along with metro access from the Nhon–Hanoi Railway line.

Those who want to see tanks and military vehicles should head to Tran Phu–Nguyen Tri Phuong, a quieter stretch lined with embassies and offices, where sidewalks are wider and crowds lighter.

Latecomers can still catch the parade at the Hang Khay–Trang Tien intersection, near Hoan Kiem Lake, where the route nears its end. With plenty of cafés and eateries, it is a family-friendly option that clears quickly afterward.

Organizers have also installed more than 200 giant LED screens at city gateways and public spaces including Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake and My Dinh, so no one misses the spectacle.

Tips for parade day: Arrive several hours early to secure a spot, use public transport, and expect strict traffic controls as streets along the routes will close from the afternoon of Sept. 1.