Today In History: Vietnam National Day

Independence Day is a significant historical, political, or cultural occasion for every nation since it reflects that nation's current standing. This festival is largely responsible for the founding of most nations.

Similar to how in Vietnam, the genesis of this holiday, now known as Vietnam National Day, dates back to 1945. Thousands of people gathered at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi on September 2 to hear Ho Chi Minh, the country's first president, deliver the Declaration of Independence, which declared Vietnam free of French colonial rule. Since that time, the Vietnamese people have celebrated this significant milestone every year in the same way. Additionally, this unique occasion strives to remember Vietnam's Independence after one hundred years of French colonialism. 

WHAT IS VIETNAM NATIONAL DAY?

The occasion commemorates the day in 1945 when Vietnam formally became a nation. In a gathering on Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi on September 2, 1945, President Ho Chi Minh recited the Declaration of Independence. President Ho Chi Minh announced the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam to the people of Vietnam and the rest of the world in the declaration.

The Communist Party led the Viet Minh Front, which was headed by Ho Chi Minh. Vietnam's declaration of independence was proclaimed after he persuaded Emperor Bao Dai to cede his throne in order for the country to establish its own nation. Despite the nation's declaration of independence from France at the time, France resisted giving up its hold on the area.

A coalition administration was chosen over a wholly communist one soon after independence was declared by Ho Chi Minh and the commander of over 200 000 Chinese Nationalists. A new deal was quickly struck with France, designating the country as an autonomous state inside the French Union.

The Vietnamese subsequently started fighting with the French once more, despite the fact that that deal was intended to push the Chinese out.

HISTORY OF VIETNAMESE NATIONAL DAY

Vietnam joined French Indochina in 1887. Vietnam was overrun by the Japanese during World War II.

Ho Chi Minh declared the foundation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945, following the "August Revolution," which marked the end of the war (North Vietnam).

Although there were growing tensions between the USA and Vietnam, the Vietnamese declaration of independence itself extensively borrowed from the American version.

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam, which was formed in 1976 after the two sides of Vietnam were finally unified, is still known for being the pivotal day in Vietnam's struggle for independence.

WHEN IS VIETNAMESE NATIONAL DAY?

It is customary to observe this holiday on September 2.

Vietnam's declaration of independence from France on this day in 1945 is commemorated on this day. It is Vietnam's national holiday.

HOW DOES VIETNAM CELEBRATE NATIONAL DAY?

Speeches, parades, fireworks displays, and other celebrations mark Vietnam's national day, with a sizable march taking place at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, the site of the country's Declaration of Independence.

This is a particularly patriotic event, with the Vietnamese flag flying high and huge posters of Ho Chi Minh (also known as "Uncle Ho") covering city walls.

Employees that labor on Vietnam National Day are paid up to 400% more than they would otherwise. Workers who work nights or weekends should be compensated at least 30% more than usual.

ACTIVITIES IN VIETNAM NATIONAL DAY

In several locations throughout the world, the Vietnamese Embassies celebrate the National Day in a ceremonial fashion. To strengthen the bonds between the two nations, diplomats from the surrounding nations are also invited to the event. Many greetings are sent to the Vietnamese government on this day from leaders of other nations.

As it is a legal public holiday, no one is required to work or attend class on this day. Some businesses also provide their employees group tours. Swimming, sailing, and boat racing festivals are some of the popular celebrations that take place on this day. These get a sizable audience.

Colorful decorations start to appear in the streets, in front of, and inside of homes around the nation. During the period preceding Independence Day, Vietnamese flags with the eye-catching golden star on the red backdrop will adorn even the smallest of alleyways. Everyone seemed to be displaying their country pride with pride. On the streets, you will see plenty of Uncle Ho's (Ho Chi Minh's affectionate moniker) gigantic posters depicting the momentous moment when he spoke into a microphone that day, as well as celebration placards and gorgeous flower beds. As a visitor, you will be able to sense the locals' deep sense of love and patriotism for all the work and sacrifices made by their forebears to create the Vietnam we know today.

The reason for the event is September 2. Numerous activities take place in the streets, including parades through streets that have been closed off, cultural events, and fireworks displays. If they decide not to go on their extra day off, the locals are eager to participate in these celebrations. Whenever a national holiday comes on a weekend, the following Monday is also declared a holiday. Many people will take advantage of this and leave (particularly in the larger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang). Some of the most stunning locations in the nation, including Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Hue, Hoi An, and Da Lat, will suddenly have more visitors than normal. People who don't have any trip plans just spend the day at home with their families, unwinding, socializing, and enjoying large meals.

If you happen to be in Vietnam on Independence Day, be sure to go out and celebrate with the thousands of natives there, especially if you're in one of the country's three major cities. The majority of the cultural performances, exhibits, seminars, book fairs, and other events are free to attend. If you're in Hanoi, consider reflecting on the historical occasion in Ba Dinh Square or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum before proceeding to the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake to take part in the boisterous celebrations. If you're in Ho Chi Minh City, go to Nguyen Hue, a pedestrian street that will be jam-packed with people. Fireworks will be lit off by the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang, making for an amazing spectacle.

Don't forget to reward your stomach by indulging in some delectable street cuisine! On this day, food carts selling Vietnamese specialties, whether as a snack, a full meal, or dessert, will line the streets. Join up on the "mot hai bai dzo!" shouts, which are loosely translated as "one, two, three, drink!" Locals will enthusiastically invite you to their curbside table for a beer or two. There will be plenty of pubs, clubs, and eateries open till 2:00 AM on this day, so you won't run out of alternatives. Huge buffets with hot pot, grilled meats, and other well-known foods like pho and spring rolls are frequently served to commemorate Vietnamese holidays and festivals. Attending a food festival in the central area of the city you're in will make it extremely simple for you to acquire your fair share.

SOME INCOVENIENCES MAY DO HAPPEN

For the parades and festivities, several streets — up to 40 or more streets — will be closed off. Inconveniencing many people in travel, this frequently results in street blockages early in the morning and late at night. Transport costs have also increased. But disregard it; the day is wonderful. Simply locate an alternate path, and continue traveling.

On this day, many companies also shut down, so don't plan on going about your day as usual. Also, reserve your hotel rooms much in advance because they can fill up quickly to prevent running out of somewhere to stay the night.

In Vietnam, September 2nd is a reason for celebration. Being away from the festivities is tough since so many residents are thronging the streets and are joyfully celebrating their successful country. Travelers to Vietnam around this period are advised to stay in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, which are the larger cities. These cities will have a distinctive, noisy atmosphere. Definitely something to do, and it will leave you with memories you'll cherish forever.