Yen So Park drew large numbers of residents and visitors for outings, camping and outdoor leisure activities on May 1, the second day of the holiday.
Parking areas for motorbikes and cars inside the park were full.
With its vast grounds, dense greenery and a lake complex covering more than 130 hectares, the park offers an airy, fresh setting suited to family picnics and gatherings of friends.
Despite the holiday influx, the park remained relatively calm and avoided overcrowding, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
Choosing somewhere close to home to avoid the crush at tourist sites, Phuong Anh of Dinh Cong Ward, said this was one of the rare holiday periods when Hanoi had such pleasant, cool weather.
"The weather has been lovely over the holiday, so we brought the children to the park for outdoor activities such as pitching a tent and cooking. It helps them build independence and everyday life skills," Phuong Anh said.
The spacious setting and mild weather made the park suitable for all ages, with older people strolling at ease while children ran about and played outdoors.
Le Thi Huong's family from Thanh Liet Ward arrived at the park at about 8 am on May 1 along with four neighbouring families. The group pitched tents and laid out food early to make the most of the day. Children ran onto the grass to fly kites and play football, while adults sat together chatting, watching the children and preparing lunch.
"In previous years, we would usually arrange a trip away at this time, often leaving Hanoi for a few days. But this year everywhere seemed crowded, so we decided to stay in the capital. It is airy here, not too packed, and the children have space to play. We do not need to travel far to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, and everyone is happy with it. We may well choose this again in future," Huong said.
Many families brought grilled meat, seafood or fast food because it was easy to prepare and convenient to use. The choice kept meals simple and nutritious without taking too much time away from leisure activities.
Hong Van's family from Ha Dong Ward travelled to the park early in the morning. Eighteen members of the extended family prepared tents, ground sheets, drinks and ready-made food to camp and spend the holiday together.
"This holiday, instead of travelling far as we usually do, we decided to camp in the park for a change of scene. It is close to home, so it is very convenient. It is also our first time camping and spending the day here, so we prepared carefully and brought everything from the day before. When we arrived, it was busier than expected, but the atmosphere is still cool, fresh and lively," Hong Van said.
Yen So Park was buzzing with activity.
Groups continued eating, exercising and socialising, while some people sought out shaded spots to lie back and rest.
