Early this morning, August 27, despite heavy rain, thousands of people packed Tran Phu and Hung Vuong streets for the parade rehearsal to mark the upcoming National Day on September 2.
Cu Ngoc Tuan from Thanh Hoa Province travelled 160 kilometres with nearly 20 others, arriving in Hanoi at 9 pm on August 26 and enduring a rainy night on Hung Vuong Street to wait for the event. The group stayed awake through the night, taking turns to keep their spot, while Tuan stressed that they fully complied with official guidance to ensure safety.
Nguyen Thi Huong from Ha Dong Ward said that her group, which consisted of over 10 members, arrived at the parade spot just after 11 pm. They brought food with them.
Vy and Huy, 25, from HCM City, reached Nguyen Thai Hoc Street at 10 pm and spent the night circling before securing seats near dawn. Prepared with chairs, raincoats, power banks, and snacks, they said the wait was manageable, with public restrooms nearby adding convenience.
Luu Hoang Dat, 25, from the Ha Dong area, left his house at 3 am on August 27 after taking a day off work to join colleagues in watching the parade rehearsal. He said the 80th anniversary was a once-in-a-lifetime event, and he wanted to get the chance to experience the nation’s proud moment.
Soldiers set up tents to shelter spectators from the rain as they waited for the rehearsal to begin.
The parade rehearsal is scheduled to take place from 8 pm today, August 27.
Hanoi is forecast to see rain ease by this afternoon following torrential rain over the past two days.