The rehearsal is scheduled to take place at 8 pm today, August 21.
From noon today, thousands of people had already flooded the streets around Ba Dinh Square such as Hung Vuong, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Doc Lap to wait for the event.
On the pavements, many families laid out mats, brought food and drinks. Nga and her group of about 20 friends arrived as early as 5 am to secure the best spot. “Last night we were so excited we couldn’t sleep. Not just today, but for the next few days, our group will be out watching it all as a special experience. If it gets too crowded on September 2, we’ll give our spots to people coming from other provinces,” Nga said.
Nathalie Chollet from France said she had been taken by surprise that morning by the roar of aircraft overhead, and after searching online, discovered a host of events to celebrate National Day. Her birthday is on September 2, so this year she will celebrate it in a truly special atmosphere.
Hundreds of people packed the junction of Hung Vuong, Nguyen Thai Hoc and Hang Chao despite light rain, standing and sitting shoulder to shoulder. The spot is regarded as one of the best vantage points for watching the parade.
Streets lined with vibrant flags and flowers, accompanied by heroic songs blaring from loudspeakers, added to the fervent atmosphere.
In front of the home of footballers Duy Manh and Van Quyet on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, their family handed out free ice cream and drinks to the public. Many people gathered to receive the refreshments as they waited for the parade.
