Vietnam Celebrates National Day with Nationwide Cultural and Tourism Events

Vietnam is abuzz with celebrations as the nation marks its 81st anniversary of independence. Over the past weekend, a diverse array of cultural, sports, and tourism events unfolded simultaneously across the country, from north to south. In the north, Hai Phong, a port city, launched its pedestrian street, food, and night economy development event on Friday evening. This program, scheduled to run every Friday and Saturday night, offers unique experiences for residents and visitors to the "Port City." In the central region, Hoi An commenced its "Hoi An Creative Week 2026 - Journey to Touch Heritage, Touch Creativity" on Friday evening. Running from August 28 to September 2, the event features creative spaces across the Hoai River Square, An Hoi Sculpture Garden, the Ancient Town, and craft villages. The week aims to establish itself as a signature cultural-tourism product of the creative community, held at an opportune time annually. In Ho Chi Minh City, over the nights of August 29 and 30, the Municipal Theatre premiered "Áo xưa dù nhàu," a new play adapted from Cao Huy Thuần's short story "Sợi tóc." The production captures the atmosphere of Saigon in the 1980s and 1990s, with its title referencing a line from Trịnh Công Sơn's song "Hạ trắng." Meanwhile, at the 5B Small Stage Theatre, "Tiếng hát nửa đêm" offers audiences a mysterious and haunting tale of a Southern itinerant troupe, interspersed with humorous situations. The Trần Hữu Trang Cải Lương Theatre is bringing its operatic performances to areas further from the city center. On the evening of September 2, a 120-minute cải lương program will be held in Thới Hòa Ward, blending singing, traditional melodies, modern adaptations, and patriotic themes. A highlight will be an excerpt from "Lý Thường Kiệt đề thơ." At the southernmost tip of the country, in Ca Mau province, the "Convergence of Cultural Identities at the Southernmost Tip of the Fatherland" - the 1st Ca Mau Hot Air Balloon Festival 2026 - is taking place from August 28 to September 1. Furthermore, on Saturday morning, August 29, the Ca Mau Provincial People's Committee held a groundbreaking ceremony for the "Ba Hạt Lúa Park" construction project in Vĩnh Lợi Commune, officially commemorating the 81st anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2. These events showcase Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry and the festive spirit of its people.