With Hanoi preparing for the September 2nd National Day procession, numerous locals are welcoming outsiders into their homes, providing complimentary lodging, relaxation areas, and drinks for individuals awaiting the dress rehearsals.

On August 21, the pavement near Cao Văn Quân’s art studio on Nguyễn Thái Học Street, close to Bác Minh Square, was filled with spectators waiting to see the military parade practice. Observing senior citizens and kids seated on rugs since dawn, Quân along with his family closed their store and offered them shelter and access to the bathroom.

A 41-year-old individual also distributed 20 boxes of water and remained at his store until 11 p.m., which was four hours longer than normal. “I’m not bothered by a small hassle. My main aim is for all people to thoroughly appreciate this significant national holiday.”

A large crowd assembled outside and within Cao Van Quan’s art studio on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street during the late afternoon of August 21, 2025, to observe the march practice. Image courtesy of Khanh Tung

He wasn’t the sole individual. Hundreds of store proprietors along Nguyen Thai Hoc Street followed suit, welcoming outsiders into their establishments. Their kindness was documented through photographs and received extensive acclaim online.

“The vendors along Nguyen Thai Hoc Street are very charming. They allow visitors to sit within their homes, provide free water, and offer access to restrooms,” wrote Facebook user Khanh Tung.

Immediately after the parade timetable and pathways were revealed, 27-year-old Vu Manh Dung, who runs a convenience store at the intersection of An Duong Street, shared an internet notice inviting individuals to take breaks at his establishment without charge. The store is approximately 100 meters away from Thanh Nien Street and a ten-minute stroll from Ba Dinh Square. It offers an easy vantage point for watching moving military trucks pass by.

“Everyone can count on our assistance without any cost,” Dung states.

He intends to arrange two big tables, 12 collapsible chairs, and remain open throughout the night during the practice sessions and the official parade day.

Yen Trang, aged 34, owns a 75-square-meter apartment located in the Dai Thanh Urban Area of Dai Thanh Ward, Hanoi, which is now accommodating over 10 guests from southern regions at no cost while they await the September 2nd National Day parade. Photograph courtesy of Yen Trang.

Numerous residents of Hanoi are providing lodging for visitors who are awaiting the National Day parade practice.

Quan Thi Phuong Lan, aged 32, has a residence located at 69B Thuy Khue Street close to Bach Thao Park, where armed forces gather for practice sessions. She shared an internet message encouraging households, particularly those with kids, to reside freely in her unoccupied three-level home. Every level exceeds 30 square meters and can accommodate roughly 30 individuals.

Lan mentions that she came up with the concept after observing multi-generational families arriving in Hanoi lacking spaces where older people and kids could take a break.

Adults may arrive beforehand to reserve spots at the practice location, whereas seniors and children will join later in the afternoon.

Less than an hour after she posted, over 10 families reached out to her. Additionally, she provided clean water and ready-to-eat noodles at no cost.

Lan confessed she felt uncertain about welcoming numerous unfamiliar guests but had faith in their kindness throughout the National Day event. “Assisting others during this time gives me happiness; I don’t concern myself too much with it.”

As per the timetable, another practice session is scheduled for 8 p.m. on August 24. A trial run is planned for 8 p.m. on August 27, succeeded by the last complete dress rehearsal at 6:30 a.m. on August 30. The formal competition and parade are set to start at 6:30 a.m. on September 2 at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Square and throughout the city center streets.