Major Road Closures in Hanoi for A80

As the capital city prepares for the upcoming 80th Anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day celebrations scheduled for September 2, the Hanoi Traffic Police (CSGT) and city authorities have released a comprehensive schedule of road closures and traffic restrictions. These will take place over several days leading up to the event and on the day itself—impacting both daily commuters and tourists alike.
 

Road Closure Schedule

Authorities have planned multiple stages of rehearsals and the main ceremony:

• First General Rehearsal (August 21):
  • Road closures from 5:00 p.m. on August 21 to 3:00 a.m. on August 22
• Second General Rehearsal (August 24):
  • Same schedule: 5:00 p.m. on August 24 to 3:00 a.m. on August 25
• Preliminary Review (August 27):
  • Closures from 5:00 p.m. on August 27 to 3:00 a.m. on August 28
• Final Rehearsal (August 30):
  • Extended schedule: 6:00 p.m. on August 29 until 3:00 p.m. on August 30
• National Day Celebrations (September 2):
  • Full road closure from 6:00 p.m. on September 1 to 3:00 p.m. on September 2

Streets and Areas Affected

During these periods, dozens of streets across central Hanoi — particularly within Ring Road 1 (encompassing the Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm area, and West Lake) — will be completely closed to all vehicles unless they are officially authorized. Affected roads include:
 

• Major avenues and key heritage streets, such as Hoàng Hoa Thám, Thụy Khuê (from Hùng Vương to Văn Cao), Mai Xuân Thưởng, Quán Thánh, Phan Đình Phùng, Hùng Vương, Thanh Niên, and many more—spanning Ba Đình, Tây Hồ, and central districts.
• Outside Ring Road 1, restrictions will apply in layers:
  • From Ring Road I to Ring Road II, restrictions will affect trucks over 1.5 tons, passenger vehicles with more than 16 seats, light commercial and other private vehicles
  • For traffic from Ring Road III outward (including major highways like Quốc lộ 32, 21A, 6, 18, Đại lộ Thăng Long, Võ Nguyên Giáp, and others), authorities recommend drivers limit travel during the event, as restrictions may apply

Stopping or parking is strictly prohibited on any roads that are subject to the closure or restriction measures.
 

Why the Restrictions Matter

The closures are in place to ensure security, safety, and the smooth execution of Hanoi’s most esteemed national event. The National Day ceremony features:

• A grand parade at Ba Đình Square.
• More than 16,000 participants, including military infantry, mechanized units, air and naval forces.
• A highly choreographed display of national pride, unity, and historical remembrance.

The rehearsals, held over several nights and the final full-dress run-through, are essential to ensure precision and coordination for the main event.

What This Means for Travelers

Visitors to Hanoi during this period should take note:

• Expect major disruptions on central roads, especially if you're staying or traveling near Ba Đình, Hoàn Kiếm, or the West Lake area.
• Use public transportation, such as buses or the metro, which remain the most reliable option during these days
• In central zones, walking may be the quickest way to get around, especially where vehicle access is restricted
• Allow extra travel time—even taxi or ride-hail journeys may face delays or detours.
• For those with commitments or sightseeing plans, staying informed via hotels, travel agencies, or news sources is strongly encouraged.

The National Day festivities promise an unforgettable experience—rich in ceremony, patriotic spirit, and cultural resonance. If you’re in Hanoi at this time, plan thoughtfully:

• Opt for public transit or walking.
• Stay updated with local advisories.
• Embrace the excitement—but expect road closures and adjustments.

Let your travels be both safe and memorable as Hanoi honors the enduring legacy of independence and national identity.