Patriotism among young people spills over from the streets to sports arenas

As the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and the September 2 National Day holiday approaches in Vietnam, public gatherings are transforming into shared emotional experiences. This is evident in the vibrant, creative, and colorful displays of patriotism by young people in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Friends of Nhi and Quang Anh have been watching the A80 parade rehearsals at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi and sharing photos and videos with thoughtful captions. They also visited the 300-metre mural road in Ho Chi Minh City to capture photos of the recreated military parade.

Performers are reimagining revolutionary songs with modern arrangements, light shows, and dance acts, making national concerts must-go events during this patriotic period. These concerts, attracting massive crowds of young fans, are now selling out fast and filling venues to capacity.

Online community groups dedicated to "national concerts" are buzzing with activity. Standout shows include Tổ Quốc Trong Tim, Tự Hào Là nà gười Việt Nam, V Concert - Rạng Rỡ Việt Nam, V Fest - Tuổi Trẻ Rực Rỡ, and Dưới Cờ Quyết Thắng.

Young people are expressing their patriotism in unique ways, mixing respect for tradition with their own creativity. They are wearing bright red T-shirts with yellow stars, áo dài, conical hats, and patterned scarves. Flags are everywhere, used in photos, TikToks, and painted on faces. Check-ins at historical and cultural sites have become a creative, personal way for young people to show their love of country.

Social media amplifies this message, with hashtags trending quickly and short videos capturing patriotic moments. Đăng Phúc, who works at a media agency, stated that the quality and atmosphere of these concerts are exceptional. For him, revolutionary music has moved him emotionally for the first time in his life.

Thảo Nhi, a third-year medical student, stated that young people want to take part in the upcoming milestones in their own way. Quang Anh mentioned that the murals evoke deep national pride and remind viewers of the sacrifices made by earlier generations.

Younger artists and groups participating in the "national concerts" include over 150 music groups from Germany and neighboring countries. These performances involve various ensembles across multiple venues and stages, such as those in Freiburg's "Freiburg stimmt ein" festival with over 700 musicians and 104 bands, highlighting community-driven, participatory music experiences.

In these concerts, patriotism among Vietnam's youth thrives on phones and feeds, in music and fashion, in selfies and mass singalongs. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of the nation, a celebration of its history, and a promise of its future.