What is National Day? Should you visit Hoi An on September 2?
Vietnam’s National Day on September 2 is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and Hoi An is no exception. If you are considering a Hoi An holiday during this time, here are the key things to know before you go, from what to do and how the weather may affect your plans to where to stay and how to make the most of the holiday.
Quick Facts: Hoi An During National Day 2026
| What to Know | Details |
| Vietnam National Day | September 2 marks Vietnam’s National Day, commemorating the Declaration of Independence in 1945 |
| Official public-sector break (2026) | 5 consecutive days, August 29-September 2 |
| Distance from Hanoi | ~800 km by road |
| Distance from Da Nang | ~30 km, 45-60 minutes by car |
| Signature seasonal experience | “Non Co” version of Hoi An Memories Show, August 26-September 2, 2026 |
| Crowd level vs. a normal weekend | Significantly busier, particularly in the Ancient Town, popular attractions, restaurants, and transport hubs |
| Recommended base | Hoi An or a beachside resort if you want easy access to the Ancient Town while still having a quieter place to relax |
| Best overall strategy | Book early, visit popular spots in the morning, and allow extra travel time |
What is Vietnam’s National Day? How long is the 2 September Holiday?
Vietnam’s National Day is celebrated on 2 September each year, commemorating the declaration of independence in 1945. It is one of the country’s most important national holidays, alongside the Lunar New Year.
As a nationwide public holiday, government offices, schools, and many businesses close or operate on a reduced schedule. For many Vietnamese people, the holiday is also a popular time to travel, making destinations such as Hoi An and Da Nang busier than usual.
In 2026, the public-sector holiday lasts five consecutive days, from Saturday, 29 August to Wednesday, 2 September, through a workday swap. Private-sector employees may have a different schedule depending on their employer, although some companies may also arrange a longer break (Source: Vietnam.vn).
| 2026 National Day holiday schedule | Days off |
| Public-sector employees | 29 August-2 September (5 days) |
| Private-sector employees | Depends on the employer’s holiday arrangement |
Should you visit Hoi An on National Day?
Yes. Hoi An is worth visiting during Vietnam’s National Day holiday. The Ancient Town takes on a distinctly festive atmosphere during this time. Flags decorate shopfronts and streets, áo dài become a more common sight, and the lantern-lit evenings feel livelier with more visitors, music, and activity along the Hoai River. If you want to experience the spirit of National Day rather than simply learn about it, the town offers a memorable setting at a manageable scale.
Combining Hoi An and Da Nang is another practical option during the holiday. The two destinations are roughly 30 km apart, taking around 45 minutes to an hour by road under normal conditions. You could spend two days exploring the Ancient Town and surrounding areas, then set aside an evening for Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge fire show. During the National Day holiday, however, allow extra time for the journey as traffic can be heavier than usual.
Read more: Is a holiday in Hoi An worth it? 7 reasons to visit
Where to go and what to experience in Hoi An on National Day
From exploring the Ancient Town to joining cultural activities and catching special performances, here are the experiences worth adding to your Hoi An National Day itinerary.
Wear Ao Dai and capture National Day photos in the Ancient Town
Wearing an áo dài and taking photos around Hoi An’s Ancient Town is an experience that feels especially fitting for Vietnam’s National Day. Vietnamese flags, 2/9 decorations, yellow old houses, and lanterns create a naturally festive backdrop. To avoid the heaviest crowds, consider coming a day or two before September 2, when the decorations are already in place but the streets are generally quieter.
A practical way to do it is to separate the photo session from the actual National Day experience:
- Before September 2: Wear an áo dài and spend the morning taking photos around the Ancient Town while the streets are still relatively quiet. The yellow walls, Vietnamese flags, lanterns, and 2/9 decorations already provide the atmosphere you need.
- On September 2: Skip the photo session and simply walk around, enjoy the festive atmosphere, visit the riverside, and take in the holiday activities without having to wait for the perfect photo spot.
For the photo session, the yellow alleys around the Ancient Town, Tran Phu Street, and the riverside around Bach Dang Street are good places to start. You can also bring a conical hat or khan ran for a more traditional look. If you prefer something quicker, 2/9-themed photobooths are another easy option.
The key is to go early in the morning, ideally around 6:30-8:00 AM. The light is softer, the streets are cooler, and you have a much better chance of getting photos without strangers constantly walking into the frame. Then, when National Day arrives, you can enjoy Hoi An as a visitor rather than spending the morning waiting for your turn at a popular photo spot.
Explore Hoi An Impression Theme Park
If you enjoy discovering places at your own pace, Hoi An Impression Theme Park offers a different side of Hoi An beyond the Ancient Town. Rather than following a fixed route or sitting through a single performance, visitors can spend the afternoon moving between themed areas, cultural activities, and live shows spread throughout the park.
The experience is built around exploration. As you walk through the park, you will come across spaces inspired by the communities that shaped Hoi An’s trading-port history, including the Vietnamese Village, Japanese Village, Chinese Village, and Trade Quarters. Each area recreates a different cultural influence through architecture, performances, and interactive activities.
A simple way to experience the park is:
- Late afternoon: Arrive early to explore the themed spaces and take photos before the performances begin.
- 5:00-7:15 PM: Follow the mini shows taking place throughout the park, except on Tuesdays. Depending on the daily schedule, you may see performances such as The World in Hoi An, Viet-Cloth, Silk Queen Tam Tang, or Princess Ngoc Hoa’s Wedding.
- 5:40-7:15 PM: Prioritize the interactive performances, where visitors can participate directly instead of simply watching from the audience.
With more than 20 mini shows taking place across the park, trying to see everything in one visit can quickly become overwhelming. Instead, check the schedule when you arrive and choose the performances or activities that interest you most.
Entry costs around 50,000 VND for adults and 25,000 VND for children when purchased separately. Some hands-on cultural activities may require an additional fee, so it is worth checking the available experiences on the day of your visit.
Watch the outdoor spectacular “Memories of Hoi An” – the Non Co version
After spending the afternoon exploring the park, stay for one of Hoi An’s most iconic evening experiences. Although the show takes place within the same cultural complex, Hoi An Memories Show is a separate ticketed performance rather than one of the park’s mini shows. From August 26 to September 2, 2026, the production featured a special “Non Co” version, adding a stronger National Day atmosphere through its visual presentation (Source: Bao Lao Dong).
Unlike the theme park experience, this performance invites visitors to sit back and watch a single large-scale production unfold across one of Vietnam’s largest outdoor stages. Covering 25,000 square meters and featuring more than 500 performers, the show combines music, dance, costumes, lighting, and choreography to tell the story of Hoi An’s transformation over more than 400 years. The performance lasts around 60 minutes, making it easy to fit into an evening itinerary without taking up the entire night.
Which ticket should you choose?
- ECO (~600,000 VND): A budget-friendly option.
- HIGH (~750,000 VND): The best balance between price and viewing experience.
- VIP (~1,200,000 VND): A more comfortable option with better shelter.
Because the performance takes place outdoors, weather is worth considering when booking your ticket. Early September can bring unexpected showers, so covered seating may be a worthwhile investment. Arriving 30-45 minutes before the show is also recommended, especially on September 2, when visitor numbers are typically higher.
Enjoy buffet Ganh in a Hoi An street-vendor atmosphere
For around 200,000 VND, you can try more than 36 Central Vietnamese specialties at Buffet Ganh while dining in a setting inspired by traditional street vendors and markets of Central Vietnam. Located on Memories Island, the restaurant uses rustic ganh stalls, bamboo baskets, clay pots, and market-style decor to create an atmosphere that feels different from a conventional buffet restaurant.
The selection includes a range of familiar Hoi An and Quang Nam dishes, such as:
- Cao lau
- Mi Quang
- Banh xeo
- Banh beo
- Com ga
- Che and other traditional Vietnamese desserts
The buffet is served from 17:00 to 20:30. Depending on the booking package, the ticket may also include admission to Hoi An Impression Theme Park, so check what is included before purchasing.
For a first visit, start with the local specialties rather than filling your plate with familiar dishes. Cao lau and mi Quang are the two dishes worth prioritizing, followed by banh xeo, banh beo, and a few smaller snacks or desserts. Because it is a buffet, it is also a convenient choice for groups: everyone can sample different Hoi An specialties without ordering a full portion of each.
During the National Day holiday, it is also a practical option for travelers who want to try several regional dishes without having to search through multiple restaurants in the crowded Ancient Town.
Read more: Hoian what to wear: A realistic packing guide for resort guests (2026)
Dragon bridge fire-and-water show in Da Nang
The Dragon Bridge Fire and Water Show is an easy addition to a Hoi An trip, especially for travelers who want to experience another side of Central Vietnam during National Day. The bridge is around 30 km from Hoi An, and the show is free to watch from the surrounding public areas.
The performance starts at 9:00 PM. The dragon first breathes fire in two rounds, followed by several bursts of water. The main fire-and-water sequence lasts only around 10-15 minutes, so the experience is short but easy to fit into an evening.
A few things make the experience more enjoyable:
- You do not need a ticket, watching from the riverside is free.
- Arrive around 8:30 PM if you want a good viewing position, as the area becomes crowded before the show.
- If you stand close to the dragon’s head, you can feel the heat during the fire sequence and may get sprayed during the water display. Move farther away if you want to stay dry.
- The show is relatively short, so do not expect a 30-minute performance.
Can it be combined with the Non Co version of the Hoi An Memories Show? Technically, yes, but it is not recommended to watch the entire Non Co show and then rush to Da Nang. The Hoi An Memories Show runs until around 9:00 PM, leaving too little time to travel roughly 30 km to Dragon Bridge and find a good viewing spot before the 9:00 PM show. A better approach is to watch the Dragon Bridge show on another evening. This keeps both experiences enjoyable instead of turning the evening into a race between two destinations.
What is the weather like in Hoi An around National Day?
Early September is still hot and humid in Hoi An, while the chance of rain increases as the city moves further into the wetter season. In September, daytime temperatures generally range from around 30°C to 32°C, while nighttime temperatures stay around 25°C. The chance of a wet day is about 43% at the beginning of September, increasing to around 58% by the end of the month (Source: Weather Spark).
For a National Day trip, this means outdoor plans are still very manageable, but some flexibility is useful. Early mornings are a good time for walking around the Ancient Town and taking áo dài photos before the heat and humidity become more noticeable. Later in the day, keep a rain jacket or compact umbrella within reach in case of a sudden shower.
Practical things to know when visiting Hoi An on 2 September
- Book your accommodation earlier than usual: Aim for 4–6 weeks in advance, or 6–8 weeks if traveling with a family or group. Room rates may increase closer to the holiday, while popular locations tend to fill first. Check availability and book directly for the best rates.
- Avoid peak travel hours: The busiest departure periods are usually Friday afternoon and evening and Saturday morning at the start of the holiday. For the Da Nang-Hoi An route, avoid roughly 4:00-7:00 PM when possible. Allow extra time for traffic on the return journey as well.
- Expect more crowds and longer waits: Visitor numbers usually increase from the afternoon into the evening, especially around the Japanese Covered Bridge, riverside areas, restaurants and popular attractions. For a quieter experience, explore the Ancient Town around 6:30-9:00 AM.
- Reserve popular restaurants in advance: During the holiday, making a dinner reservation 1-2 days ahead is recommended, while particularly popular restaurants are better booked earlier.
- Prepare for higher prices: Accommodation and some travel services may cost more than on a normal weekend, particularly as September 2 approaches.
- Prepare for sudden showers: Early September can bring unexpected rain, so carry a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket alongside sunscreen, a hat and breathable clothing. Keep the itinerary flexible enough to accommodate a short shower.
Where should you stay during the National Day holiday?
| Staying In… | Old Town / Central Hoi An | A Beach Resort Base |
| Proximity to sights | Steps from the action | Short drive or shuttle ride |
| Noise and crowd exposure | High, especially evenings | Low, quiet by design |
| Room availability during holiday | Fills fast, limited options | Generally more room, though still worth booking early |
| Recovery space after a busy day | Minimal | Pool, beach, spa, open space |
| Best suited to | Travelers prioritizing walkability above all | Travelers who want culture by day, rest by night |
Staying directly inside the Ancient Town puts you closest to the action, but it also means absorbing the loudest, busiest version of National Day around the clock – thin walls, crowded lanes outside your door, and little room to actually recover between outings. A beach base solves that trade-off cleanly, especially during a week when the Old Town’s energy is turned up several notches beyond normal.
This is exactly where Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness fits into a National Day stay. Located on Binh Minh Beach, south of the Old Town, the resort offers a quieter setting without making it difficult to reach Hoi An’s main attractions and evening experiences. After spending the day among the crowds, guests can return to a more relaxed beachfront environment – a useful contrast during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
What makes Bliss Hoi An a practical base for 2 September?
Beyond its location, Bliss Hoi An gives guests plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday without having to leave the resort all day. The 5-hectare property has 137 rooms and villas, along with a 55-metre beachfront infinity pool, private beach and Ngoc Linh Spa. Daily activities and wellness experiences also provide options for a slower morning or a break between sightseeing.
Dining is another practical advantage during a busy holiday. Binh Minh Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, while the Pool Bar, Cham Beach Bar and Rooftop Bar offer more casual choices. On September 2, the resort will also host an Independence Day seafood buffet dinner with live music at Binh Minh Restaurant.
- Adults: 799,000++ VND/person
- Children: 400,000++ VND/child
- Time: 6:30 PM–9:30 PM, September 2, 2026
- Included: Seafood buffet, live music, and one complimentary Victory cocktail or Peaceful mocktail
Reservations: Contact Bliss Hoi An via (+84) 911 889 558 (Sales/Booking Hotline, Zalo/WhatsApp) or (+84) 235 3874 888 (Reception). You can also visit blisshoian.com for more information.
Hoi An 3-Day, 2-Night National Day itinerary
| Day | Itinerary |
| Day 1 – Ancient Town & Local Atmosphere | Arrive in Hoi An → check in at Bliss Hoi An → explore the Ancient Town in the afternoon → walk along the Hoai River and lantern streets → dinner in the Old Town → return to Bliss |
| Day 2 – National Day Experiences | Early ao dai photos in the Ancient Town → breakfast → head to Hoi An Impression Theme Park in the afternoon → explore the themed spaces and enjoy mini shows → Buffet Ganh with 36+ local and Vietnamese dishes → watch the Non Co version of Hoi An Memories Show → return to Bliss for the night |
| Day 3 – Slow Morning at Bliss & Departure | Have a relaxed morning at Bliss Hoi An → enjoy the beach or pool → breakfast and check-out → make a final stop in Hoi An for coffee, local food or souvenirs → depart for Da Nang or the next destination |
FAQ
Is Hoi An crowded on National Day?
→ Yes. Expect heavier crowds, especially in the Ancient Town and around popular attractions in the afternoon and evening.
How many days should you spend in Hoi An for National Day?
→ 3 days and 2 nights is enough to enjoy the main experiences without rushing.
Is Hoi An suitable for children during National Day?
→ Yes, although families should allow extra time for transport and choose quieter activities between crowded attractions.
Can you visit Hoi An on a budget during National Day?
→ Yes, but accommodation and transport may cost more than usual. Booking early helps keep costs under control.
Is Hoi An walkable during National Day?
→ Yes. The Ancient Town is easy to explore on foot, although crowded streets can make walking slower than usual.
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