Giving away bread and opening coffee shops for guests from far away on the occasion of September 2nd

Vu Duc Thinh's family displayed a sign offering free bread and water to people from far away who came to Hanoi to watch the parade. Photo: TIEN CUONG

In the pouring rain on the afternoon of September 1 in Hanoi, Mr. Vu Duc Thinh and his family at No. 3 Thanh Mien Alley, Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam were busy preparing 1,000 hot loaves of bread and 500 bottles of water for people watching the parade in the capital.

Mr. Thinh said that the night before, his family saw many people lying on the street, it was raining occasionally so they got wet, affecting their health, so the family discussed buying bread, water and setting up a cafe to welcome everyone. Due to the small area of the house, the family prioritized children, the elderly and veterans.

"September 2 is the nation's Independence Day, so many people from all over the country come to the capital. As a Hanoian, in addition to our love for our homeland, my family and I also want to spread the love of the people of the capital to tourists from all over the world, and try to contribute a little to help our fellow countrymen," Mr. Thinh shared.

Ms. Chung Tuyet Nhung (from Cao Bang province) said that her family went to Hanoi on August 29. In the past few days, the family had rented a hotel to stay, but at 12 noon on September 1, the hotel asked them to check out because someone had booked it in advance. Therefore, everyone had to walk along Nguyen Thai Hoc street, waiting until the end of the parade on the morning of September 2 before returning home.

"When I came here, I stopped by the coffee shop and saw a sign offering free bread and water, so I was happy. The staff also said that if I didn't have a place to sleep at night, I could come to their place to rest," Chung Tuyet Nhung excitedly said.

Thinh’s family story is not unique. These days, on many central streets, many Hanoi households voluntarily cook porridge, give out free water, and open shops to shelter tourists from the rain. These quiet acts contribute to spreading the cultural beauty, hospitality, and kindness that are the traditions of the people of Trang An.

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2, besides the solemn atmosphere of the parade, according to many people, those simple gestures have added a warm color, so that the image of the Capital in the eyes of friends and compatriots nationwide becomes closer and more familiar.

In addition to the support of individuals, to support people and tourists watching the parade, the Hanoi Youth Union and sponsors organized dozens of points to distribute free mineral water, bread and snacks. Volunteers in blue shirts will be on hand to support.

In addition, according to SGGP reporters, the rain this afternoon, September 1, did not cause people to "abandon their positions" along both sides of the roads where the parade will pass.

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