I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a renowned hospitality expert with extensive experience in travel, tourism, and event management. With her deep understanding of expos and conferences, Katarina offers unique insights into Vietnam’s National Achievements Exhibition 2025, a historic event that drew nearly four million visitors in celebration of the country’s 80th National Day. In our conversation, we explore the event’s significance, the logistics behind managing such a massive crowd, the emotional impact on attendees, and how it showcased Vietnam’s growth and cultural heritage to both locals and international guests.
Can you tell us what the National Achievements Exhibition 2025 is all about and why it was such a significant event for Vietnam?
Absolutely, Alex. The National Achievements Exhibition 2025 was a landmark event held in Hanoi to commemorate Vietnam’s 80th National Day. It was designed to showcase the country’s incredible progress over the past eight decades across various fields like politics, economy, and culture. More than just a display, it acted as a national mirror, reflecting the resilience and collective identity of the Vietnamese people. Tying it to such a historic milestone made it a powerful celebration of both past struggles and future aspirations, drawing nearly four million visitors who wanted to connect with their shared history.
What do you think drove such an enormous turnout of almost four million people to this exhibition?
The sheer scale of interest came from a mix of factors. First, the event’s connection to National Day tapped into a deep sense of patriotism—people wanted to be part of something that celebrated their country’s journey. The diversity of exhibits, from technological innovations to cultural artifacts, appealed to a wide audience. I heard that displays on economic milestones and traditional arts were particularly captivating. Plus, the timing in late August to mid-September allowed families, students, and even international tourists to attend, boosting numbers significantly.
How did the exhibition highlight Vietnam’s achievements across different sectors?
It was a comprehensive showcase, covering a broad spectrum of progress. Politically, there were exhibits on key milestones like independence and major reforms that shaped modern Vietnam. Economically, visitors saw displays on industrial growth and infrastructure projects that transformed the nation. Culturally, the event featured traditional arts, music, and heritage pieces, presented through interactive setups and live performances. This blend not only educated attendees but also fostered a sense of pride in how far Vietnam has come in just 80 years.
With such a massive crowd, how did the organizers ensure everything ran smoothly for visitors?
The logistics were impressive. The Organizing Committee collaborated with local authorities to set up 20 bus routes for easy access to the venue in Hanoi. They also expanded parking areas and created designated pick-up and drop-off zones to manage traffic flow. Beyond transportation, they prioritized visitor comfort with 12 information booths, both indoors and outdoors, and nearly 2,000 volunteers who were always ready to assist. Clear signboards and free handbooks further helped people navigate the sprawling exhibition, making the experience seamless despite the huge numbers.
The event was extended until September 15, 2025. What led to this decision, and how did it impact attendance?
The extension came from a directive by the Prime Minister, responding to overwhelming public demand. Many couldn’t attend during the initial dates from August 28 to September 2, so adding 13 more days ensured wider access. From what I’ve gathered, this move paid off, allowing even more visitors to engage with the exhibits. It also gave organizers a chance to refine certain displays and add smaller events during the extra time, keeping the momentum going and reaching people who might have otherwise missed out.
In what ways did the exhibition foster a sense of national pride among those who attended?
The event was deeply emotional for many. It wasn’t just about seeing achievements on display; it was about feeling connected to Vietnam’s story of resilience. I heard stories of visitors, especially older generations, being moved by exhibits on historical struggles and triumphs. For younger attendees, interactive displays helped bridge the gap to the past, making history tangible. Families often left with a renewed appreciation for their country, inspired by how individual efforts contributed to collective progress over eight decades.
How was the experience tailored for international visitors, and what impression do you think they took away?
The organizers did a fantastic job catering to foreign guests. There were multilingual resources, including guides and handbooks, to help explain the context of displays. Volunteers were also trained to assist international attendees, ensuring they could fully appreciate the significance of Vietnam’s milestones. I believe these visitors left with a profound respect for the country’s growth and cultural depth. The exhibition positioned Vietnam as a nation of innovation and heritage, likely inspiring many to explore more of its history and modern achievements.
There were quieter days, like September 3, with fewer attendees. How did that affect the visitor experience?
Those quieter days actually offered a unique opportunity. With fewer people, especially on September 3, visitors could take their time exploring exhibits without the usual hustle and bustle. It allowed for a more personal and reflective experience, particularly for those interested in diving deeper into specific displays like cultural heritage or historical timelines. For elderly attendees or those from distant provinces, this meant a calmer, more meaningful visit, enhancing their connection to the content on show.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for future events like the National Achievements Exhibition in Vietnam?
I’m very optimistic about the future of such exhibitions in Vietnam. Given the success of this 2025 event, with its massive turnout and emotional impact, I expect organizers to build on this momentum. We might see even more innovative displays, perhaps incorporating virtual reality to bring history to life, or greater international collaboration to attract global audiences. As Vietnam continues to grow, these events will likely become key platforms for showcasing progress while reinforcing national unity and pride, setting a high standard for cultural celebrations worldwide.
