In celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day (September 2), Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung has directed several national cultural institutions to open their doors free of charge from September 1 to 3, 2025.

This initiative includes free admission to major museums, the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, and the Vietnam Contemporary Art Theatre. The effort aims to honor the national holiday, promote cultural values, and foster national pride.

Minister Nguyen Van Hung described the free access as both a public service and a meaningful tribute to Vietnam’s historic legacy over the past 80 years. It allows citizens and international visitors to enjoy the spiritual and educational values of culture while gaining deeper insight into Vietnam’s people, history, and identity. It is also an opportunity to showcase the nation's image to the world.

At the Ho Chi Minh Museum, a number of special exhibitions will be launched for the occasion, including 80 Years of the People’s Police Upholding Uncle Ho’s Teachings (opening August 15), The Autumn of Independence (opening August 26), and a large outdoor oil painting installation titled Spring of Independence, debuting on September 2.

The Vietnam National Museum of History will present a themed exhibition titled Mass Education – Lighting the Future, opening August 22. The display focuses on a major grassroots education movement in the country's history.

Meanwhile, the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum will host two exhibitions: Children of the Nation (opening August 15) and Artificial Intelligence in Applied Arts (opening August 22), exploring intersections between technology and creative expression.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the museum will feature Ho Chi Minh – A Portrait of the Man, providing a vivid and insightful look into the life of Vietnam’s beloved leader.

The Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism will also play a central role in the commemorative festivities. Trinh Ngoc Chung, Director of the Department of Ethnic Culture, said the village expects to welcome around 50,000 visitors over the three-day free-entry period.

Events will include a highland market space and traditional performances by ethnic communities residing in the village. Visitors will experience authentic cultural rituals, music, and cuisine, offering a rare glimpse into the rich and diverse traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic groups.

During the same period, the Vietnam Contemporary Art Theatre will stage free performances for the public, with a special focus on children. These include water puppet shows and a variety of music and dance programs.

Nguyen Thi Quynh Trang, the theatre’s director, emphasized the importance of bringing art closer to the public, especially to children who benefit from aesthetic education and patriotic inspiration through meaningful and engaging cultural experiences.

Tinh Le