One of the most significant holidays in the Vietnamese calendar, Sept. 2 marks the day revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence from France. Across the country, Vietnamese commemorate this monumental occasion with flags, cheerful festivities and fireworks at night. If you’re in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang, head out into the streets to join the locals in an exuberant celebration of Vietnamese patriotism and pride.