On February 3, 2026, Vietnam commemorates the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam (Đảng Cộng sản Việt Nam), one of the most important political and historical dates in the country.
The party was officially founded on February 3, 1930, in Hong Kong by Nguyễn Ái Quốc (later known as Hồ Chí Minh), who unified several early communist and revolutionary groups — the Indochinese Communist Party, the Annamese Communist Party, and the Indochinese Communist League — into a single organization called the Communist Party of Vietnam (initially named the Communist Party of Indochina). The founding conference adopted a political program calling for national independence, land reform, and the establishment of a workers’ and peasants’ government.
This marked the birth of the party that would lead Vietnam through decades of struggle: against French colonial rule, Japanese occupation during World War II, the First Indochina War (1946–1954), the Vietnam War/American War (1955–1975), and the post-war reconstruction and Đổi Mới (Renovation) reforms since 1986.
Today, the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) remains the sole ruling party, guiding the country’s political, economic, and social development under the principle of “socialism-oriented market economy” and the leadership slogan: “Đảng lãnh đạo, Nhà nước quản lý, Nhân dân làm chủ” (The Party leads, the State manages, the People are the masters).
Significance in 2026:
- The 96th anniversary falls in the lead-up to the 14th National Congress (expected in early 2026), making it a time for reflection on the party’s achievements and future direction.
- It reaffirms the CPV’s central role in Vietnam’s stability, economic growth (one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia), poverty reduction, and international integration while maintaining socialist orientation.
- The day highlights Hồ Chí Minh’s legacy as the founder and eternal leader, emphasizing the party’s continuity, discipline, and closeness to the people.
Celebrations and Observances:
- Official ceremonies: The main event takes place in Hanoi at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Central Party Office, with wreath-laying, speeches by General Secretary Tô Lâm (or successor), Politburo members, and representatives of veterans, youth, and workers.
- Nationwide activities: Similar ceremonies in every province and city; party committees hold meetings to review achievements and launch new campaigns; flags fly high across government buildings, schools, and factories.
- Cultural and educational programs: Schools, universities, and workplaces organize talks, exhibitions, film screenings (e.g., documentaries on Hồ Chí Minh and the party’s history), and contests on revolutionary history. Media (VTV, Nhân Dân newspaper) broadcast special programs, interviews with veteran revolutionaries, and features on party contributions.
- Public engagement: Many citizens visit revolutionary sites, museums (Ho Chi Minh Museum, Museum of the Revolution), or light incense at local memorials. Social media shares patriotic messages, historical photos, and quotes from Hồ Chí Minh.
- Symbolic acts: Red flags and party banners are displayed prominently; the national anthem and revolutionary songs are performed at events.
The Anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Foundation is not a nationwide public holiday with closures (schools and offices usually remain open), but it is one of the most politically and culturally significant dates in Vietnam — observed with deep respect and pride.
A phrase often quoted on this day: “Không có gì quý hơn độc lập, tự do.” (“Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom.”) — Hồ Chí Minh
On February 3, Vietnam honors the party that has led the nation from colonial oppression to independence, reunification, and rapid development — reaffirming its commitment to the socialist path and the well-being of the people. 🇻🇳