This year, the capital shone even brighter as the nation celebrated the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2.

In that atmosphere of pride, the Hanoi Press Center – the second facility of the Hanoi Center for Media, Data and Digital Technology at 17 Dien Bien Phu Street, Ba Dinh – became a special destination with meaningful activities reflecting the spirit of "serving the people, serving the press."

One of the most touching highlights was the free gift program for residents, visitors, and reporters covering the celebrations.

From August 19 to September 2, thousands of packages were distributed daily, offering refreshment and encouragement to all those joining the "A80" events.

The gifts were simple – bottled water, national flags, paper fans, boxes of Ovaltine and packets of dry rations – but carried profound meaning.

They represented care under the scorching summer sun, encouragement of patriotic spirit, and above all, a reminder that Hanoi always upholds responsibility to the community.

Nguyen Van Thinh from Bac Ninh said with emotion: "These small gifts are full of meaning. They show not only material support but also pride and unity on this important national day."

To make the program smooth, the center worked with Cong Thuong Newspaper and companies such as Number 1, AVIA, and Ovaltine to prepare more than 10,000 bottles of water, 5,000 cartons of milk, 5,000 packets of rations and 5,000 national flags, along with other items for the celebrations, including rehearsal days for parades.

The distribution points were lively yet orderly. Clear signs guided people while volunteers helped maintain queues. The image of young volunteers in blue shirts warmly handing out bottles of water and flags left a lasting impression.

Bui Quynh Trang, a youth union member from Cong Thuong Newspaper, said: "Handing gifts directly to people makes me proud. Though small, this work helps spread patriotism."

Luu Quynh Trang, a student at Hanoi High-Tech College, shared: "Though busy, the joy of seeing people smile motivates us. I truly feel the spirit of community and service from the city."

Alongside the gift program, the press center was transformed into a vibrant cultural and media space.

From August 19, the area was filled with national and party flags, posters of President Ho Chi Minh, Ba Dinh Square and parade scenes. Colorful LED lights brightened the streets each night.

Inside, an elaborate photo zone featuring an "80-year milestone" model and flower displays became a favorite stop for visitors, residents, and journalists to capture memories.

A visitor from Ho Chi Minh City said: "This space is emotional. Each detail recalls history while showing Hanoi as modern yet rich in tradition."

Every day from August 19 to September 2, thousands came to check in at the site. Many journalists also chose the backdrop for reports, helping spread the celebratory spirit nationwide.

Newspapers such as Cong Thuong, HaNoiMoi, Kinh Te & Do Thi, Tien Phong, and Tuoi Tre Thu Do contributed by distributing papers and running features, creating a wave of coverage that reaffirmed Hanoi as the country's political and cultural center.

Another detail praised by many was the press center's free public restroom on the first floor, open daily from August 19 to September 2.

Staff checked water, lighting, and sanitation carefully, with supplies of soap, tissue, and hand towels replenished throughout the day. Attendants kept the area clean and safe for use.

A journalist from Cong Thuong Newspaper remarked: "A free restroom may seem minor, but it shows thoughtful care. It reflects attention to basic needs, which left me very impressed."

These considerate gestures highlighted Hanoi's hospitality, civility, and professionalism in the eyes of both citizens and foreign guests.

Nguyen Minh Nguyet, Deputy Director of the Center for Media, Data and Digital Technology, said: "We want to create a modern yet friendly communication space. From decoration to free drinks, gifts, and restrooms, all are meant to bring comfort and spread the image of a gracious, welcoming Hanoi, especially during the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day."

Indeed, the press center's activities did more than support the anniversary parades and ceremonies. They embodied professionalism and humanity in how Hanoi organizes national events. 

Thousands of gifts, colorful displays, and free facilities together created a unified celebration that spread patriotism, national pride, and the image of a modern yet deeply cultural Hanoi.

These "small deeds with great meaning" helped reinforce Hanoi's standing as a thousand-year-old capital of peace, where every citizen and visitor feels respected and cared for.

With contributions from the city's media center, press agencies and businesses, the Hanoi Press Center became a humane highlight, adding to the success of the 80th anniversary celebrations of the successful August Revolution and National Day.