PM Pham Minh Chinh joins new year celebrations in Cao Bang province.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attended new year celebrations in the northern mountain province of Cao Bang which included a space featuring the cultures of local ethnic minorities, an art show, and a fireworks display.

In Hanoi, thousands of people danced to the music at a countdown event at Hoan Kiem lake or watched spontaneous music shows in the nearby pedestrian streets.

"Everyone is happy, excited and cheerful. I feel refreshed," a local resident said.

"Mingling in the crowd, I feel rejuvenated. I hope that our country will continue to develop and become more civilized," said another Hanoian.

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square at Hanoi's Hoan Kiem lake is flooded with people on New Year's Eve.

In Da Nang, the rains subsided at around 8 p.m. and people traveled to Bien Dong Park for the countdown event and music shows. The dragon statue that runs along Da Nang's iconic Dragon Bridge breathed fire in front of an audience of 1,000.

During Christmas and this New Year's Eve, Da Nang estimated to receive 260,000 visitors, a 35% increase from the same period last year. Half of them were foreigners.

In HCM city, thousands of people gathered at  Bach Dang Port to see the fireworks which exploded above the Saigon River tunnel at midnight. 

"I hope that Ho Chi Minh city’s economy will grow strongly, overcoming the challenges of recent years. May the new year bring good health, peace, and constant joy and happiness to my family," said Thu Thao of Binh Tan district.