The capital's streets have been transformed with lights and decorations in celebration of the 61st anniversary of Hanoi's Liberation Day, October 10.

Some 30 art performances by groups from the city and its environs performed throughout the day, with the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will taking shows to rural and remote areas.

French colonial rule of Vietnam ended on October 10, 1954 following the defeat of French forces at Dien Bien Phu. Ho Chi Minh claimed independence in Hanoi, but the country would not be unified for another 21 years with the end of the American War and the defeat of opposition forces in the south with the fall of Sai Gon, now HCM City.

Lights decorate Hanoi streets

Trang Tien Street

Decorations around Hoan Kiem Lake

Le Trach Street