"The 'Happiness Train' departs Hanoi station before New Year's Eve."

On the evening of February 16th (the 29th day of the Lunar New Year), just before the New Year's Eve, the "Happiness Train," organized by Nhan Dan Newspaper in collaboration with Vietnam Railways Corporation, departed from Hanoi Station, beginning a special journey to celebrate the Party and the Spring Festival of 2026 and conveying a message of happiness and sharing in the early days of the new year.

Báo Công an Nhân dân•16/02/2026

More than just a train journey, this trip is designed as a miniature cultural space, where activities rooted in traditional values, cuisine , and a spirit of togetherness are integrated, creating a rich and emotional experience for passengers. In the context of the railway industry's ongoing efforts to innovate, the program contributes to refreshing its image, connecting heritage and history with modern experiential needs, thereby fostering public trust in public services and social responsibility.

On New Year's Eve, amidst the festive atmosphere of the Year of the Horse 2026 spreading throughout the streets, the "Happiness Train" SE3 officially rolled out, carrying 450 passengers from Hanoi station, beginning its journey south.

Sharing his thoughts on the program's concept, Comrade Le Quoc Minh, Member of the Central Committee of the Party, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan Newspaper, Deputy Head of the Central Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Department, and President of the Vietnam Journalists Association , said, "The 'Happiness Train' program stems from the desire to spread the values of the people – the happiness of the people – through a familiar and practical form."

According to him, naming the train "Nhan Dan" (People), associated with traditional cultural activities, not only promotes the image of the country domestically but also reaches out to international friends. The collaboration with the railway industry – a sector undergoing significant transformation – has helped turn this idea into a vibrant reality.

Departing at 7:20 PM, this special train became known as the "train of reunions".

The train carries people back to reunite with their families during the sacred moment of the new year.

Within the framework of the program, Comrade Le Quoc Minh; Comrade Nguyen Danh Huy, Deputy Minister of Construction; and Mr. Dang Sy Manh, Chairman of the Board of Members of Vietnam Railways Corporation, visited and encouraged the officials, staff, and workers of Vietnam Railways Corporation who are on duty at Hanoi Station as well as on the upcoming trans-Vietnam train.

Comrade Le Quoc Minh, together with Comrade Nguyen Danh Huy, Deputy Minister of Construction, presented gifts to encourage officials and employees of Vietnam Railways Corporation who are on duty during Tet at Hanoi Station.

Also at the event, Comrade Le Quoc Minh and Mr. Dang Sy Manh gave lucky money and New Year greetings to all staff and workers on duty at Hanoi Station during Tet, and extended their best wishes to passengers on the last train departing the station before New Year's Eve. These New Year's lucky money envelopes and warm wishes created a warm and festive atmosphere, further motivating railway workers during the transition into the new year.

Preparations for the "Journey of Happiness" were carried out during the 14th National Congress of the Party, with a sense of urgency and responsibility. The decision to launch the program on the occasion of the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and to celebrate the success of the 14th National Congress, further highlights the political and social significance of the journey.

"If you're not in a hurry, instead of choosing a faster mode of transportation, try experiencing Vietnam's railway system and joining the 'Happy Train'," Comrade Le Quoc Minh shared.