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From late March and early April, the streets of Ho Chi Minh City have been painted red with Vietnamese flags and banners commemorating the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification. Major streets, squares, and historical sites are constantly packed with visitors. It’s easy to see that everyone is eagerly looking forward to a grand celebration.
A café in District 1 is decorated with images of the Vietnamese national flag. Photo: VnExpress
Even as a foreign visitor, you can feel the deep patriotism of the Vietnamese people. If you’re in the city named after the man who opened a new chapter in Vietnam’s history, don’t miss the chance to soak in this rare and unforgettable atmosphere. Asia King Travel is excited to highlight some of the must-see events celebrating the 50th anniversary of Reunification Day.
April 30th, 1975 marked the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. The country was finally free from war after 120 years, since the French invasion in 1858. Since then, a new chapter for the nation began. The government has designated April 30 as a major holiday and organizes various yearly commemorative activities. For locals, it’s a proud celebration of their country’s resilience and strength.
A tank of the Liberation Army of South Vietnam entered the Independence Palace on April 30, 1975. Photo: Tran Mai Huong
During this time, parades, fireworks, and a lively buzz were in major cities, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Museums often host special exhibitions, and you'll likely catch locals and international visitors learning about history through them. It's a beautiful time to experience Vietnam’s patriotic spirit firsthand, so don’t miss out on being there.
Starting from April 18th, parade rehearsals will take place on Le Duan Street at 9 PM. The second rehearsal will follow on April 22nd, and the final full-dress rehearsal is scheduled for 7 AM on April 27th. This parade is a state-level event, organized on a large scale and with the highest level of formality and grandeur.
A total of 56 groups are participating in the parade rehearsal. Among them, the ceremonial vehicle units account for 4 groups, while 36 groups come from the military, militia, and police forces. China, Laos, and Cambodia have also sent parade units to join the event. Additionally, 12 civilian groups are taking part in the parade.
The military parade rehearsal on April 27. Photo: Nam Anh
Besides artistic performances and marches, the parade will feature a 21-gun salute at Bach Dang Wharf. Ten helicopters will hover and release the Communist Party flag and the national flag, while 10 fighter jets will perform aerial acrobatics over the skies of Ho Chi Minh City.
On April 30, the military parade will take place at 6:00 AM. The parade will start from Le Duan Street, pass by the Reunification Hall (Independence Palace), and then split into four directions. This is the most significant event in the entire series of celebrations for Reunification Day.
A fighter jet released dazzling flares across the sky. Photo: Huu Khoa
To mark this significant event, Ho Chi Minh City will hold fireworks displays and drone performances not just once, but on three days: at various locations throughout the city. On April 26th, 2,000 drones performed an aerial art display over the Saigon River (opposite Nguyen Hue Street, District 1) at 9:15 PM, followed by high-altitude fireworks across the river in Thu Duc City at 9:30 PM. The second fireworks show was performed the day after.
The drones recreated the image of the Lac bird and Dong Son drum patterns on rehearsal night April 28. Photo: Thanh Nien
What’s even more special, 10,500 drones will set a record for the largest drone performance in Vietnam at 9:30 PM on May 1. The drones will fly high and form images representing symbols that showcase the development of Ho Chi Minh City and celebrate 50 years of national reunification. On the evening of April 28, you can watch the rehearsal performance along the Saigon River.
On the evenings of April 19, 26, 29, and 30, a 3D mapping light art show will take place from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the facade of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council and People’s Committee building (86 Le Thanh Ton Street). The program will feature creative teams from France, Singapore, Belgium, and Vietnam, combining sound, light, and vivid images on the iconic architecture of the city.
The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Building became the backdrop for the light show. Photo: Dan tri
Earlier on April 6, a 3D Mapping competition was held among the participating countries at the Independence Palace. The performance by the Vietnam team was deeply moving, showcasing images of the Lac bird and key historical milestones of the country.
The artistic teams from France and Belgium presented unique performances, offering a perspective from different continents towards Ho Chi Minh City. Meanwhile, the Singapore team impressed with their technique of rotating and transforming architectural shapes, creating a smooth, captivating visual experience in 3 minutes.
At Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the city is hosting a film exhibition titled "Echoes of the Great Spring Victory of 1975," featuring 300 valuable archival photos and public screenings of films about the Vietnam War.
Alongside this is the "From the Bach Dang Victory to the Great Victory of April 30, 1975" exhibition-museum, displaying models and statues that recreate Vietnam’s historic achievements from ancient times up to 1975. Visitors are especially impressed by the striking display of upside-down tanks.
The Bach Dang River stakes pierced through the invader's tank. Photo: Kinh te Sai Gon Online
According to reports from travel agencies, alongside the large number of domestic tourists, the number of international visitors to Ho Chi Minh City has also seen remarkable growth. Many foreign travelers have arrived in the city since early April to take part in the many events being held here.
Mrs. Fiona and Mr. Brad’s family from Melbourne, Australia, are on a three-week trip across Vietnam with their three daughters. Before arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, the family had already explored Hanoi, Quang Ninh, and many other destinations.
"The atmosphere is amazing! Everyone is out on the streets with the colors of the Vietnamese flag. I know this is a very special day for your country, and it’s wonderful to be here and experience it together with everyone," Mrs. Fiona shared.
To get a good spot for watching the fireworks show, they arrived early in the afternoon. Mrs. Fiona shared that this trip to Vietnam has been a memorable and special experience for her family. "We wish all Vietnamese people, and visitors like us, a truly unforgettable holiday," Mr. Brad added.
Mrs. Fiona and Mr. Brad's family arrived early to get a good spot for watching the fireworks. Photo: Cao An Bien
Meanwhile, Mrs. Desping from Greece was excitedly strolling through Bach Dang Wharf and taking photos while waiting for a few friends. She said the atmosphere in downtown Ho Chi Minh City was incredible, with crowds filling the streets and joining the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of national reunification.
Spending two weeks in Vietnam, shared that she is enjoying one of the most special vacations of her life.
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This is a special occasion for both locals and visitors to relive the heroic moments of history and enjoy a holiday filled with unforgettable experiences. If you haven’t made any plans yet, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of two festive days in Ho Chi Minh City.
April 30:
6:30 AM – 10:30 AM: The military parade will start from Le Duan Street, pass by the main grandstand in front of the Independence Palace, and then split into four major directions. To get a good viewing spot, you should arrive as early as 3:00–4:00 AM.
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Cheer for the final stage of the HTV Cup Cycling Tournament
After a journey of over 3,000 kilometers across Vietnam, the cycling race will officially finish at the Independence Palace at noon on April 30.
The moment when all 15 teams cross the finish line will be a thrilling highlight in the midday heat. You can find a great viewing spot along Le Duan Street or other key routes like Dien Bien Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Take a break or chill at a scenic café in District 1
7:30 PM: The evening comes alive with a vibrant lineup of events across District 1. Head to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee headquarters (86 Le Thanh Ton) to catch a stunning 3D mapping light show. Over at Nguyen Hue Walking Street and along the Saigon River, enjoy lively art performances that light up the night.
Don’t miss the impressive appearance of the cavalry unit parading through Nguyen Hue and Le Loi streets, adding a unique and exciting touch to the celebration.
9:00 PM: Find a good spot to watch the fireworks. The fireworks display will light up the sky from multiple locations across the city.
A female tourist was deeply moved by the images at the War Remnants Museum. Photo: ZNews
May 1:
Morning: Visit War Remnants Museum
The museum houses over 20,000 artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the Vietnam War from 1946 to 1975. During the April 30th holiday, the War Remnants Museum welcomes 5,000 to 9,000 visitors each day, mostly international tourists, twice as many as on regular days. At almost every time slot, the museum is packed with visitors lining up to buy entrance tickets.
Afternoon: Shopping at Landmark 81
Landmark 81 is one of Southeast Asia's tallest skyscrapers and a premier shopping destination in Ho Chi Minh City. Spend your time browsing through high-end fashion boutiques, lifestyle stores, and international brands inside the Vincom Center.
After shopping, take a break at one of the stylish cafés or dessert shops scattered throughout the mall. For some fun, try the ice skating rink or VR Game Center on the entertainment floor. Don’t forget to go up to the Skyview Observatory to enjoy panoramic views of the city before sunset.
Evening: Drone Show and White Night at Bui Vien Street
8:30 PM: The largest drone show in Vietnam featuring 10,500 drones will take place at Bach Đằng Wharf.
Bui Vien Street at night is a sleepless street, as it is constantly buzzing with lively activities, shopping, and entertainment. As the sunset fades, the street lights up with neon colors. Art performances by street artists, cheerful conversations, and the lively sounds of bars and pubs create a vibrant urban scene. The street will become even more lively during this significant holiday period.
Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City are ready to celebrate 50 years of Reunification Day and so are you! Contact Asia King Travel to make sure you don’t miss a single moment of joy in the city named after the great leader.
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