Discover Exciting Activities Celebrating Vietnam's Reunification Day 2025

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Reunification of Vietnam, which took place on April 30, 1975. This is a sacred milestone that represents half a century of pride for the Vietnamese people. Therefore, this year's April 30th celebration features numerous exciting activities that not only attract the local community but also draw international visitors to participate and experience the festive atmosphere.

1. What is Reunification Day (April 30)

April 30 is the day that marks the liberation of the South and the reunification of the country, officially ending the war in Vietnam. April 30, 1975, stands as one of the most glorious milestones in the history of the Vietnamese nation.

On this day, the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign concluded in a decisive victory, completely liberating the South, ending more than 30 years of continuous warfare, and ushering in a new era – an era of independence, freedom, and national unity.

For that reason, April 30 has become one of the most significant and sacred national holidays. It is a time for the Vietnamese people to honor the immense contributions of previous generations and to pay tribute to the heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives for national independence.

At the same time, it is an occasion to reflect on the heroic pages of history, to foster patriotism, to ignite national pride, and to remind today’s and future generations of the priceless value of peace.

2. Notable events and festivals on April 30, 2025 in Vietnam

In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Reunification of Vietnam (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025), Ho Chi Minh City has organized a series of unique events and festivals, offering an impressive experience for both locals and visitors.

Here are some of the most notable events during this holiday.

2.1 Grand parade on Le Duan street

Rehearsals, trials, and final practices for the state-level parade and march took place from April 18 to April 27, on Le Duan Street, from 8:00 PM to midnight (on April 18, 22, 25), and from 7:00 AM to noon on April 27 (final rehearsal).

The main event will officially occur on the morning of April 30, from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with the participation of Party and State leaders, the armed forces, and a large number of people.

2.2. 3D mapping combined with multinational art

On the evenings of April 19, 26, 29, and 30, the 3D mapping light art program titled "Journey of 50 Years – Heritage and Future" will take place from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the façade of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee building. Creative groups from France, Singapore, Belgium, and Vietnam will collaborate to present a space filled with sound, light, and vibrant imagery.

2.3. Drone show and fireworks display in the sky

On the evening of April 28, at Bach Dang Wharf in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City held a final rehearsal for the 10,500-drone performance, from 8:30 PM to 8:45 PM.

The event featured a spectacular light show, recreating key historical moments such as the tank crashing through the gates of the Independence Palace, the liberation flag flying above the Palace, and the image of President Ho Chi Minh. This performance was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the “Largest simultaneous drone light show.”

In addition, on the evening of April 30, Ho Chi Minh City will launch fireworks at 30 locations, from 9:00 PM to 9:15 PM, with two high-altitude fireworks sites: the area at the beginning of the Saigon River Tunnel (Thu Duc City) and the memorial site for martyrs at Ben Duoc (Cu Chi District).

2.4. Street art and cavalry parade

On the evening of April 30, Nguyen Hue Street will come alive with two special activities: a cavalry parade by the Mobile Police Force and a performance of the "Rang-Scarf Dance" in an interactive community style. Additionally, Military Region 7 will collaborate with other units to organize special art programs, such as the live broadcast "Epic of Peace" and the art program "The Country in Joyful Unity."

These events not only commemorate a significant milestone in Vietnam’s history but also provide an exciting and dynamic atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

3. Experiencing the Festive Atmosphere of April 30: What do international tourists say?

This year’s April 30 holiday not only holds great significance for the Vietnamese people but also leaves a lasting impression on international friends. Despite coming from different countries, many international visitors felt a strong sense of Vietnamese patriotism when immersing themselves in the celebration atmosphere in Ho Chi Minh City.

Throughout the city’s central streets, the festive spirit was vividly expressed through the vibrant red-and-yellow national flags, banners, slogans, and a series of lively activities taking place during the commemorative week.

Many international tourists eagerly joined the crowds, participating in community activities such as watching fireworks, attending parades, visiting historical exhibitions, and taking souvenir photos at decorated sites. Some visitors even chose to buy T-shirts featuring the Vietnamese flag, wave handheld flags, or learn to sing a few lines of traditional Vietnamese songs to sing along with the crowd.

Lan, a tourist from the United Kingdom, shared with Pháp Luật TP.HCM newspaper that being in Ho Chi Minh City during the April 30 celebration was a great honor. According to her, witnessing the solemn yet joyful atmosphere and the excitement of the local people gave her a special feeling, even though she came from another country.

In an interview with Thời sự Hà Nội news program, Dean – a tourist from the United States – expressed his feelings during the event: “I feel that everyone here is very happy. I’m also very happy to see Americans and Vietnamese people getting along so well. This is my Vietnam shirt. I wore it today to attend this special event.”

The patriotic spirit, deep gratitude, and festive energy in Ho Chi Minh City left a profound emotional impression on international visitors – a vivid story of peace, freedom, and the unifying strength of the Vietnamese people.