Experience Vietnam’s heartfelt patriotism and monumental pride through the April 30 Reunification Day parade, a world-record-breaking event that unites a nation in peace and celebration.

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025) – a historic milestone marking a significant turning point in the revolutionary journey of the Vietnamese people! 

“The National Concert”: A Powerful Name for a Powerful Parade

For Vietnamese people, the grand military parade on April 30, 2025, is far more than a ceremonial march — it’s affectionately and proudly called the “national concert”. Why? Because it’s not just about military might or national history. It’s about unity. It’s about remembrance. And above all, it’s about love for the homeland.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (30/4/1975 – 30/4/2025) — a once-in-a-generation milestone. In the lead-up to the main event, locals and visitors alike witnessed a series of rehearsals and performances across Ho Chi Minh City, igniting a wave of emotion and national pride that swept through the streets.

A Salute to History: 21 Cannon Blasts Echo Across Vietnam's Reunification Day

One of the most solemn and symbolic highlights of the April 30 celebration in 2025 was the rehearsal and ceremonial firing of 21 cannon salutes at Bach Dang Wharf Park to mark the opening of the commemorative ceremony. This powerful tribute captured the attention of thousands, drawing people from across Vietnam who gathered in Ho Chi Minh City to witness the grand moment firsthand.

As the thunderous echoes of the cannon fire rang out over the Saigon River, the crowd stood in reverent silence, then erupted into proud applause. Families, veterans, young people, and tourists flocked to the site to take commemorative photos with the soldiers, many dressed in full ceremonial uniform. The atmosphere was filled with patriotic joy, as the line between civilians and military blurred into one united celebration.

It was a rare and moving sight — the people and the armed forces of Vietnam sharing smiles, stories, and handshakes, bound together by a deep love for the nation and an unshakable pride in its past, present, and future.

A World-Class Spectacle: From Rehearsals to Glory

The city came alive with coordinated rehearsals on the nights of April 22 and 25, followed by a grand rehearsal on April 27, setting the stage for the main parade on April 30. The skies over Reunification Palace and surrounding boulevards were filled with the roaring sounds of helicopters towing the Vietnamese flag, accompanied by advanced fighter jets such as Su-30s and Yak-130s performing high-level aerial maneuvers. These powerful displays weren’t just for show — they symbolized the strength, confidence, and peace that Vietnam proudly maintains today.

The people of Vietnam stood tall under a peaceful sky, eyes lifted not in fear, but in pride — knowing that the freedom to look up in peace was earned through the blood and sacrifice of generations before.

Recently, many tourists visiting Vietnam have looked up at the sky over Ho Chi Minh City and seen helicopters and fighter jets flying overhead, with cannons positioned on the ground, often feeling confused or concerned about what’s happening. In those moments, young Vietnamese are always quick to approach with a smile and say:
"Hi! No worries – those helicopters, jets, and cannons you're seeing in Ho Chi Minh City are part of a rehearsal for Vietnam's big celebration: the 50th anniversary of Reunification Day (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025). It's not war, it's memory – and pride."

Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A Canvas of Light and Patriotism

As night fell, Nguyen Hue Walking Street transformed into a radiant stage of national pride. Spectacular 3D mapping projections illuminated buildings with historic imagery, while fireworks at Bach Dang Wharf lit up the sky in a dazzling symphony of color. 

The highlight? A world record-breaking drone show featuring 10,500 synchronized drones, painting breathtaking images of the Vietnamese flag, doves of peace, and iconic symbols of the nation high above the city skyline.

It was not just entertainment — it was storytelling through light, technology, and art. It was the heartbeat of a nation made visible.

10,500 drones lit up the night sky in an extraordinary performance, recreating a defining moment in Vietnamese history — the iconic scene of a tank crashing through the gates of the Independence Palace. This spectacular drone display commemorated the sacred hour for the entire Vietnamese nation.

At exactly 11:00 a.m. on April 30, 1975, T-54 tank No. 843 rammed through a side gate of the Independence Palace but then broke down. Immediately afterward, T-59 tank No. 390 charged forward and smashed through the main gate. Company commander Bùi Quang Thận leapt from the tank, ran up to the rooftop of the palace, and planted the flag of the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam.

Shortly after, President Dương Văn Minh declared an unconditional surrender. This historic moment marked the sacred hour of national unification and the glorious end of the Vietnamese people’s resistance war against the United States for national salvation.

Patriotism in Every Vietnamese Heart

What makes this event even more profound is the emotional connection shared by every Vietnamese citizen. As fighter jets sliced through the sky in perfect formation, the crowd below — young and old — stood still, many with tears in their eyes. Because to be Vietnamese on this day is to carry within yourself a deep gratitude and fierce pride: for independence, for peace, for the right to live free.

In a time of peace, the quiet confidence of the people standing under the very sky where once war raged, reflects a truth that resonates deeply: freedom is sacred, and never taken for granted.

A Nation That Rose From War to Lead with Peace

Vietnam is not only remembered as a nation of warriors — but as a symbol of peace. From the ashes of war, Vietnam has risen to become an emerging power, contributing to global progress while staying true to its cultural soul. Today, Vietnam stands proudly among nations, not only in strength but in hospitality, unity, and compassion.

A Must-See for International Visitors

For those fortunate enough to be in Ho Chi Minh City this April, the Reunification Day celebration is not just an event — it’s an invitation to witness the spirit of Vietnam in its purest form. You’ll be warmly welcomed into a nationwide celebration where locals openly share their stories, smiles, and deep love for their country.

It’s a rare, unforgettable experience that turns travelers into lifelong friends of Vietnam.

Welcome to Vietnam.

On this day of honor, unity, and love, the whole world is invited to witness a nation’s pride — one heartbeat, one flag, one people.

Don't miss out—plan your trip now and be part of this spectacular event!

Start your journey today and create unforgettable memories in Vietnam here:

Vietnam Package Tour - Immersive 15-Day Journey Through Vietnam's Heart and Soul (innoviet.com)

Saigon Walking Tour - Sai Gon Hidden Alleys

Small Group Saigon Walking Tour

Half-Day Ho Chi Minh City Walking Tour

Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour - Ben Tre boat and bike experience

Mekong Delta homestay 2 days tour with cycling trip in non-touristy villages

Mekong Delta tour 3 days with homestay - cycling - Cai Rang floating market 

We hope that your experience will be nothing short of amazing

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