Every 10 year on April 30th, the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) transform into a sea of red and gold, echoing with pride, memory, and the powerful spirit of national unity. In 2025, the atmosphere was no different—if anything, it was more electrifying than ever. The city came alive as locals and tourists alike gathered to honor Vietnam’s Reunification Day, marking 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of the North and South.
The parade and commemorative activities marking the 50th anniversary of national reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025) are scheduled to take place at 6:30 AM on April 30.
The parade will cover a stretch of nearly 1.5 kilometers, from the beginning of Le Duan Street (near Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens) to the end of Le Duan Street (at the Independence Palace), then branch into four different directions toward assembly areas.
Prime viewing locations for the parade include the starting point at Saigon Zoo, both sides of Le Duan Street leading to the Independence Palace, April 30 Park, and the area near Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
Additionally, people can watch the parade from high-rise buildings such as Diamond Plaza, M Plaza, and the Sofitel Saigon Hotel.
Intersections along Le Duan Street are relatively spacious, providing ample standing room for parade spectators.
Large LED screens (six in total) are placed along Le Duan Street to enhance the viewing experience for the public.
At the conclusion of the parade, forces will divide into four directions to their designated assembly points as follows:
Direction 1: From Le Duan Street - Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street - Dien Bien Phu Street - Hai Ba Trung Street, ending at Le Van Tam Park.
Direction 2: From Le Duan Street - Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street - Le Loi Street - Nguyen Thi Nghia Street - Phu Dong Thien Vuong Roundabout - Cach Mang Thang 8 Street, ending at Tao Dan Park.
Le Loi Street is wide and offers good visibility. This route passes by Ben Thanh Market and September 23 Park (District 1). Citizens can use the metro to reach Ben Thanh Station to easily access the parade route.
Direction 3: From Le Duan Street - Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street - Le Thanh Ton Street - Nguyen Hue Street - Me Linh Square, ending at Bach Dang Wharf Park.
Bach Dang Wharf Park will also feature 15 cannons, which will fire 21 rounds at the highlight of the event.
Direction 4: From Le Duan Street - Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street - Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street - Dinh Tien Hoang Street, ending at Hoa Lu Stadium.
Spectators can follow the parade via 20 large LED screens placed along seven major streets: Le Duan (6 screens), Nam Ky Khoi Nghia (3 screens), Le Loi (3 screens), Nguyen Hue (2 screens), Dong Khoi (2 screens), Dien Bien Phu (2 screens), and Nguyen Dinh Chieu (2 screens).
Due to the anticipated large crowds, traffic congestion is expected, and parking will be difficult. Citizens are advised to use public transportation to reach the parade areas.
As the date approaches, citizens are encouraged to check updates on traffic plans in central areas to choose the most convenient travel routes.
The parade will feature a 21-cannon salute against the backdrop of the Vietnamese national anthem, along with formations of military units, militia and self-defense forces, police units, and mass organizations. Approximately 13,000 participants are expected.
The Air Defense - Air Force Command will deploy dozens of Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters, Yak-130 fighter jets, and Su-30MK2 fighters for an aerial display.
Vietnam has also invited military units from China, Laos, and Cambodia to participate in this grand parade.
Parade forces will pass nearly 1.5 km along Le Duan Street before splitting into four directions.
Prime spots to view the parade include Saigon Zoo, Le Duan Street, and April 30 Park.
Le Loi Street offers clear visibility for parade watchers.
Traffic congestion is expected - citizens are advised to use public transport.
Large LED screens along major streets will broadcast the parade live.
13,000 participants will join the parade along with military air and ground displays.
Military forces from China, Laos, and Cambodia will also take part in the parade.
Nguyen Hue
