As the sun set on April 26, 2025, a vibrant atmosphere enveloped Ho Chi Minh City as thousands of residents gathered at Ben Bach Dang Park and Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, eagerly anticipating a spectacular fireworks display scheduled for 21:30. This event was part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification, a significant milestone in Vietnam's history.
From as early as 17:00, families and friends began to assemble, bringing mats, raincoats, food, and drinks to secure prime viewing spots along the Saigon riverside. The excitement was palpable, with many eager attendees sharing stories and laughter as they awaited the fireworks. Minh Ngoc, a young resident from Binh Tan district, arrived at 16:00, thrilled to capture photographs with the cannons set up by the 96th Artillery Brigade. "I wanted to make sure I had a good spot to enjoy the fireworks later on," she said.
The fireworks display, lasting for 10 minutes, was set to illuminate the night sky, drawing attention to the city's rich culture and history. The event was not just about the fireworks; it was part of a larger celebration that included a 3D mapping art program at the facade of the People's Council and the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, scheduled from 19:30 to 21:30. This innovative display was designed to transform the building into a massive canvas showcasing Vietnam's historical milestones over the past 4,000 years.
As the evening progressed, the number of attendees swelled, filling the area around Ben Bach Dang Park to capacity. Despite the heat and crowded conditions, spirits remained high. "We may be packed in here, but the energy is incredible! I wouldn't miss this for anything," one attendee remarked.
In preparation for the festivities, over 20 streets in the city center were closed to traffic from 18:00 to 22:00 to facilitate the fireworks, drone performances, and artistic displays on barges. The city’s commitment to creating a festive atmosphere was evident, with various cultural and artistic activities planned throughout the evening.
As the clock neared 21:30, anticipation grew among the crowd. The fireworks were set to launch from the Saigon riverside park in Thu Duc City, a location chosen for its stunning views of the river and city skyline. Residents, young and old, were united in their excitement, ready to celebrate this historic occasion together.
Meanwhile, as the fireworks lit up the night sky, another group of enthusiastic spectators was already gathering for the morning's dress rehearsal of the grand parade scheduled for April 27. By midnight, sidewalks along Le Duan, Dinh Tien Hoang, Pham Ngoc Thach, and Pasteur streets were filled with people, many of whom had arrived from the previous evening.
Duc Manh, a 2005-born student, and his friends made the trek from Thu Duc City, determined to secure a good viewing spot. "We decided to stay up all night because we didn't want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime event," he explained, noting that they brought flags, food, and drinks to keep the energy alive.
Nguyen Anh Thu, a student born in 2004, echoed similar sentiments. "This is a 50-year celebration; I couldn't bear to miss it. Each rehearsal has its own unique emotions, and it’s just so moving to see our soldiers and the pride of our nation on display," she said.
For families like that of Huynh Thi Dang, who traveled from Binh Duong province, the parade was a cherished opportunity to bond. They arrived at 19:00, setting up a tent for her two daughters to rest as they awaited the morning's festivities. "In a lifetime, you only get a few chances to celebrate such a significant anniversary. We wanted to make the most of it," she shared.
As dawn approached, the excitement only grew. The dress rehearsal for the parade was set to showcase a stunning display of military precision and cultural pride, with participants from various sectors of society coming together to honor the nation’s history and future. The streets were alive with chatter, laughter, and the rustle of flags as people prepared for the grand event.
The parade itself would feature a variety of performances, including traditional dances, musical acts, and military displays, all aimed at celebrating Vietnam's rich heritage and the resilience of its people. Residents were not just spectators; they were part of a collective memory being created, a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation.
As the fireworks lit up the sky, the city of Ho Chi Minh was not just celebrating a historical milestone; it was also fostering a sense of community, joy, and national pride among its inhabitants. The events of April 26 and 27, 2025, would undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight in the city’s cultural calendar, a time when the past and present converged in a dazzling display of light, sound, and emotion.
