On April 27, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City will host a State-level rehearsal of a grand parade in preparation for the 50th anniversary of the South Liberation and National Reunification Day, commemorating the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. This rehearsal is a key event leading up to the official celebrations scheduled for April 30, which will mark half a century since the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of Vietnam.
To facilitate the rehearsal, authorities have announced significant traffic restrictions in the city center. From 3:00 AM to 12:00 PM on April 27, various roads will be closed to both pedestrians and vehicles. Key areas affected include Ba Son Bridge, Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Dinh Tien Hoang Street, and Ton Duc Thang Street, among others. The restrictions also apply to truck traffic, which will be prohibited from entering the inner city area from 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
In preparation for the rehearsal, which began at 7:00 AM, high-ranking officials attended, including Tran Cam Tu, the Permanent Secretary of the Central Committee, and Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army. As part of the rehearsal, military units and aircraft, including Su-30MK2 fighter jets and helicopters, took to the skies, performing maneuvers that will be showcased in the official parade.
As the rehearsal commenced, thousands of citizens gathered along the streets, many arriving as early as 3:00 AM to secure their viewing spots. Phung Quang Phong, a local resident born in 1975, expressed his excitement, stating, "I am proud to be a child of this city named after Uncle Ho. This year I also turn 50, so I am very happy and proud." Families like that of Nguyen Si Trung traveled from neighboring provinces, arriving at midnight to witness this historic event.
The rehearsal featured 56 parade units, including 23 military formations, 3 militia units, and 12 police units. Notably, there were also 12 mass parade units and representations from military forces of China, Laos, and Cambodia, showcasing the deepening regional ties. After the parade, the units will disperse in four directions to designated assembly points, marking the conclusion of the rehearsal.
Residents were advised to minimize the use of personal vehicles during the event and to consider public transportation options. The police have set up contact numbers for reporting traffic issues, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order during the celebrations.
As the streets filled with spectators, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Many attendees brought flags and banners, eager to show their pride. Among them was Khuat Duy Cat, a veteran of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, who traveled from Hanoi with his wife to witness the parade. He remarked on the significance of the event, saying, "Looking back at Ho Chi Minh City after 50 years since reunification, I feel a deep sense of pride."
Do Quang Ba, a 75-year-old veteran, also made the journey from Hanoi, accompanied by his daughters-in-law. He stated, "This 50-year milestone is precious. I have come here with my family to celebrate this significant occasion, feeling the vibrant atmosphere of the city that marks a glorious chapter in our history."
The event is not only a celebration but also a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. Many veterans, like Nguyen Dinh Tinh, who fought in the Southwest battlefield, expressed hope that the younger generation would carry forward the spirit of patriotism and contribute to the nation's future.
As the sun rose higher, the rehearsal kicked off with a spectacular display of military precision. Helicopters towed the Party and National flags across the sky, while fighter jets performed aerial maneuvers, thrilling the crowds below. The excitement was palpable as thousands of spectators cheered and waved at the passing units.
In anticipation of the official parade on April 30, the rehearsal served as a crucial test of logistics and coordination. The official parade will commence at 6:30 AM and is expected to draw an even larger crowd, with many eager to witness the grand spectacle commemorating Vietnam's path to reunification.
As the rehearsal concluded, the sense of community and national pride was evident among the attendees. Many expressed their gratitude for being part of such a historic moment, reflecting on the journey of their country over the past five decades. The preparations for the anniversary continue, with citizens looking forward to celebrating this significant milestone in Vietnam's history.
