Vietnam marked a profound milestone on April 30, 2025, as the nation celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War with vibrant public festivities, traditional performances, and patriotic symbolism that echoed the spirit of unity and resilience. The commemorations took place across the country, with the most elaborate events unfolding in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, a city that witnessed history five decades ago.
The centerpiece of the national celebration was held on Le Duan Street, where the atmosphere blended solemn remembrance with festive pride. The streets were adorned with red banners, national flags, and traditional decorative motifs reflecting the country’s revolutionary legacy. Senior Vietnamese leaders, war veterans, and youth representatives gathered for a ceremonial flag-raising and speeches that emphasized national harmony and collective strength. The call for unity, deeply rooted in the teachings of revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, was a recurring theme of the day.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the city became a canvas for cultural expression. A massive parade featuring more than 13,000 participants included not just military personnel but also students, workers, and artists. Floats showcased Vietnamese history, cultural heritage, and national development, blending traditional elements with contemporary imagery. An air show added excitement to the day, with helicopters and fighter jets soaring over the skyline as symbols of modernity and independence.
As night fell, fireworks illuminated the skies above seven iconic city landmarks, including the Saigon River Tunnel and Dam Sen Cultural Park. The displays drew thousands of families and tourists, transforming public spaces into scenes of joyful commemoration. These pyrotechnics were not merely entertainment—they served as a cultural expression of triumph, gratitude, and hope.
Propaganda art, a distinctive genre in Vietnam’s visual culture, took center stage during the celebration. Prominent artist Tran Duy Truc unveiled new works capturing the spirit of the era, including images of North and South Vietnamese women soldiers standing together. The bold colors and symbolic forms, rooted in the aesthetics of wartime posters, remain an enduring part of Vietnam’s cultural identity. Public galleries and street displays ensured that these powerful visuals reached audiences of all ages.
The commemorations also included a series of exhibitions, musical performances, and sporting events such as the Ho Chi Minh City Television Cycling Cup. These activities were designed to engage communities and especially young people, encouraging them to reflect on their country’s journey and future.
International participation added another cultural layer to the event. A Chinese military contingent joined the parade, acknowledging the historical support Vietnam received during its liberation struggle. The presence of U.S. Consul General Susan Burns symbolized a maturing diplomatic relationship, and the broader reconciliation that has taken place since 1975.
Among those reflecting on the day was American war veteran Chuck Searcy, now a humanitarian working to remove wartime explosives through Project Renew. His personal transformation and long-standing contribution to Vietnam’s recovery underscored a shared cultural journey of healing and rebuilding.
The 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification was not just a political event—it was a celebration of cultural memory, identity, and national pride. Through art, ritual, and collective participation, the country paid homage to its past while looking forward to a peaceful and prosperous future.