HCM City Lights Up with Fireworks and Cultural Festivities to Mark 50 Years of Reunification
HCM City, The Gulf Observer: Brilliant fireworks illuminated the night sky over Hồ Chí Minh City at exactly 9 p.m. on Wednesday, captivating thousands of residents and visitors in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025).
The high-altitude displays were launched simultaneously at two prominent locations — the Sài Gòn River Tunnel area in Thủ Đức City and Bến Được Temple in Củ Chi District. For 15 minutes, spectators were treated to a stunning pyrotechnic show, greeted by enthusiastic cheers and applause.
The event was part of an extensive lineup of cultural and sporting activities citywide, designed to honor the nation’s historic milestone. Spectators expressed deep pride and joy as they documented the celebrations, capturing photos and sharing heartfelt reflections.
Phan Sương Tuyết Mai, a long-time resident of Bình Chánh District, shared her sentiments: “Nothing brings more joy than hearing fireworks on the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification.”
Nguyễn Thị Thu Phương, a visitor from Thái Bình Province, experienced her first fireworks show in HCM City. “I wanted to enjoy every moment of this commemorative occasion with my family,” she said.
Tourists also joined the jubilant crowd. German visitor Anna Stimkker, moved by the cultural unity, remarked, “It’s wonderful to see everyone coming together with such enthusiasm.”
In addition to the main firework displays, 28 districts across the city hosted low-altitude fireworks. At 9:20 p.m., a drone light show further dazzled onlookers, adding a modern technological touch to the festivities.
Earlier in the evening, Nguyễn Huệ pedestrian street transformed into a lively celebration ground. At 7 p.m., a grand dance performance titled Vũ điệu khăn rằn (The Dance of the Checkered Scarf) featured over 400 artists, paying tribute to southern Vietnamese soldiers and the region’s cultural identity.
The mobile police cavalry unit also paraded along Nguyễn Huệ Street, captivating the crowd with their majestic horses and ceremonial display.
Adding to the spectacle, a 3D mapping projection lit up the façade of the People’s Committee headquarters, narrating HCM City’s journey of transformation and Vietnam’s national history through a vivid combination of light, visuals, and music.
Beyond the city center, local stages and theatres contributed to the holiday spirit. The Idecaf Drama Theatre will present Lệ Chi Viên! Bí mật vườn Lệ Chi on May 1, while Thế Giới Trẻ Stage is set to debut Cô đào lại hát. Additional highlights include Ngũ quý tương phùng at Thiên Đăng Theatre, 13 Đức thầy – Đức thầy 13, Mặt đối mặt, Cây bút thần, and the patriotic drama Đồng chí.
As Hồ Chí Minh City honors five decades since national reunification, the celebrations offer a vibrant blend of remembrance, pride, and cultural unity for both citizens and international visitors alike.
