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April 30th is always a special moment for Vietnamese people, from older generations to today's youth, to relive national pride together. This year, as the half-century mark since the country's reunification approaches, the atmosphere of preparation for the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025) is spreading everywhere with large-scale rehearsals. This is not only an occasion to honor the past but also a significant event that conveys a powerful message of unity and the aspiration for peace to all generations.
A highlight of the 50th anniversary of national reunification is the grand military parade and procession scheduled for 8:00 AM on April 30, 2025, along Le Duan Boulevard, in front of the Reunification Palace (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City). This is expected to be one of the largest military parades and processions in recent years, gathering over 35 contingents from the armed forces and police, along with the participation of students, workers, and representatives from all walks of life. Notably, the event is planned to include a 21-gun salute, a flypast by military aircraft, and the release of doves.
On social media, the anticipation for the holiday is building day by day. From Facebook to TikTok, people are enthusiastically sharing their experiences of "hunting" for good viewing spots and preparing flags, flowers, and red-and-yellow star shirts to readily join the nation's grand celebration.
Currently, many young people have already planned to stake out their spots, even applying their concert-going experience to secure the best vantage points to witness the upcoming military parade and procession. Many are encouraging each other to arrive very early, some even planning to be there by 3–4 AM, just to secure an ideal standing position amidst the crowds.
For those who can't wake up early to jostle for space, especially families with young children, the preferred option is to book hotels with direct views overlooking Le Duan Boulevard months in advance. One person shared, "I booked a room with a direct view of Le Duan two months ago because I want my child to witness such a special moment as well, comfortably."
Want to Fully Experience the Military Parade? Don't Miss These Points:
According to the plan, the military parade and procession will have three important milestones:
Preliminary Review: Scheduled for April 25, 2025.
Final Rehearsal: Scheduled for April 27, 2025.
Official Event: Starting at 8:00 AM on April 30, 2025.
The parade contingent will start at 8:00 AM from the beginning of Le Duan Boulevard (the main gate of the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden), proceeding straight towards the Reunification Palace. Upon reaching Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, the contingent will split into two directions: half will turn right, moving along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street and gathering at Hoa Lu Stadium; the other half will turn left, heading towards Ham Nghi Street, concluding and gathering in the Ton Duc Thang Street area.
The total number of personnel mobilized for this year's military parade and procession is estimated to be around 13,120, making it one of the largest such events in many years.
"Golden" Locations for Watching the Parade:
Starting Point: The beginning of Le Duan Boulevard at the main gate of the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden.
Along the Main Route: Both sides of Le Duan Boulevard leading to the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace).
Notable Intersections: The area near Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Tower, and the US Consulate.
Ending Point: The final section near the Independence Palace where the contingent approaches to conclude its march.
Highly Sought-After Elevated Views:
5th Floor of Diamond Plaza: Offers a potential panoramic view of Le Duan Boulevard.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel: Rooms with views overlooking Le Duan Boulevard are highly desirable (if booked in advance).
M Plaza Saigon Building: Higher floors of M Plaza located on Le Duan Boulevard can also provide expansive views.
However, according to many who have attended previous parades, "being on the street is still the most fun" because you get to immerse yourself in the vibrant and lively atmosphere, where red-and-yellow star flags wave in the early morning sun and continuous applause echoes along the entire street.
Where to Park? How to Get There?
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
Le Van Tam Park: Vo Thi Sau Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1.
Turtle Lake (Ho Con Rua): Park at private parking lots around the International Square roundabout or near Vo Van Tan, Pham Ngoc Thach, and Tran Cao Van streets.
Tao Dan Park: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai or Truong Dinh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1 (parking lot located on the side of the park, near Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street).
Children's Hospital 2: 14 Ly Tu Trong Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 (large motorbike parking area, close to the parade route).
Vincom Center Dong Khoi: 72 Le Thanh Ton Street / 45A Ly Tu Trong Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
Diamond Plaza: 34 Le Duan Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 (just a few minutes' walk from the Reunification Palace).
Area near Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Many private parking lots on Huynh Thuc Khang, Hai Trieu, and Ngo Duc Ke streets, close to the center, but it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
From these locations, you can walk a short distance to the main boulevard. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing services or buses, which are both convenient and help avoid traffic congestion.
One important note is that from April 25th to 30th, many central streets will be rerouted and have traffic restrictions, so residents should carefully check traffic information or follow live broadcasts if traveling is inconvenient.
What to Prepare When Going to Watch the Parade:
According to many young people with experience attending military parades and processions, and even concerts, the most important tip is to arrive very early. If you want a good spot, many encourage each other to travel from 3–4 AM. Crowds start gathering very early, so "staking out" an ideal spot at dawn is a must. For those looking to "hunt" for panoramic views, especially from buildings or hotels along Le Duan Boulevard, it's advisable to book at least a few weeks in advance, as many places have been fully booked for months.
Don't forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and bottled water to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated while waiting. Holding a red-and-yellow star flag will help you immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of this grand national celebration.
The military parade commemorating the 50th anniversary of reunification is not only an occasion to express gratitude but also a proud reminder of what our ancestors sacrificed. Let's meet at dawn, in the heart of Saigon adorned with flags and flowers, to experience this historic day together with all the gratitude, pride, and responsibility of today's generation.
