On April 30, 2025, Vietnam will observe a remarkable achievement. This year, the country celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. October 2023 is an extraordinarily historic month. It marks the fall of Saigon to communist forces in 1975, thus bringing to a close one of America’s longest and most contentious wars.
Ho Chi Minh City, once Saigon, acted as the focal point for many of the anniversary festivities. The capital’s streets spark to life with colorful outpourings of patriotism and remembrance. A colorful, joyful, inspiring, and loud procession of 13,000+ folks celebrating the power of one day. From military units to civilians to students and performers, everyone was marching in unison. Together, they formed a consensus that admired the service and sacrifice of those who fought in the war.
Eagerly awaiting these festivities, the parade started down Le Duan Street and fanned out in four different prongs across Ho Chi Minh City. The colorful procession drew enormous crowds. Overnight hundreds of thousands of citizens mooched out on the streets, anxious to observe the gala and welcome the astronauts. The whole atmosphere was one of national pride, with marchers waving flags and showing their patriotism.
In the weeks leading up to the main event, other activities were held around the city. On April 28, a couple explored the War Remnants Museum, which offers insights into the war’s impact on Vietnam and its people. The next day, I saw this woman on her moped with a conical hat emblazoned with Vietnamese flags. Getting into the spirit of reflection and celebration she in front of the Independence Palace.
Art was equally important in helping shape the commemoration—both artistically and thematically. On April 29, artist Tran Duy Truc launched a wave of posters in Hanoi. These posters pictured important battles and major figures from the Vietnam War. In Ho Chi Minh City, posters celebrating the anniversary appeared in a big way on April 28th. This contributed to New Orleans’ electric and celebratory spirit.
The cultural vibrancy was further illustrated by a Vietnamese barista skillfully pouring coffee at a bustling street market in the Cholon district on April 29. Meanwhile, a young woman in traditional Vietnamese dress posed for photographs during the celebrations, showcasing the rich heritage that continues to thrive in modern Vietnam.
Even as the official main parade began the morning of April 30, participants were enthusiastically waving their flags, marching proudly down city streets. Afterwards, they gathered to hold up a photo of Ho Chi Minh—the revolutionary leader—high, loud, proud. This inspiring portrait is a fitting tribute to his lasting legacy.
On the same day, reflective moments were observed far from Vietnam at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Their pictures were taken while honoring those who have served, a reminder of our common heritage that knows no boundaries.