Ho Chi Minh City will stage a 15-minute fireworks display alongside a wide range of cultural, artistic and sporting events to mark the 51st anniversary of the Liberation of the South and the 140th anniversary of International Workers’ Day.

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Fireworks light up the sky over Ho Chi Minh City during the Lunar New Year of Binh Ngo 2026. Photo: Tuan Hung

The city’s People’s Committee has recently issued a plan outlining activities to commemorate major national holidays and key historical and political events throughout 2026.

A highlight of the celebrations will be the fireworks show, scheduled from 9pm to 9:15pm on April 30. Organized by the Department of Culture and Sports in coordination with the city’s High Command, the display is expected to illuminate the skyline of Vietnam’s southern economic hub.

Across the city center, major streets will be decorated with artistic lighting, creating vibrant public spaces for residents and visitors to explore and capture memorable moments during the holiday.

In the lead-up to the fireworks, Ho Chi Minh City will host a series of tribute activities. An exhibition titled “Non song thong nhat” will open on April 24 along Dong Khoi Street and at Chi Lang Park.

On April 29, delegations will pay tribute at the City Martyrs Cemetery, Ben Duoc Memorial Temple in Cu Chi District and other historical sites. Incense and flower offerings will also take place at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Ton Duc Thang Museum and Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Later that evening, a special live televised art program will be held, while a range of sporting and cultural events, including the April 30 cross-country race, the Ho Chi Minh City Television Cup and the Orchid Festival, will take place simultaneously, contributing to a festive atmosphere.

In parallel, various cultural performances for workers and students, the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day, along with traditional games, competitions and book fairs, will be organized, adding rich cultural color to the celebrations.

Tuan Kiet