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25 Places to Go in 2025 Spotlight: Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam Festivals
by Matador Creators Jan 9, 2025

See the full list of the best places to go in 2025

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April 30, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification of Vietnam, and there’s no better place to experience the celebrations than Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s southern megalopolis. HCM — as it is often called by residents, travelers, and digital nomads who have long cradled the city for its vibrant cafe culture, affordable lifestyle, and tech scene — will play host to the grand ceremony on the anniversary date. Events will celebrate Vietnamese literature and art, culture and sport, and of course, the country’s famed cuisine. A military parade will also be a major focal point.

Even if you can’t make the celebration itself, the entirety of 2025 will see events celebrating the 135th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh, the 80th anniversary of the tradition of the Vietnam People’s Public Security Forces, and the 20th anniversary of the All-People Movement for National Security Protection. Base yourself in District 1 in the heart of the city (here are the best Airbnbs in the area) and take advantage of walkability to your morning bowl of phở, dozens of cafes for Vietnamese coffee, and the action of the celebrations themselves.

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