Fireworks light up HCMC on National Day

The 15-minute performance began at 9 p.m. at two locations in Thu Duc City and District 11 to celebrate the 78th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day.

Colorful lights popped up on the Saigon River, where residents gathered along both banks to observe the performance.

A security guard takes a video with his smartphone on a high-rise building in Thu Duc City.

Thousands gathered at Ben Bach Dang Park in District 1 and cheered as they watched the performance.

Ry and his niece Truc Ly traveled around 10 kilometers to watch the fireworks. "My niece traveled all the way from Dak Lak Province (in the Central Highlands), so I wanted to take her here for the special performance."

Truong Binh and his girlfriend Truc Uyen reacted as they watched the show. This was their first time watching fireworks together.

A boy laughs as he watches the performance on his dad’s shoulders.

Thien Minh, 42, and his family started waiting for the show at 6:30 p.m. "This is the first time my son has seen fireworks. We came early to secure a location."

Bach Dang Park was filled with observers, many using their camera phones to capture the special show.

To celebrate National Day this year, Ho Chi Minh City has also organized other public events, including a light show on Nguyen Hue walking street, and a hot air balloon performance in Thu Duc City.