HO CHI MINH CITY — A unique blend of patriotism and romance is taking center stage at Bach Dang Wharf in District 1, where an artillery array set up for the upcoming 50th anniversary of national reunification has unexpectedly become a wedding photography hotspot.
Since early April, dozens of couples have flocked to the riverside location to take wedding photos in front of 15 ceremonial cannons, creating a striking contrast between the symbols of national pride and the joy of personal milestones.
Early Morning Shoots, Deep Symbolism
At 5 a.m., Mai Nguyet and her fiancé made a 30-kilometer journey from Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province, to be among the first in line to take photos. Dressed in a white wedding gown, Nguyet posed with her husband in front of the cannons as passersby, many donning Vietnamese flags and red shirts with yellow stars, applauded and congratulated the couple.
Nguyet explained their choice was both nostalgic and meaningful. Having lived in Ho Chi Minh City for over a decade, the city holds special memories for the couple. “The entire city is decorated in celebration of April 30—from alleys to balconies—and we wanted our wedding to reflect this moment of unity and pride,” she said.
A Social Media Sensation
This isn’t just a local trend. The TikTok keyword “April 30 wedding photos” has garnered over 4 million views, with thousands commenting on the creative and patriotic photo shoots.
Photographer Nguyen Quang, who captured one of the first wedding albums at the site on April 9, said the images quickly went viral—reaching 1 million views within 24 hours. Since then, more than 20 couples, including some from Hanoi, have booked photo sessions.
“Maybe couples want their love stories to reflect not only their personal joy but also the happiness and pride of the whole country,” Quang shared. He and his team carefully design each shoot—selecting respectful, modest outfits and incorporating the Vietnamese flag as a prop. The main challenge? The heavy crowds, which mean waiting up to 20 minutes to get the perfect shot.
A Trend Rooted in National Identity
According to Chieu Anh Bridal’s representative, Mr. Dinh Duy, the trend began in early April and shows no signs of slowing. “Our clients want to convey a message: their love is nurtured in peace, made possible by the sacrifices of past generations,” he said.
Local resident Duc Duy, 26, noted that the renovated Bach Dang Wharf—free from street vendors and clutter—has long been a magnet for tourists. “But since the cannons were installed, it’s become iconic. From 5:30 to 9:00 a.m., you’ll see dozens of couples posing for wedding photos.”
Love and Patriotism Intertwined
The emotional and symbolic nature of the photos has drawn praise across the country. One couple, Viet Khoa (24) and My Linh (22), even brought their own “I love Vietnam” banner to the shoot. “We were inspired by moments of national pride, like when couples took wedding photos during the U23 football victory celebrations,” said Khoa.
With April 30 approaching, this creative intersection of love, memory, and national pride has turned Bach Dang Wharf into more than a scenic riverside location—it’s now a symbolic canvas where young couples pay tribute to Vietnam’s past while celebrating their shared future.
