The year 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting time for travel, history, and cultural experiences. Here’s a chronological guide to key anniversaries and events that should be on your radar.
1. 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Phnom Penh
Date: April 17, 2025
Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The fall of Phnom Penh to the Khmer Rouge in 1975 marked a significant and somber moment in Cambodia’s history. This anniversary will be observed with memorial events and exhibitions aimed at educating visitors about this pivotal chapter.
Travel Tip: You can join YPT on our Cambodia Dark Tourism Tour which coincides with the anniversary.
2. Victory Day in Vietnam
Date: April 30, 2025
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
April 30 marks 50 years since the fall of Saigon and the conclusion of the Vietnam War. Expect parades, reenactments, and exhibitions commemorating this historic event.
Travel Tip: While we do not currently have a tour planned YPT can also arrange bespoke Vietnam Tours.
3. Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan
Dates: April 13 – October 13, 2025
Location: Osaka, Japan
Japan’s highly anticipated World Expo will focus on innovation, sustainability, and global cultural exchange. With over 150 countries participating, this is a must-visit event for travelers.
Travel Tip: YPT are currently planning a tour tat will take in Fukushima, as well as the expo. Watch this space for Japan Tours.
4. Eritrea’s National Day
Date: May 24, 2025
Location: Asmara, Eritrea
Eritrea celebrates its independence with grand parades, cultural performances, and patriotic events, especially in the capital city, Asmara.
Travel Tip: A mainstay of the YPT calendar, but also one that books out fast, so claim your place today.
5. 75th Anniversary of the Korean War Outbreak
Date: June 25, 2025
Location: South Korea
This date marks the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. South Korea is expected to host memorial events, exhibitions, and ceremonies reflecting on the war’s enduring legacy.
Travel Tip: Should the DPRK have reopened, which we are fairly sure it will have, this will be the biggest celebration of the year. And of course it is also possible to celebrate from the southern side.
6. 50th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s Independence
Date: September 16, 2025
Location: Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea will celebrate 50 years of independence with colorful parades, traditional sing-sings, and cultural festivals that showcase its incredible tribal diversity.
Travel Tip: Join YPT for our Goroka Festival Tour which will also see us partying away as PNG turns from 49 to 50!
7. National Day of North Korea
Date: September 9, 2025
Location: Pyongyang, North Korea
Should North Korea reopen to tourists, its National Day could feature grand parades, mass dances, and possibly even the return of the Arirang Mass Games.
Travel Tip: Another one reliant on North Korea being open, but again something we are confident about.
8. Tuvalu Independence Day
Date: October 1, 2025
Location: Tuvalu
This day celebrates Tuvalu’s independence from the UK. Expect traditional feasts, dances, and community celebrations on this tiny island nation.
Travel Tip: Our Least Visited Countries Tour does not see in Tuvalu’s national day, but we like the place so much we thought we would at least give it a shout!
9. World Nomad Games in Uzbekistan
Dates: To Be Announced
Location: Uzbekistan
The World Nomad Games, a celebration of nomadic sports and culture, will be hosted in Uzbekistan for the first time. Expect thrilling competitions like kok-boru (horseback rugby) and cultural performances.
Travel Tip: While dates are yet to be confirmed this is one that YPT will be there with bells on. Keep watching our Central Asia Tours for more details.
10. Independence Day in Angola
Date: November 11, 2025
Location: Angola
Angola will celebrate 50 years of independence from Portugal with parades, cultural performances, and exhibitions highlighting its journey as a nation.
Travel Tip: Aside from our regular tour YPT are currently looking into running something for national day in Angola. Again watch this space.
11. 50th Anniversary of Laos Joining the United Nations
Date: December 14, 2025
Location: Laos
Laos joined the United Nations in 1975, a pivotal step in its post-war recovery. The anniversary will likely be marked by meaningful but understated celebrations in Vientiane.
Travel Tip: In fact it is a full year of anniversaries in Laos as much like Vietnam and Cambodia 1975 was a HUGE year. YPT will be visiting on our South-East Asia Tour, as well as being able to offer bespoke trips in 2025.
12. New Year’s Eve in Turkmenistan
Date: December 31, 2025
Location: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Ring in the new year in Ashgabat, where the city’s extravagant architecture and unique cultural vibe make for a truly memorable celebration.
Travel Tip: OK, so New Year might not be the any kind of anniversary in Turkmenistan, but heck we love coming here for New Year!
And those are but a sample of the many events for 2025 of which YPT can help you organize. Next stop we will look at some of the best festivals in the world that we and you can attend.
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