ANZAC Day Observed

ANZAC Day 2026: Honouring the Spirit of the ANZACs

ANZAC Day is arguably the most significant national occasion in Australia. It is a day defined by profound solemnity, national pride, and a collective sense of gratitude. Unlike many other public holidays that focus on celebration or leisure, ANZAC Day is a day of remembrance. It marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. The word ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and the soldiers within those forces quickly became known as ANZACs.

The essence of ANZAC Day lies in the "ANZAC Spirit"—a legendary concept encompassing endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship. While the day originally focused on those who fought at Gallipoli in 1915, it has evolved over the decades to honour all Australians who have served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. It is a time for the nation to stop and reflect on the cost of war and the value of the freedoms enjoyed today, paid for by the sacrifices of servicemen and servicewomen throughout history.

For Australians, the day is characterised by early morning vigils, the haunting sound of the Last Post, and the sight of veterans marching through the streets of cities and country towns alike. It is a day that transcends politics and age, bringing together young children and centenarians in a shared act of commemoration. Whether it is standing in the pre-dawn chill at a local cenotaph or sharing a quiet drink at an RSL club, the spirit of the day remains focused on the promise: "Lest We Forget."

When is ANZAC Day in 2026?

In 2026, ANZAC Day will be observed on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

As of today, there are 112 days remaining until this important national day of remembrance.

ANZAC Day is a fixed-date holiday, always occurring on the 25th of April. This date marks the anniversary of the landing of the ANZAC troops at Gallipoli in 1915. However, because the date is fixed, it occasionally falls on a weekend, as it does in 2026. This leads to variations in how public holidays are observed across the different states and territories of Australia, with some regions granting a substitute or additional day off on the following Monday, while others do not.

The History and Origins of ANZAC Day

The origins of ANZAC Day are rooted in the First World War, specifically the Gallipoli campaign. In 1914, when war broke out, Australia had been a federal commonwealth for only thirteen years. The new mid-Pacific nation was eager to establish its reputation on the world stage. When the British Empire declared war, Australia followed.

On the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand forces formed part of an allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula. The ultimate goal was to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies, capture Constantinople (now Istanbul), and knock Turkey—an ally of Germany—out of the war. The ANZACs landed at what is now known as ANZAC Cove, but they met fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders. What was intended as a bold strike became a bloody stalemate that lasted eight months.

By the time the allied forces were evacuated at the end of 1915, both sides had suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers had been killed. While the campaign was a military failure, the actions of the Australian and New Zealand troops left a powerful legacy. The bravery and sacrifice shown at Gallipoli became a foundational "founding myth" for Australia, helping to forge a distinct national identity.

The first official ANZAC Day was gazetted in 1916, marked by a wide variety of ceremonies and services in Australia, a march through London, and even a sports day within the Australian camp in Egypt. During the 1920s, ANZAC Day became established as a national day of commemoration for the 60,000 Australians who died during the Great War. By the mid-1930s, all the rituals now associated with the day—dawn services, marches, and two-up—were firmly in place. With the advent of the Second World War and subsequent conflicts like the Vietnam War, the scope of ANZAC Day broadened to include all those who served.

The Dawn Service: A Sacred Tradition

One of the most iconic and moving traditions of ANZAC Day is the Dawn Service. The origins of the Dawn Service are likely linked to the military routine known as the "stand-to." In the trenches, the half-light of dawn was one of the most dangerous times for an attack. Soldiers were woken before dawn and ordered to man their positions with weapons ready. This "stand-to" ensured they were alert and prepared for any enemy movement.

After the war, returning soldiers sought a way to remember their fallen mates in a quiet, reflective environment that mirrored those early morning hours in the trenches. Today, Dawn Services are held at war memorials, cenotaphs, and RSL (Returned and Services League) clubs across the country.

The service typically begins in the dark, often around 4:30 am or 5:00 am. It involves a series of solemn elements:

• The Introduction: A brief history and welcome.
• Hymns and Prayers: Often reflecting the religious traditions of the early 20th century.
• The Laying of Wreaths: Dignitaries, veterans, and family members place floral tributes, often featuring rosemary (for remembrance) and red poppies.
• The Last Post: A bugle call that traditionally signaled the end of the day's activities in the military. In a funeral or commemorative context, it represents the final rest of the fallen.
• One Minute’s Silence: A period of absolute stillness for personal reflection.
• The Rouse or Reveille: A bugle call that signals the start of the day, symbolising the awakening of the spirit.
• The National Anthem: "Advance Australia Fair."

The atmosphere at a Dawn Service is unique. Despite the large crowds—sometimes numbering in the tens of thousands at major city memorials like the Australian War Memorial in Canberra or the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne—there is a profound silence. As the sun begins to rise, the ceremony concludes, often followed by a "gunfire breakfast" (coffee or tea laced with rum, reflecting the breakfast soldiers had before battle).

ANZAC Day Marches and Parades

Following the Dawn Services, the focus shifts to the ANZAC Day Marches. These parades take place in major cities and almost every regional town. The march is an opportunity for the public to show their respect and appreciation for those who have served.

The march is usually led by veterans from the most recent conflicts, followed by those who served in earlier wars. As the years pass and the number of veterans from the World Wars diminishes, the marches now include descendants of veterans who wear their ancestors' medals on the right side of their chest (veterans wear their own medals on the left).

The streets are lined with people of all ages, many waving Australian flags. It is common to hear shouts of "Thank you" from the crowd as the veterans pass by. Military bands, school groups, and various community organisations also participate, adding to the rhythmic beat of the parade. The march serves as a visual reminder of the continuity of service and the deep connection between the military and the Australian community.

Symbols of Remembrance: Poppies and Rosemary

Two plants are inextricably linked with ANZAC Day: the red poppy and rosemary.

The Red Poppy: The poppy became a symbol of war remembrance because these flowers were among the first to bloom on the battlefields of Flanders during World War I. Their bright red colour became a symbol of the blood spilled on the soil. Australians often wear a red poppy on ANZAC Day, and they are frequently placed next to names on honour rolls.

Rosemary: Rosemary is a symbol of remembrance and fidelity. It grows wild on the Gallipoli Peninsula, and for many years, it has been the tradition for Australians to wear a small sprig of rosemary on their lapel or tucked behind their medals on ANZAC Day. It is a simple, natural tribute to those who stayed behind in foreign soil.

Two-Up: The Only Day to Play

ANZAC Day is the only day of the year when the traditional Australian gambling game "Two-up" is legal to play in pubs and clubs. Two-up was extremely popular among Australian soldiers during World War I.

The game is simple but high-stakes. A "spinner" throws two coins into the air from a wooden paddle known as a "kip." Players bet on whether the coins will land with two heads up, two tails up, or one of each (which usually results in a re-throw).

The game is played in a "ring," and the atmosphere is loud, boisterous, and communal. While it is a form of gambling, on ANZAC Day, it is seen as a way to bond with others and celebrate the "mateship" that was so vital to the ANZACs. It provides a lighter, social contrast to the solemnity of the morning services.

ANZAC Biscuits: A Taste of History

No ANZAC Day guide is complete without mentioning the ANZAC biscuit. These hard, sweet biscuits were originally made by wives and women's groups during World War I and sent to soldiers abroad.

The ingredients—rolled oats, sugar, flour, coconut, butter, golden syrup, and bicarbonate of soda—were chosen because they did not spoil easily and could survive the long naval journey to the front lines. They were initially called "Soldiers' Biscuits" but were renamed ANZAC biscuits after the Gallipoli landing. Today, they remain a staple of Australian pantries, especially around April.

Public Holiday Status and State Variations for 2026

In 2026, because ANZAC Day (April 25) falls on a Saturday, the public holiday arrangements vary significantly across Australian states and territories. Australia does not have a uniform national rule for "Monday-ised" holidays when ANZAC Day falls on a weekend.

Here is the breakdown for 2026:

States with Saturday-only observance:

• New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), Tasmania (TAS), Northern Territory (NT), and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT): In these regions, ANZAC Day is observed on the Saturday. There is no replacement or additional public holiday on the Monday. This means that for many workers who do not usually work weekends, there is no "day off" during the work week.

States with additional Monday observance:

• Western Australia (WA): Western Australia has legislation that provides for a public holiday on the following Monday when ANZAC Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday. Therefore, Monday, 27 April 2026, will be a public holiday in WA.
• Queensland (QLD) and South Australia (SA): These states generally provide a public holiday on the Monday when ANZAC Day falls on a Sunday, but the rules for a Saturday fall can be more complex and often depend on industrial awards or specific proclamations. In many sectors in QLD and SA, Monday, 27 April may be treated as a holiday or a day where substitute arrangements apply for certain workplaces.

What is Open and Closed?

• Schools: All schools across Australia are closed on ANZAC Day. Since it falls on a Saturday in 2026, this does not change the standard school week, but schools in Western Australia will also be closed on Monday, 27 April.
• Retail and Supermarkets: Most states have "restricted trading" laws for ANZAC Day. Generally, major supermarkets and department stores must remain closed until 1:00 pm. This allows staff to participate in or attend morning services. Small businesses, chemists, and petrol stations are usually exempt.
• Hospitality: Pubs, cafes, and restaurants usually open, often very early, to cater to those attending Dawn Services.
• Alcohol Sales: In many states, there are restrictions on when alcohol can be served on ANZAC Day, usually prohibiting sales before noon unless accompanied by a meal.

Practical Information for Visitors and Locals

If you are planning to attend ANZAC Day commemorations in 2026, here are some practical tips to ensure you have a respectful and smooth experience:

1. Plan Your Transport: In major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, public transport often runs on a special schedule for ANZAC Day, with extra early-morning trains and buses to get people to Dawn Services. In many cases, veterans and their families can travel for free. Check your local transport authority (like NSW Transport or PTV) for "Early Morning ANZAC Day" services.
2. Dress for the Weather: Even in the northern states, late April mornings can be very chilly. If you are attending a Dawn Service, dress in layers. It is also important to dress respectfully; while formal wear isn't required, neat and tidy clothing is appropriate for a memorial service.
3. Arrival Times: For major services (like at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra), you should aim to arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early to find a spot. These events are very popular and can be crowded.
4. Respectful Behaviour: During the Last Post and the Minute's Silence, it is expected that everyone remains completely still and quiet. Mobile phones should be turned off or silenced.
5. Medals: If you are wearing a family member's medals, remember the tradition: yours go on the left (over the heart), and theirs go on the right.
6. Food and Coffee: Many RSL clubs and local cafes open their doors immediately following the Dawn Service. It’s a great time to grab a "Gunfire Breakfast" or a hot coffee and chat with locals.

The Significance of the Centenary and Beyond

While the "Centenary of ANZAC" (2014–2018) has passed, the significance of the day hasn't diminished. In fact, attendance at ANZAC Day services has grown steadily over the last two decades, particularly among younger Australians.

There was a time in the 1970s and 80s when some thought ANZAC Day might fade away as the World War I veterans passed on. However, the opposite happened. A new generation of Australians has embraced the day as a way to connect with their history and to express a non-political form of patriotism. The focus has shifted toward the human experience of war—the bravery, the suffering, and the resilience of the individual—rather than the glorification of battle itself.

In 2026, as we stand in the quiet of the morning on April 25, 2026, we continue a tradition that is over a century old. We remember the original ANZACs who landed on a distant beach in Turkey, and we remember every man and woman who has worn the Australian uniform since. We acknowledge their service, we mourn their loss, and we commit ourselves to the values of mateship and sacrifice that they exemplified.

Lest We Forget.