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Anzac Day

Honor the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom on Anzac Day - attend a memorial service, wear a poppy, or simply take a moment to remember their sacrifices.

Sunday

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEApril 25

OBSERVED INAustralia

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for April 25, because it's time to honor and remember the brave soldiers of Australia and New Zealand on Anzac Day! This special day commemorates the landing of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli during World War I. It is also a day to celebrate the ANZAC spirit of courage, mateship, and sacrifice that has been ingrained in the countries' national identity. From dawn services to parades and traditional food, there are many ways to pay tribute to this significant historical event. So let's come together as a community and show our appreciation for the sacrifices made by our ANZACs. Lest we forget.

TIMELINE

Anzac Day Timeline

ANZAC Landing at Gallipoli

On 25 April, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in an unsuccessful campaign that resulted in heavy casualties.

First Anzac Day Commemoration

The first Anzac Day was commemorated with a variety of events in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, including church services and parades.

Anzac Day Act

Australia's Anzac Day Act was passed, making it a full public holiday for the first time.

Dawn Services Instituted

The first official dawn services were held at war memorials on Anzac Day, reflecting the comradeship that the soldiers experienced as they woke for battle at dawn.

Anzac Day in Turkey

For the first time, Turkey officially recognized Anzac Day and allowed memorial services to be held at Gallipoli where the ANZAC soldiers had fought.

National Observance

From this year, Anzac Day activities and remembrances expanded to include recognition of all Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women who served and sacrificed their lives in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Anzac Day

Attend a dawn service

Start the day by attending a dawn service to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) during World War I. It is a traditional way to commemorate Anzac Day and pay respects to those who served.

BAKE

Bake Anzac biscuits

Get into the spirit of Anzac Day by baking some traditional Anzac biscuits. These oat-based biscuits were originally sent to soldiers during the war and are still enjoyed today as a symbol of the ANZAC spirit.

VISIT

Visit a war memorial

Take some time to visit a local war memorial and pay your respects to those who have served in the armed forces. You can also lay a wreath or poppy as a symbol of remembrance.

WATCH

Watch an Anzac Day parade

Many cities and towns hold Anzac Day parades to honor and remember those who have served. Attend one in your local area or tune in to a televised parade to show your support.

ORGANIZE

Organize a game of Two-up

Two-up is a traditional gambling game played on Anzac Day, where two coins are tossed into the air and players bet on how they will land. Gather some friends and family and have a friendly game to commemorate the day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Anzac Day is Important

It teaches important historical lessons

Anzac Day is an opportunity for younger generations to learn about the sacrifice made by their ancestors and understand the impact of war on society. Through educational programs and ceremonies, Anzac Day helps to keep this important part of history alive and ensures that the lessons learned are not forgotten.

It honors the sacrifices and bravery of soldiers

Anzac Day is dedicated to remembering and honoring the Australian and New Zealand troops who fought in World War I. It's a day to reflect on the courage, resilience, and selflessness of those who served and gave their lives for their country.

It brings people together

Anzac Day is a national holiday in Australia and New Zealand. It is a time when communities come together to attend dawn services, marches, and other commemorative events. It's a day to remember not only the soldiers, but also the families and loved ones affected by war.

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