A key feature is the Dawn Service. Men women veterans families and community members gather before sunrise. The service often includes the Last Post a moment of silence hymns and prayers.
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 25 Apr | Sat | Anzac Day | National |
| 27 Apr | Mon | Anzac Day Holiday | WA | |
| 2027 | 25 Apr | Sun | Anzac Day | National |
| 26 Apr | Mon | Anzac Day Holiday | ACT, NT, QLD & WA |
Marches and Parades
Later in the morning or mid day marches and parades are held in towns and cities. Veterans active service members cadets and community groups take part.
Ceremonial Speeches and Wreath Laying
Local leaders veterans organizations and officials give speeches. Wreaths are laid at war memorials and cenotaphs.
Read More: QLD School Holidays 2026 – Everything Parents & Students Need to Know
Overseas Memorials
In Gallipoli Turkey the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Australian National Memorial is a solemn highlight. Other overseas commemorations occur where Australians and New Zealanders served in history.
Tours and Attendance
For those wishing to attend in Turkey attendance passes may be required. For example for 2026 registration is expected.
Differences in 2026 vs 2027 Observance
- In 2026 because the day falls on a Saturday many Australians will face whether they get a substitute holiday depending on their state.
- In 2027 with ANZAC Day on Sunday New Zealanders typically will use Monday 26 April as the observed holiday.
- Some events in 2027 might be shifted slightly to align with convenience on Monday though major ceremonies still center on 25 April itself.
Historic Origins
The date of 25 April was first chosen in 1916 to mark the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings in 1915. Over time ANZAC Day expanded beyond Gallipoli to commemorate all Australians and New Zealanders who served in conflicts.
Symbolism and Traditions
- Poppies and rosemary are common floral symbols
- Two minute silence is observed at 11 am in many places
- Veterans wearing medals march and younger generations line the streets in tribute
- Moment of reflection and national pride with sorrow blend in the atmosphere
Why People Still Care
Even after more than a century ANZAC Day holds deep meaning
- It links past and present showing how sacrifice shaped national character
- It allows communities to honour veterans and support families of those lost
- It teaches younger generations about history duty and peace
- It reinforces shared identity between Australia and New Zealand through memory
Challenges and Modern Issues
- Attendance decline in some places fewer attend in person especially younger people
- Commercialisation risks some worry the day can lose solemnity if made too commercial
- Complicated public holidays when ANZAC Day falls on weekends rules differ
- Balancing remembrance with inclusivity ensuring all who served are honoured including Indigenous veterans
Looking Ahead to 2026 and 2027
- In 2026 many will debate or check whether they get a day off beyond 25 April depending on state
- In 2027 people in New Zealand are more assured of a Monday holiday after the Sunday
- Ceremonies will continue to evolve but retain key traditions like dawn services marches and memorials
Conclusion
ANZAC Day 2026 and 2027 remain anchored in the date 25 April even as how people observe it may shift with weekends and holiday rules. It is a solemn time across Australia New Zealand and beyond to remember those who served and died in war and conflict. The dawn services marches speeches and memorials keep alive a narrative of sacrifice unity and national identity. As these years approach communities will prepare ceremonies tour groups may register to attend events in Turkey and families will pause to reflect. ANZAC Day is not just history it is a living act of remembrance and respect for past present and future generation