Anzac Day 2027 — How Many Days Until Anzac Day?

About Anzac Day

Anzac Day — 25 April — is Australia's and New Zealand's most solemn national commemoration, honouring the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. It originated to mark the anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli, Turkey, on 25 April 1915 — the opening of the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I, which became a defining moment in both nations' national identities.

The Gallipoli Campaign was intended to capture Constantinople and open a supply route to Russia. The ANZACs suffered enormous casualties — over 8,000 Australians and 2,700 New Zealanders died — and the campaign ultimately failed militarily. Yet the courage, resilience, and camaraderie (the "Anzac spirit") displayed by the soldiers became foundational to how both countries understand themselves.

Dawn services are held at war memorials across Australia and New Zealand, and at Anzac Cove in Gallipoli itself. Returned soldiers march through city centres, and the Last Post is played. In the afternoon, two-up (a traditional gambling game permitted only on Anzac Day) is played in pubs. It is one of the very few days that brings Australians and New Zealanders together in virtually unanimous commemoration.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli, Turkey, on 25 April 1915
Over 8,000 Australians and 2,700 New Zealanders died during the Gallipoli Campaign
Dawn services begin at 4:30–6:00 AM at war memorials across Australia and New Zealand
Two-up — a coin-tossing gambling game — is legally permitted in pubs on Anzac Day only
The Gallipoli dawn service in Turkey is attended by thousands of Australian and NZ tourists every year

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Anzac Day?

Anzac Day is always on 25 April every year. It is a public holiday in Australia and New Zealand and does not move to a Monday if it falls on a weekend.

What is the dawn service?

Dawn services are commemorative ceremonies held at war memorials at sunrise on Anzac Day — reflecting the time of the original Gallipoli landings. They include the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the Rouse.

Is Anzac Day a public holiday?

Yes — Anzac Day is a national public holiday in Australia and New Zealand. All businesses, schools, and government offices close. Many sporting and social events are restricted in the morning.

Why is Anzac Day so important?

Anzac Day represents the values of courage, sacrifice, mateship, and resilience — collectively called the "Anzac spirit." It is the closest thing both Australia and New Zealand have to a shared national identity.