Anzac Day Countdown 2025
Anzac Day - April 25th
Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, observed annually on April 25th. It commemorates the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli, Turkey, during World War I on April 25, 1915. More broadly, it honors the service and sacrifice of all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
The Landing at Gallipoli
The Gallipoli campaign was a significant event in the history of both Australia and New Zealand, marking a major turning point in their sense of national identity. Despite the military defeat, the courage and endurance shown by the Anzacs have become legendary, and April 25th has become a day to reflect on the qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice.
Dawn Services and Marches
Anzac Day is typically commemorated with dawn services held at war memorials around Australia and New Zealand, as well as at Gallipoli itself. These services often include hymns, prayers, the reading of the Ode of Remembrance, and a minute's silence. Later in the day, Anzac Day marches take place in cities and towns, where veterans, current service personnel, and descendants of those who served participate.
Key Anzac Day Traditions
- The Last Post: A bugle call played during commemorative ceremonies to signify the end of the day's duties and, by extension, to honor the fallen.
- The Ode of Remembrance: A stanza recited at Anzac Day services, beginning with "They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old..."
- Rosemary: A herb that grows wild on the Gallipoli Peninsula and is worn on Anzac Day as a symbol of remembrance.
- Anzac Biscuits: Simple biscuits traditionally made by the wives and girlfriends of soldiers during World War I and sold to raise funds for the war effort.