Every April 25, Australia and New Zealand pause to honor the ANZAC spirit—courage, sacrifice, and mateship forged in the sands of Gallipoli 110 years ago. ANZAC Day 2025, on Friday, April 25, is more than a public holiday; it’s a moment to reflect on the 103,000 Australians and thousands of New Zealanders who gave their lives in service. Whether you’re a veteran pinning on medals, a family attending your first Dawn Service, or a traveler joining the crowds at Gallipoli, this guide is your roadmap to commemorating ANZAC Day 2025. From Sydney’s solemn marches to Wellington’s wreath-laying ceremonies, we’ve packed this post with event details, trading hours, logistics, and free downloadable images to share the spirit of remembrance. Let’s plan a day to honor those who served, together.
Why ANZAC Day 2025 Matters
ANZAC Day commemorates the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers who landed at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915, during World War I. The campaign was a grueling eight-month ordeal, costing over 8,000 Australian and 2,700 New Zealand lives. Yet, from this hardship emerged the ANZAC spirit—a legacy of resilience and loyalty that defines both nations. In 2025, the 110th anniversary amplifies this moment, with communities across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond uniting to honor all who served, from World War I to modern peacekeeping missions.
As a public holiday, ANZAC Day 2025 brings unique schedules: shops close until 1 PM, public transport ramps up, and events fill the morning. Whether you’re in Canberra’s War Memorial or a small town like Toowoomba, the day is about connection—to history, to each other, and to the values that endure. Below, we dive into the events, logistics, and practical tips to make your ANZAC Day unforgettable.
“My grandfather’s medals sit on our mantle every April. Attending the Dawn Service feels like shaking his hand across time.” — Sarah, Melbourne resident
Top Dawn Services to Attend in 2025
The Dawn Service, held at sunrise, is the heart of ANZAC Day, echoing the Gallipoli landing’s early hours. Picture standing in the pre-dawn chill, hearing the Last Post’s haunting notes, and joining a minute’s silence with thousands. Here’s where to experience this in 2025:
- Canberra, Australia: The Australian War Memorial’s Dawn Service (5:30–6:00 AM AEST) is a national highlight, broadcast on ABC TV and iView. Expect 30,000+ attendees, with pre-dawn projections from 4:30 AM. Book accessible seating at (02) 6206 9813 or ticketing@awm.gov.au. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans Ceremony follows at 7:30 AM.
- Sydney, Australia: The Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park hosts a Dawn Service (4:30 AM), with wreath-laying and the Ode of Remembrance. Public viewing opens at 3:00 AM. Register for accessible areas at accessibility@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au.
- Melbourne, Australia: The Shrine of Remembrance’s Dawn Service (5:30 AM) draws thousands, followed by free museum access. Free PTV shuttles run from RSL clubs; check ptv.vic.gov.au.
- Wellington, New Zealand: Pukeahu National War Memorial Park’s Dawn Service (6:00 AM) is broadcast on TVNZ 1 and RNZ National. Road closures start at 3:00 AM, with free parking in metered areas.
- Auckland, New Zealand: The Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Dawn Service (6:00 AM) is a city focal point. Public transport is recommended due to limited parking.
- Regional Gems: Toowoomba’s Dawn Service (5:15 AM) at the Mothers’ Memorial is intimate, while Lockyer Valley’s Clifton service (5:15 AM) offers a community feel. Visit lockyervalley.qld.gov.au for local schedules.
- International: The Gallipoli Dawn Service (5:30 AM local time) at Anzac Cove is a bucket-list event, co-hosted by Australia, New Zealand, and Turkey. In London, Hyde Park Corner’s service requires tickets (ballot closed March 21).
First-Timer’s Tip: Arrive 1–2 hours early (e.g., 3:30 AM for Sydney) to secure a spot. Wear warm layers and bring a torch for early arrivals. If you can’t attend, stream services on ABC TV, TVNZ, or the Australian Embassy Thailand’s Facebook for Hellfire Pass.
ANZAC Day Parades: A March of Pride
ANZAC Day parades bring communities together, with veterans, serving members, cadets, and youth marching to honor the fallen. The rhythmic beat of boots and the sight of medals glinting in the morning light create a powerful tribute. Here’s where to watch in 2025:
- Sydney: The NSW ANZAC Day March starts at Martin Place (9:00 AM), moving through George Street. Public viewing opens at 3:00 AM, with large screens for visibility. Veterans in uniform or with medals get free public transport via transportnsw.info.
- Melbourne: The Veterans’ March (9:00 AM) begins on Swanston Street, ending at the Shrine of Remembrance. Road closures start at 7:00 AM, impacting CBD traffic.
- Wellington: The National Commemoration parade (11:00 AM) at Pukeahu follows the Dawn Service, with a wreath-laying at the Atatürk Memorial (2:30 PM). Expect crowds and limited parking.
- Auckland: The Civic Service and parade (10:00 AM) at the Auckland War Memorial Museum draw families and veterans. Check Auckland Transport for bus schedules.
- Regional Highlights: Parramatta’s historic march returns (9:00 AM), while Toowoomba’s march (10:00 AM) winds through Queens Park. Smaller towns like Acland (10:00 AM) offer heartfelt processions; see tr.qld.gov.au.
What to Expect: Parades feature military bands, flag-bearers, and community groups. Bring a folding chair for comfort and arrive early for prime viewing. If you’re marching, contact your local RSL or RSA for registration (e.g., rslnsw.org.au).
Comparison: Urban vs. Regional Parades
| Aspect | Urban (Sydney, Melbourne, Wellington) | Regional (Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley) |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | Thousands of participants, large crowds | Hundreds of participants, intimate vibe |
| Accessibility | Public transport, accessible viewing areas | Limited transport, some mobility aids |
| Atmosphere | Formal, media-covered | Community-driven, personal |
| Events | Multiple services, AFL match | Local ceremonies, barbecues |
Trading Hours: Are Shops Open on ANZAC Day 2025?
ANZAC Day’s morning is sacred, with trading restrictions ensuring focus on commemoration. Most shops in Australia and New Zealand stay closed until 1 PM, but rules vary. Here’s what you need to know for April 25, 2025:
- Australia:
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- NSW, VIC, QLD: Major retailers like Coles, Woolworths, and Kmart open at 1 PM. For example, Coles Sydney CBD operates 1 PM–8 PM, but check coles.com.au for your local store. Small businesses (e.g., cafes) may open earlier in some areas.
- WA: Exempt stores (e.g., corner shops) can open before 1 PM; chains like Woolworths follow the 1 PM rule.
- ACT, SA, TAS: Similar restrictions, with restaurants and pubs often open post-1 PM for “gunfire breakfast” gatherings.
- New Zealand: Countdown, The Warehouse, and most retailers open at 1 PM. Essential services (e.g., pharmacies, petrol stations) may have limited morning hours; check countdown.co.nz.
Retailer Trading Hours Table
| Retailer | Region | Opening Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coles | NSW, VIC, QLD | 1 PM | Evening hours vary; check store locator |
| Woolworths | NSW, VIC, QLD | 1 PM | Some metro stores open until 10 PM |
| Kmart | Australia-wide | 1 PM | Reduced hours in regional stores |
| Countdown | New Zealand | 1 PM | Essential items available post-1 PM |
| The Warehouse | New Zealand | 1 PM | Limited morning exemptions |
Planning Tip: Stock up on essentials the day before or shop after 1 PM. If dining out, book restaurants early, as post-1 PM slots fill fast.
How to Attend ANZAC Day 2025: Logistics and Tips
Attending ANZAC Day events requires a bit of planning, but the experience is worth it. From navigating public transport to ensuring accessibility, here’s how to make your day seamless:
- Transport:
- Sydney: Free public transport for veterans in uniform or with medals. Extra trains and buses run from 3:00 AM; check transportnsw.info. Expect CBD road closures from 4:00 AM.
- Melbourne: PTV boosts services from 4:00 AM, with free travel for some groups. Shuttles from RSL clubs to the Shrine are available; see ptv.vic.gov.au.
- Wellington: Road closures around Pukeahu from 3:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Use buses or park in unrestricted metered areas for free.
- Auckland: Auckland Transport runs extra buses from 4:30 AM. Parking near the museum is limited, so plan ahead.
- Regional Areas: Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley have limited public transport; carpool or check council websites for parking.
- Accessibility:
- Canberra: The Australian War Memorial offers accessible seating; book via (02) 6206 9813 or ticketing@awm.gov.au.
- Sydney: Martin Place has accessible viewing areas; register at accessibility@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au.
- Melbourne: The Shrine of Remembrance provides ramps and shuttles for mobility needs.
- Wellington: Pukeahu has flat access; contact organizers for mobility aids.
- First-Timer’s Guide: What to Expect:
- Atmosphere: Dawn Services are quiet and reflective, with moments like the Last Post evoking deep emotion. Parades are lively but respectful.
- Preparation: Bring water, snacks, and a portable chair for parades. Wear comfortable shoes and pin rosemary to your jacket.
- Kids: Most events are family-friendly. Explain the day’s meaning beforehand using resources from anzacportal.dva.gov.au.
Checklist for ANZAC Day 2025
- Arrive 1–2 hours early (e.g., 3:30 AM for Dawn Services).
- Wear warm clothing and bring a torch.
- Pin rosemary or wear ancestors’ medals.
- Check public transport schedules or parking.
- Book accessibility accommodations if needed.
- Share your experience with our free images (#ANZACDay2025).
ANZAC Day 2025 Timeline: Plan Your Day
3:00–4:00 AM: Arrive for Dawn Services (Canberra, Sydney, Wellington). Public viewing opens.
4:30–6:00 AM: Dawn Services nationwide, including wreath-laying and Last Post.
7:30 AM: Indigenous Veterans Ceremony (Canberra).
9:00–11:00 AM: Parades in Sydney, Melbourne, Wellington, and regional towns.
1:00 PM: Shops (Coles, Woolworths, Countdown) open; trading restrictions lift.
2:30 PM: Atatürk Memorial ceremony (Wellington).
4:30 PM: Last Post Ceremony at Australian War Memorial, honoring Captain Edward Frederick Robert Bage.
Stories of Remembrance: The Heart of ANZAC Day
For many, ANZAC Day is deeply personal. Take Emma, a Sydney teacher who attended her first Dawn Service in 2024 with her two kids. “We stood in the dark, holding rosemary, and I explained why we honor the ANZACs,” she says. “When the bugle played, my son squeezed my hand. It was a moment we’ll never forget.” Or consider John, a Vietnam veteran from Toowoomba, who marches each year. “Wearing my medals feels like carrying my mates with me,” he shares. These stories remind us that ANZAC Day is about connection—across generations, communities, and nations.
Indigenous Contributions: The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans Ceremony in Canberra (7:30 AM) honors Indigenous service members, whose contributions were often overlooked. In 2025, expect tributes to figures like Major Angela Uphill, delivering the Anzac Day Address.
Youth Engagement: Young people are revitalizing ANZAC Day, with many wearing ancestors’ medals or joining cadets. Schools use the Anzac Day Kitbag (free at anzacportal.dva.gov.au) to teach its meaning, ensuring the legacy endures.
