Anzac Day 2026 Countdown

In 2026, Anzac Day in Australia is observed on Saturday, 25 April. The traditional date and the observed public holiday date are the same, so there is no separate “observed Monday” in that year. This means commemorations, services, and most changes to trading hours are focused squarely on the Saturday itself.

Because Anzac Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, its impact on work and school routines is a little different from years when it lands mid‑week. Many people will already be off work due to the weekend, but those who normally work Saturdays may be affected by public holiday rules or special trading arrangements. Travel plans, shopping, and social activities often need a small adjustment to fit around dawn services and community events on that Saturday.

Anzac Day, known locally and in English by the same name, marks the anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landings at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. The campaign was costly and did not achieve its military objectives, yet it became a powerful symbol of endurance, courage, and shared sacrifice. Over time, the date grew from a Gallipoli-focused commemoration into a broader remembrance of Australians who have served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

By 1920, Anzac Day was already recognised with parades, church services, and community gatherings across much of Australia, and legislation in various states gradually formalised it as a public holiday. The meaning of Anzac Day has continued to evolve, with more emphasis now placed on reflection, inclusiveness, and acknowledging the diverse experiences of service personnel and their families. In 2026, Australians still use Anzac Day as a moment to pause and consider how war, service, and loss have shaped the nation’s identity.

Anzac Day 2026 is a national public holiday across Australia, and because it falls on a Saturday, many government offices and most schools are already closed. For those workplaces that normally operate on Saturdays, public holiday penalty rates and special rosters may apply, depending on awards or enterprise agreements. The level of activity in city centres can feel quieter in the early morning due to dawn services, with more movement later in the day as people head to commemorative events or family gatherings.

Retail and hospitality trading on Anzac Day is subject to rules that can differ between states and territories, especially for the morning period. Many larger retailers and shopping centres remain closed for at least part of the morning, then open later with reduced or modified hours, while small convenience stores, cafes, and petrol stations are more likely to operate, though hours can vary. Public facilities like libraries and community centres often do not open at all, or only after the main commemorations, so checking local listings is important if you rely on these services.

Commemoration on Anzac Day typically begins before sunrise with dawn services held at war memorials, cenotaphs, and RSL clubs around the country. These gatherings usually include a brief service with readings, the sounding of the Last Post, a minute’s silence, and the laying of wreaths. Many people attend in person, while others may watch televised or streamed ceremonies if they cannot travel or prefer a quieter reflection at home.

Later in the morning, Anzac Day marches and parades take place in many cities and towns, featuring current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, descendants marching in honour of relatives, and community groups. After formal observances, people often meet with family and friends, visit RSL clubs, or share meals that may include traditional items such as Anzac biscuits. Informal traditions, like watching football matches or playing two‑up where it is permitted, are common social ways Australians mark the rest of the day.

Because Anzac Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, it sits in the middle of the weekend rather than creating an extra weekday off. People who usually work Monday to Friday may not see their work schedules change, but weekend workers could have altered shifts or public holiday conditions. It is wise to confirm rosters, childcare arrangements, and any sporting commitments well in advance, as local competitions or activities sometimes adjust times to avoid clashing with dawn services or marches.

For errands and shopping, planning ahead on the Friday or Sunday can reduce stress, because many larger shops are slower to open or close earlier on Anzac Day itself. Public transport often runs on a weekend or public holiday timetable and may provide additional early-morning services to major ceremonies, so checking schedules before you travel can save time. If you are organising social events, leaving space in the morning for people who wish to attend services shows consideration for how significant Anzac Day is in Australian life.

Visitors in Australia on Anzac Day 2026 will notice a different rhythm to the day, especially in the early hours of Saturday, 25 April. Streets around major memorials can be busy before sunrise as people gather quietly for services, while other areas may feel unusually calm. Tourists are welcome to attend public ceremonies, and respectful behaviour—such as dressing modestly, keeping noise low, and switching phones to silent—is appreciated.

Travelers should be prepared for changes to normal sightseeing plans, as some attractions open later than usual or close for part of the day. Booking restaurants and activities ahead of time is a good idea because seating and opening hours can be limited. For a deeper understanding of Anzac Day, visitors may choose to explore museums or memorial sites on the days before or after 25 April, when they can spend more time engaging with exhibits and stories without the pressure of public holiday schedules.