Anzac Day
Guide to the date, history, cultural origins and celebration traditions of Anzac Day in New Zealand.
History & Origins of Anzac Day
Anzac Day, observed on April 25th, is the most sacred day of national remembrance in Australia and New Zealand. It commemorates the anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli, Turkey, on April 25, 1915, during World War I. While the campaign was a devastating military defeat, the raw courage, endurance, and camaraderie of the soldiers forged the 'Anzac Legend', permanently shaping both nations' modern national identities.
How It Is Observed & Celebrated
Observances begin with solemn dawn services at war memorials, followed by veteran parades and reunions. In the afternoon, communities play the traditional, normally illegal gambling game of 'two-up' in RSL clubs, and bake traditional Anzac oatmeal biscuits.
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