For those looking to pay their respects and soak up the community spirit, Anzac Day in the capital is always a standout moment in our calendar. With Anzac Day falling on a Saturday this year, Canberra is settling into a true long weekend of commemoration, reflection, and of course, a few rounds of two-ups.
Here are 10 activities and events we suggest for your Anzac Day weekend in Canberra.
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL: The Dawn and Commemorative Services
The centerpiece of the nation’s commemorations, the Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial is a bucket-list experience for every Canberran. As the sun rises over Mt. Ainslie, thousands gather in the pre-dawn silence to hear the sounding of the Last Post and reflect on the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.
Be sure to arrive early to catch the pre-dawn readings from 4:30 am, where ADF representatives read personal excerpts from the diaries and letters of those who served. It’s a somber, beautiful start to the day that sets the tone for the weekend ahead.
Other services at the War Memorial throughout the day include the National Commemorative Service & Veterans’ March, Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony, Night Projections, the Last Post Ceremony.
Saturday 25 April, 5:30am – 6:00am
Free entry | No tickets required | Dress warmly
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OLIMS BAR & BISTRO: All day Food, Two-up & Big Screen Footy
Located just a short stroll from the Memorial in Braddon, Olims Bar & Bistro is the go-to spot for those who want to transition from reflection to celebration. They host Canberra’s largest outdoor two-up arena in their massive beer garden, with all proceeds from the game being donated to charity. Once the “spinner” has finished for the day, settle in for a massive afternoon of sport. They’ll be screening the AFL and NRL Anzac Day clashes on the big screen, accompanied by pub classics and a lively atmosphere that carries well into the evening.
Saturday 25 April, 6:00am – late (Two-up from midday)
Free entry | Two-up proceed go to charity | Bookings recommended
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WALT & BURLEY: Breakfast and music on the foreshore
If you prefer your Anzac Day with a side of lakefront views, head down to the Kingston Foreshore where Walt & Burley will be firing up the coffee machine from 6:00 am. It’s a prime spot for those looking to enjoy a full breakfast by the water immediately following the morning services, offering a relaxed atmosphere before the afternoon energy kicks in.
The day shifts gears at midday when the Two-Up ring opens. With live music providing the soundtrack to the afternoon and all proceeds from the games going directly to support Soldier On, it’s a fantastic way to give back while enjoying the lakeside breeze. Whether you’re there for a quiet morning meal or a lively afternoon of “Come in spinner,” the foreshore vibes are hard to beat.
Saturday 25 April, 6:00am – late (Two-up from 12:00pm)
Free entry | Full breakfast available from 6:00am | Bookings recommended
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THE DUXTON: Two-up on the Terrace
For those in the Inner North, The Duxton in O’Connor is a great stop on the Anzac Day circuit. While the ground floor is always buzzing, the real action happens upstairs on The Terrace. This open-air space offers one of the best atmospheres in the suburbs to settle in for a long afternoon of commemorative drinks and community spirit.
Opening their doors at 11:00 am, they provide a perfect transition for those looking for a hearty lunch before the games begin. The Two-Up ring kicks off at midday, and with plenty of screens to catch the AFL and NRL action, it serves as a central hub for sports fans and traditionalists alike. With a focus on cold beers and classic pub fare, it’s a high-energy spot to spend the Saturday holiday.
Saturday 25 April, 11:00am – late (Two-up from 12:00pm)
Free entry | Walk-ins welcome | Bookings recommended for groups
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ROSA’S AT THE LAWNS: Post-Dawn Breakast
If you’ve braved the early wake-up call for the Dawn Service, your first priority is likely a strong coffee and a hearty meal. Rosa’s at The Lawns is perfectly positioned for a scenic sit down after the service rush, offering a warm sanctuary near the lake.
Rosa’s will be open from 7:00am offering coffee and full breakfast options. Their lunch service and pizzas will be operating as usual making for a great option should you be enjoying what promises to be a sunny day by the lake later in the day.
Saturday 25 April, Open from 7:00am
Bookings recommended
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CANBERRA IRISH CLUB: Bus, Breakfast & Bets
The Irish Club in Weston goes all out for Anzac Day, offering a “one-stop-shop” for the day’s activities. They provide a dedicated bus service from the club to the Dawn Service and back, so you don’t have to worry about the nightmare of parking or road closures.
After the return trip, guests can dig into a “hearty breakfast” before the traditional two-up games kick off at 1 pm in the lounge. With Molly Bloom’s bistro serving up lunch and dinner all day, it’s the perfect place to set up camp for the Saturday.
Saturday 25 April, Bus departs 4:30am | Two-up 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Tickets required for bus/breakfast | Free entry for Two-up
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ASSEMBLY: Dawn Till Dusk in Braddon
For the Braddon crowd, Assembly is a staple for Anzac Day. Opening their doors at 6 am, they provide a much-needed haven for those coming straight from the Dawn Service. Expect hot coffee, a bustling breakfast trade, and the footy playing on every screen.By midday, the beer garden becomes a sea of “Come in spinner!” as their annual two-up game gets underway. It’s high energy, loud, and exactly what a post-service celebration should feel like in the heart of the city.
Saturday 25 April, 6:00am – late
Free entry | Bookings highly recommended for tables
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HOPSCOTCH: Morning Martinis and Lonsdale Street Spirit
This year, Hopscotch are making a move to cater to the late-morning crowd, opening up at 10:00 am for a hearty breakfast and a caffeinated kick-start. To help shake off the early wake-up call, they’re pouring $12 Espresso Martinis from 10:00 am until midday, the perfect fuel for a long day.
Two-Up kicks off at 12:00 pm, in their expansive Beer Garden. With its central location and social atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to round up your crew, grab a wood-fired pizza, and settle in for the long haul.
Saturday 25 April, 10:00am – late
Free entry | Walk-ins welcome | Bookings recommended for tables
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