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 Service
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.
Saturday 25 April, 5:30am – 6:00am
Free entry | No tickets required | Dress warmly
Click here for More information
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
Click here for More information
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
Click here for More information
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL: National Commemorative Service & Veterans’ March
For those who prefer a mid-morning tribute, the National Ceremony is the day’s headline event. This year’s service features the RSL ACT Branch Veterans’ March, where hundreds of veterans, descendants, and personnel march onto the Memorial’s Parade Ground in a powerful display of mateship.
The 2026 address will be delivered by Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK AFC (Retd), followed by ceremonial flypasts that roar over Anzac Parade. It’s a great option for families with children who might find the 5 am start a bit too ambitious.
Saturday 25 April, 9:30am – 11:30am
Free entry | Unallocated seating available | Accessible via free shuttle bus
Click here for More information
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL: Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony
Shortly after the Dawn Service, a dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commemorative Ceremony is held at the For Our Country sculptural pavilion. This intimate service honors the service and sacrifice of First Nations people who have served in every conflict since the Boer War.
It’s a moving addition to the morning’s program, set against the striking basalt and glass memorial on the western side of the grounds. All members of the public are welcome to attend this meaningful tribute to the “Black Diggers.”
Saturday 25 April, 7:30am
Free Entry | Located near Limestone Avenue
Click here for More information
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
Click here for More information
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL: Night Projections
The commemorations actually begin before the weekend even officially starts. On Thursday and Friday nights, the facade of the Australian War Memorial will be illuminated by giant photographic projections from the Memorial’s historic collection.
Watching the faces of young soldiers and nurses from a century ago light up the sandstone building is a hauntingly beautiful experience. It’s a great way to have a quiet moment of reflection on the eve of Anzac Day without the crowds of the morning services.
Thursday 23 April – Friday 24 April, Dusk – Midnight
Free | Best viewed from the bottom of the AWM driveaway
Click here for More information
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
Click here for More information
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL: The Last Post Ceremony
As the day’s major events wind down, the Last Post Ceremony at 4:30 pm offers a final, deeply personal opportunity to pause. Each day, the Memorial shares the story of one individual whose name is listed on the Roll of Honour, followed by a wreath-laying and the sounding of the bugle.
On Anzac Day, this ceremony takes on an even greater weight. It’s a chance to hear the specific story of a fellow Australian who never came home, bringing the grand scale of the day down to a single, human narrative.
Saturday 25 April, 4:30pm
Free entry | No tickets required for the outdoor ceremony
Click here for More information
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
Click here for More information
