23 Apr ANZAC Day 2026: Where to Watch Dawn Services and Marches in Every Capital City
ANZAC Day falls on a Saturday this year (April 25), during the school holidays, with some states observing a public holiday on Monday. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, here’s a quick, easy guide to where the main dawn services and marches will take place across Australia’s capital cities.
🇦🇺 Where to Watch ANZAC Day Services & Marches (Capital Cities)
Sydney
• Dawn Service: 4:20 AM, Martin Place
• March: 9:00 AM, Martin Place & Elizabeth Street → Hyde Park South (Anzac Memorial)
• Best viewing: Along Elizabeth Street toward Hyde Park
Canberra
• Dawn Service: 5:30 AM, Parade Ground, Australian War Memorial
• March: 9:30 AM, starting at the War Memorial
• Best viewing: Around the War Memorial (large screens available)
Melbourne
• Dawn Service: 5:30 AM (arrive early), Shrine of Remembrance
• March: 9:00 AM, Flinders & Swanston Streets → Shrine
• Best viewing: St Kilda Road and Shrine precinct
Brisbane
• Dawn Service: 4:28 AM, Anzac Square Shrine of Remembrance
• March: 9:30 AM through the CBD (including Adelaide Street)
• Best viewing: Along Adelaide Street and central city areas
Perth
• Dawn Service: 5:30–7:00 AM, State War Memorial, Kings Park
• March: 9:30 AM, William Street & St Georges Terrace → Supreme Court Gardens
• Best viewing: St Georges Terrace
Adelaide
• Dawn Service: 6:00 AM, SA National War Memorial, North Terrace
• March: From SA RSL through the CBD
• Best viewing: North Terrace and city streets
Darwin
• Dawn Service: 5:30 AM, Darwin Cenotaph, Esplanade
• March: Around 9:00 AM from Bicentennial Park
• Best viewing: Esplanade area
Hobart
• Dawn Service: 6:00 AM, Cenotaph, Queens Domain
• March: Through CBD to the Cenotaph (morning service follows)
• Best viewing: Hobart CBD and Queens Domain
Watching from Home
If you can’t attend in person, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) provides live coverage of major dawn services and marches on TV and via ABC iview.
Taking Kids to ANZAC Day: What to Expect
It’s early—and often cold
Dawn services start before sunrise, so expect a very early start. Bring warm layers, blankets and something to sit on, especially for younger children.
Crowds are large and respectful
These are important national events. There may be big crowds, but the atmosphere is quiet and reflective. It’s a good chance to gently explain why people gather and what ANZAC Day means.
Noise and sensory factors
There may be gun salutes, bugle calls (like the Last Post), and amplified sound. Some children may find this loud or overwhelming—consider headphones if your child is sensitive to noise.
Standing room only in many areas
Seating is limited at most locations. If you’re bringing little ones, consider a stroller (where appropriate) or plan a clear meeting point in case you get separated.
Marches are more flexible for families
If the dawn service feels too early or intense, the mid-morning marches are often easier with kids. You can come and go more freely and still experience the spirit of the day.
Talk about it in simple terms
You don’t need to explain everything. A simple message works well: “We’re here to remember people who helped keep Australia safe.”
Watching from home is a great option
For younger children—or if the weather turns—watching the live coverage can still be meaningful and far more comfortable.
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