ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Martin Place

About this activity

There is something about standing in the dark at 4:20am, surrounded by thousands of Sydneysiders in respectful silence, that stays with children for life. The ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Martin Place Cenotaph is Australia's most powerful act of community remembrance — and it is completely free and open to everyone.

In 2026, ANZAC Day falls on Saturday 25 April, which means the whole family can attend without worrying about a school night. Crowds begin gathering at the Cenotaph from around 3:30am. The service is brief, solemn and deeply moving — with the Last Post, a minute's silence, and the Rouse. Many families make it an annual tradition, followed by a warm breakfast nearby.

Families can look forward to:

• A profound, moving experience children will remember into adulthood
• The haunting sound of the Last Post echoing through a silent Martin Place
• The first light of dawn breaking over the city during the Rouse
• Free public transport runs through the night for commuters
• Crowds begin gathering from 3:30am — arrive early for a good vantage point
• Combine with a pre-dawn family breakfast afterwards at a nearby cafe
• Broadcast live on free-to-air TV and radio for those who prefer to watch from home