When is Anzac Day 2021?

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The Westminster service will not be going ahead, however the day will still be commemorated with a podcast, wreath laying, prayers and a blessing by the Dean of Westminster, which you can watch online at the Westminster Abbey website.

Why is Anzac Day marked?

The date is used to remember those who lost their lives in the Gallipoli campaign, which sought to knock the Ottoman Empire out of the war.

It took place in the Gallipoli peninsula, modern day Gelibolu on Turkey's European side.

Both sides suffered heavy casualties, with over 8,700 Australians and 2,700 New Zealanders losing their lives in the allied expedition.

Although the Gallipoli campaign’s mission to knock the Empire out of WW1 was a stalemate, the actions of soldiers are revered and respected today.

The “Anzac legend” became part of the identity of both Australia and New Zealand.

How do people celebrate Anzac Day?

The day traditionally kicks off with commemorative services at dawn, to mimic the time of the troops landing in Gallipoli.

Dawn was often a time for attack due to the preference of catching the enemy in the near-dark.

Later on during Anzac Day, marches are held by former and current servicemen through cities, and ceremonies are held at war memorials.

The National Ceremony is held at the Australian War Memorial, which includes hymns, laying of wreaths, a one minute’s silence and the national anthems of the two countries being played.

However this year events will be slightly different, and those who wish to pay their respects can do so online.

Official advice from the Australian government advises people to "privately commemorate Anzac Day, in-line with the latest health advice".

Some people eat special foods such as an Anzac Day biscuit, which is made from oats, sugar, butter, flour, boiling water and syrup.

These biscuits were thought to have been sent from wives to soldiers abroad, due to them keeping for a long time during their journey.