N.B. For the 2018 list of ANZAC Day venues for Canberra, click here.
Around this time of year, a chill enters our capital letting us know it’s definitely autumn. In this season we recognise ANZAC Day – a day that commemorates tough times in the last 100 years and how Australia rose to the occasion. This year there are a number of events and activities going on around Canberra to help you fully immerse yourself in the traditions of the day on Tuesday 25 April 2017.
4 am
The Pedlar is opening its doors at the crack of dawn for those who need a caffeine hit or egg and bacon roll before the dawn service at the Australian War Memorial. Being super close to the War Memorial, The Pedlar is the ideal location for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the full Anzac Day experience.
ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial
5 am
Visit the Australian War Memorial and attend the Dawn Service, National ANZAC Day Ceremony and Last Post Ceremony commemorating the 102nd anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces in the First World War.
6 am
If you are heading to the Dawn Service for Anzac Day, stroll on over to Walt’s for breakfast afterwards – open from 6 am onwards! Catch all the NRL and AFL action on the big screen and a bit of two-up from 12 pm to 6 pm.
ANZAC Day at Olims Bar & Bistro
6 am
Olims Bar and Bistro at Mercure Canberra is open to the public on ANZAC Day. Wander down after the dawn service to enjoy the day with plenty of food and entertainment!
6 am
EQ Cafe & Lounge is open on ANZAC Day for breakfast and lunch. Drop in anytime from 6am (or after the dawn service at the Australian War Memorial) until 3pm. But get in quick because bookings are essential! Call (02) 6161 1666.
Local Crafts Take on Carlton United Breweries at Mint Garden Bar
7 am
For Mint’s last event of the season, they’ve partnered with five Local Craft Brewers to put them to the test in a friendly tap-off against the Australian classic, Carlton United Breweries. Come and get around local beers, good company and of course a cheeky game of two-up!
7 am
Siren Bar is kicking off ANZAC Day with a $15 Gunfire Breakfast and a free shot of rum if you are wearing medals for the occasion. Kicking off at midday will be a lively game of two-up hosted by the Siren staff.
Commemorate at Ainslie Football & Social Club and Gungahlin Lakes Club
10 am
Ainslie Football and Social Club invite members and guests to commemorate ANZAC Day. From 10 am the club will offer all-day dining, from 12 pm members and guests can put their bets in for a game of two- up and at 1.30pm a trumpeter will be playing The Last Post before the annual ANZAC Day AFL game, Essendon v Collingwood kicks off on the big screen.
Soldier On at Ducks Nuts Bar & Grill
11 am
With the partnership of charity Soldier On, Ducks Nuts are planning one heck of an ANZAC Day. Two-up will kick off at midday with $16 Young Henry’s jugs available all-day, before annual NRL and AFL clashes are aired live and loud on the big screens!
Two-up at Vikings Chisholm and Town Centre
12 pm
Vikings have built a reputation for being one of the best spots in Canberra to play two-up on Anzac Day. Two-up this year will be held at both Town Centre and Chisholm Vikings. This will be the first year Town Centre steps up to host the popular game, with plans for the ring to be placed in the downstairs outdoor patio area and function room. Players must be 18 years of age to play. All profits from two-up will be donated to the Vikings Fishing Club and Vikings Rugby.
Play two-up at Casino Canberra
12 pm
Drop into the Casino Canberra at midday this ANZAC Day for one of Canberra’s largest games of two-up. Multiple rounds will be running from 12 – 9 pm so there is plenty of opportunities to buy in!
ANZAC Day lunch at Queanbeyan Bowling Club
12 pm
If you’re over the NSW border this ANZAC Day why not indulge in the special lunch menu being served at the Queanbeyan Bowling Club? The have something for everyone including burgers, fish and chips and the traditional roast lamb.
ANZAC Day Live Music at The Old Canberra Inn
5pm
After a lively game of two-up, sit back and relax with some live music at The Old Canberra Inn featuring Zambezi Sounds Canberra, Betty Slim and Endrey.
Image credit: Australian War Memorial
