Anzac Day 2026: Princess of Wales Honors Fallen Service Personnel at London Ceremony On Saturday, April 25, 2026, the Princess of Wales attended the annual Anzac Day commemorations in London, paying tribute to Australian and New Zealand service personnel who have died in conflict. Her participation marked a significant moment in the royal calendar’s observance of the day, which has been commemorated in the United Kingdom since 1916. The Princess of Wales laid a wreath at The Cenotaph in Whitehall on behalf of His Majesty The King, following the morning parade. This act of remembrance is a longstanding tradition, symbolizing national respect for the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and all who have served in subsequent conflicts. She was joined by Princess Anne, who also attended the dawn service, underscoring the importance the Royal Family places on honoring the shared military history between the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. The Princess of Wales was noted for her respectful presence during the ceremony, which included traditional elements such as readings, prayers, and a Māori waiata performed by London-based Ngāti Rānana. After the wreath-laying at The Cenotaph, the Princess of Wales proceeded to Westminster Abbey to attend the Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving. The service featured an address from the Dean of Westminster, readings from the New Zealand and Australian High Commissioners, and prayers led by children representing both nations. Anzac Day, observed annually on April 25, marks the anniversary of the 1915 Gallipoli landings during World War I. It serves as a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand for all who have served and died in military operations. The United Kingdom has held commemorative events in London since King George V attended the first service at Westminster Abbey in 1916, establishing a tradition that continues to reflect the enduring bonds between the nations. The Princess of Wales’ participation in the 2026 observance reaffirmed the Royal Family’s ongoing commitment to recognizing the service and sacrifice of ANZAC personnel, continuing a practice that has been part of royal engagements for over a century. Her presence at both the Cenotaph ceremony and the Westminster Abbey service highlighted the day’s significance in the international remembrance calendar.
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