Remembrance Sunday

Remembrance Sunday is observed every second Sunday in November in the United Kingdom to honor the memory of military and civilian individuals who lost their lives during wars. This day is a time to thank all who helped end aggression and contributed to world peace.

History

The war memorial known as the Cenotaph is located in Whitehall, London, and was designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens. Originally erected as a temporary structure to mark the end of the First World War, the Cenotaph became a permanent fixture in 1920 and is now the official national memorial of the United Kingdom. Each Remembrance Sunday, people gather at the Cenotaph to lay flowers and wreaths and participate in commemorative marches.

The date was originally known as Armistice Day, focusing only on those who fought in the First World War. After the Second World War, the King of England approved a proposal to commemorate the fallen from both wars, giving the day a new name and meaning. In 1952, the event expanded to include parades, exhibitions, and various other commemorative activities.

Interesting Facts

• Red poppies are the symbol of Remembrance Sunday, representing the flowers that grew on battlefields after the fighting ended.
• During the Second World War, the word “hamburger” was rarely used in Britain due to its German origins. Instead, people called it “freedom steak.”
• The Second World War claimed more than 64 million lives worldwide.

How to Take Part

Find out what remembrance events are happening in your city and take part if possible. You can also watch live broadcasts of ceremonies if you can’t attend in person. Gathering with family to honor and remember the defenders of peace is also a meaningful way to participate.

When is Remembrance Sunday in 2025?

Remembrance Sunday is observed on the second Sunday of November each year.

Observations