Remembrance Day on 11 November solemnly marks the Armistice that ended World War I in 1918. At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the UK observes a two-minute silence; poppy wreaths are laid at The Cenotaph and memorials from London to local village greens.
Ceremonial Tribute & National Reflection
The focal point is London's Cenotaph ceremony, where royalty, veterans, political leaders and cadets assemble to lay wreaths. Buglers sound The Last Post, and the nation falls silent—uniting millions in shared remembrance.
- Two-minute silence: Observed at 11 am nationwide—schools, workplaces and broadcast media pause.
- Poppy appeal: Red poppies, worn on lapels, raise funds for the Royal British Legion's veterans' services.
- Local services: Parish churches and civic groups hold parades, readings and wreath-laying at local war memorials.
History & Symbolism
Remembrance Day grew from Armistice Day commemorations begun in 1919. Key milestones:
- 1919: First Armistice Day observance—with silences and wreaths—at London's Cenotaph.
- 1921: The red poppy adopted as the symbol of remembrance, inspired by Flanders fields.
- 1939-45: Expanded to honour sacrifices in both World Wars and subsequent conflicts.
Community & Educational Activities
- School programmes: Lessons on war history, poetry readings of “In Flanders Fields” and pupil-led services.
- Charity collections: Poppy sellers raise over £40 million annually for veterans' care.
- Exhibitions & talks: Museums host displays of uniforms, letters and oral histories.
- Interfaith prayers: Chapels, mosques and temples join in multi-faith remembrance services.
Top 5 Ways to Observe Remembrance Day
- Attend The Cenotaph service in Whitehall or watch the live broadcast on the BBC.
- Visit a local war memorial for a community wreath-laying and two-minute silence.
- Wear a red poppy—purchase from Royal British Legion collectors or approved retailers.
- Read war poetry—share works like John McCrae's “In Flanders Fields” at home or school.
- Support veteran charities—donate or volunteer with organizations such as SSAFA or Help for Heroes.
Etiquette & Considerations
- Stand, remove hats and remain silent during the two-minute pause.
- Observe formal dress at memorial services—dark, respectful attire.
- Avoid loud conversations or mobile phone use near memorial sites.
- Purchase official poppies—avoid unvetted replicas that don't fund veterans.
FAQs
Why 11 November at 11 am?
That moment in 1918 marked the ceasefire on the Western Front—“the war to end all wars.”
What's the difference between Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday?
Remembrance Sunday falls on the second Sunday in November; Remembrance Day is always 11 November. Both observe the two-minute silence.
Can I wear a poppy after 11 November?
Yes—many wear poppies until Armistice Day or through the end of the month to continue supporting veterans.