This year, in 2023, Anzac Day falls on Tuesday, April 25, meaning many will be taking the day off on Monday and making a four-day weekend of it. But if you’re not among that crew and sticking around this Anzac Day, what can you do? Given that it’s a public holiday, what’s even open?
If you don’t have any plans yet and are wondering what your options are, you’re in the right place. Here’s a breakdown of what’ll be open and for how late, shop and venue-wise, this coming Anzac Day.
Hoyts Cinemas
Are Hoyts cinemas open on Anzac Day? Yep! If you’re keen to see a flick, like John Wick: Chapter 4, Scream VI or Creed III, you’ll be pleased to know that Hoyts will have screening times on the day. As always, check movie session times online and, if possible, book your tickets ahead of time, to avoid disappointment.
Restaurants, Bars or Cafés
Most restaurants, bars and cafes will be open on Anzac Day. While many venues will open straight after the dawn service, they’ll only be allowed to serve alcohol during their regular licensed hours. Keep in mind that many venues may add on a public holiday surcharge, too.
Pubs known for two-up are likely to be packed as many people attending dawn service head straight to the pub after. So, if you want to make sure you get in, go early.
Two-up is an unregulated form of gambling and is therefore outlawed every day of the year — apart from Anzac Day. On this day, licensed premises can host the game.
Shops
In shopping centres like Westfield, shop hours will vary, if they open at all. If a shop is open, most likely, it’ll be from 1pm. Be sure to check online or call the store before heading to it.
Woolworths’ Opening Hours on Anzac Day
On Anzac Day, most stores, including supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths, will only be open from 1pm. In Northern Territory, however, they’ll be open all day. In Western Australia and Queensland, all Woolworths will be closed apart from Brisbane Airport. In South Australia, Rundle Mall and regional stores will be open, while Millicent and Adelaide metropolitan stores will be closed.
Coles’ Opening Hours on Anzac Day
In NSW, ACT and VIC, all Coles stores will be open from 1pm. In Queensland, they’ll be closed all day. In WA, all metro stores will be closed, but regional stores will be open from 12pm or 1pm. In SA, all metro stores will be closed, while CBD stores will be open 12-5pm and regional stores will be open 12-8pm. In NT, all Coles stores will be open from 12pm. And in Tasmania, all stores will be open from 12:30pm.
Bottle Shops
Like other shops, bottle shops will only be open from 1pm on Anzac Day.
Post Offices
Most post offices will also be closed on Anzac Day, though some in big cities or at shopping centres will remain open. No mail deliveries, including Express Post, will take place on the day, so if you want someone to receive something before Anzac Day, you’ll have to send it the week before.
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