PP Travel Blog
Taking Kids to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day: A Memorable & Meaningful Journey
Taking your kids to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day can be a unique and moving experience.
Not only will they learn about the importance of this day in Australian and New Zealand history, but they will also gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who served in the ill-fated Gallipoli Campaign in 1915 in Turkey.
In this brief guide, we'll dive into what makes this journey so special, and share tips and tricks for an unforgettable experience.
The Significance of Anzac Day
What is Anzac Day?
Anzac Day, observed on April 25th each year, commemorates the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers during World War I, particularly at the Gallipoli Campaign. It symbolises bravery, honour, and national unity and is the first time that the emerging nations of Australia and New Zealand as they broke out from the shadow of the British Empire. Understanding this will help your kids better appreciate the date, the day and the reasons as to why we, as adults, are always emotive on this day no matter where we are in the world.
Why is it commemorated in Gallipoli?
Actually, Anzac Day is commemorated by Australians and new Zealanders all over the globe however specifically, on ANZAC Day, it is commemorated in Gallipoli because it was the site of the pivotal Gallipoli Campaign, where ANZAC troops landed on Ottoman shores back in 1915 and fought against the Ottoman Empire. The soldier's courage and sacrifice left a lasting impression, making Gallipoli a significant location for honouring their memory. You entire family, kids included, will experience the tight bond that has now developed with the Turkish people, and they better understand that "special relationship" between our three nations.
Taking Kids to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day: The Experience
Embarking on this journey with your children will provide them with a first-hand account of the Gallipoli Campaign's significance.
By visiting the various monuments, memorials, and cemeteries, they will gain an appreciation for the sacrifices made by the ANZAC troops.
Preparing for Your Journey to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day with Kids
Researching and planning
Decide what you will visit on the day aside from the memorial sites that PP Travel will already visit. There are more than 30 allied cemeteries on the peninsula, and it won't be possible to visit all of them logistically so knowing where you want to go and what you want to see is essential.
Booking accommodations and transportation
PP Travel takes care of everything to provide a seamless "no worries" experience for your family on ANZAC Day.
Gallipoli Sites to Visit with Your Kids
- ANZAC Cove - the site of the initial amphibious military landings.
- Lone Pine Cemetery - A pivotal point in the campaign and where some of the bloodiest action took place.
- Quinn's Post - Great location to look back towards the Greek Islands of Imbros and Lemnos from where the allied forces departed towards Gallipoli.
- The Nek Cemetery/Walkers Ridge - Site of the famous battle depicted on the movie Gallipoli starring Mark Lee and Mel Gibson. At Walkers ridge you can look back down to the beaches where the ANZACS landed and really understand the scope of the effort that was against them due to the tough unforgiving terrain.
- Chunuk Bair Memorial - The highest point on the peninsula where the Kiwis briefly took only to be overrun by Turks a day later.
Are There Special Activities for Kids of ANZAC Day?
Whilst there are no specific activities for kids this will absolutely prove to be one educational trip they'll never forget.
PP Travel specialises in taking attendees to the Dawn Service at Gallipoli on ANZAC Day of any age, and our tour guides will ensure that kids are bought into the conversations we have regarding the campaign.
Plan Your Family Trip By Educating Your Children Before the Trip
- Reading books and watching documentaries as a family prior to your visit will ensure you are better equipped to really immerse yourself in the happenings and memorial services that will occur on ANZAC Day itself.
- Discussing family connections to ANZAC history - does you family have any? If not it's likely someone you know will have a connection of some sort so ask around before you depart on your trip and perhaps try and track down records and historical documents on their experiences back in 1915.
Creating a Memorable Family ANZAC Experience
- Taking photos and journaling
- Connecting with other families on the journey - There are always families that bring along kids from the very young up until their late teens. Connecting with other families can also hope to create a shared experience and perhaps facilitate some new lifelong friendships.
Frequently Asked Questions For Kids and Families At Gallipoli
- What is the best age for taking kids to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day? There is no specific age, but it's important to consider your child's maturity and interest in history. Generally, children aged 10 and up may be better equipped to appreciate the experience.
- Is it safe to travel to Gallipoli with kids? Yes, Gallipoli is safe for families, but it's essential to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines provided by your travel agency or tour operator.
- What should we pack for our trip to Gallipoli? Pack comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, and layers for varying weather conditions. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, and a reusable water bottle.
- Do we need a guided tour for our visit to Gallipoli? While not required, on all PP Travel Tours we provide both a Turkish Guide and am Aussie or Kiwi guide which can be greatly beneficial to provide historical context and ensure you see all the essential sites.
- How can we honour the fallen during our visit? Participating in the Dawn Service, laying wreaths or flowers at memorials, and observing moments of silence are ways to pay tribute to those who served.
- What are some other historical sites to visit in Turkey? Consider visiting Istanbul, Ephesus, and Cappadocia for a more extensive exploration of Turkey's rich history.
Make the Most of Your Trip to Gallipoli With Your Kids
Taking your kids to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day is an opportunity for both education and reflection.
By immersing them in this significant historical event, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who served.
With proper planning and preparation, you can create a meaningful and memorable journey that will stay with your family for years to come.
Lest We Forget!
Being at Gallipoli for the Dawn Service on Anzac Day where our forefathers landed in Turkey, creating the Anzac legend, will be a moment cherished by a privileged few. PP Travel has just completed another series of very successful tours for the Da ... read more
PP Travel Anzac Day Gallipoli Options
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