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when is the 2 minute silence

The 2‑minute silence for Remembrance is traditionally held at 11:00 am on 11 November each year, marking the Armistice at the end of the First World War.

Main UK observances

  • The nationwide two‑minute silence takes place at 11:00 am on 11 November (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month) across the UK and Commonwealth.
  • Many people also observe a two‑minute silence at 11:00 am during the national service on Remembrance Sunday, which is the second Sunday in November.

What it commemorates

  • The time and date echo the Armistice that ended fighting in the First World War in 1918, which came into effect at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
  • The silence is used to reflect on the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community in past and present conflicts.

Other national silences

  • The UK occasionally holds additional national two‑minute silences for special commemorations, such as the planned silence at 12 noon on 15 August 2025 for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.
  • Similar silences may also be declared after major national tragedies or for significant memorials, with details announced in news and government updates.

If you are asking about a specific year or event, checking current UK government or Royal British Legion announcements near the date will give the exact time and arrangements.