Armistice Day: What is it about and when will the two-minute silence be held?

10 November 2022, 14:29 | Updated: 10 November 2022, 14:57

Armistice Day marks the signing of the armistice in 1918
Armistice Day marks the signing of the armistice in 1918. Picture: Alamy

By Emma Soteriou

Armistice Day, also known as Remembrance Day, celebrates its 104th anniversary this year.

Listen to this article

Loading audio...

The occasion marks the signing of the armistice in 1918 - an agreement that saw the end of fighting in the First World War - ahead of negotiations.

It will be followed two days later by Remembrance Sunday, which will fall on November 13, with an annual two-minute silence set to take place.

The National Service of Remembrance takes place at the Cenotaph in London
The National Service of Remembrance takes place at the Cenotaph in London. Picture: Alamy

What time is the two-minute silence?

The silence will take place at 11am on Friday, marking the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

Another two-minute silence also takes place at the same time (11am) on Remembrance Sunday.

Why do we hold a two-minute silence?

The event is held to remember those in the UK and Commonwealth who have served in the armed forces since 1914 as well as their families.

It celebrates the vital role they played, both serving and sacrificing themselves for the country.

Read more: Kate Middleton gives boy her poppy in sweet moment during visit to London children's centre

Read more: RAF Cadets warned Remembrance Sunday parade could break the law as police scrap 'gesture of goodwill'

British troops during World War I
British troops during World War I. Picture: Alamy

What events are taking place to mark the occasion?

On Armistice Day, the National Memorial Arboretum is set to broadcast an annual Service of Remembrance, live from the Armed Forces Memorial.

Then, on Remembrance Sunday, the National Service of Remembrance is being held at the Cenotaph in London.

This year's service is significant as it is the first led by Charles as King.

Despite hoping to go last year, the Queen was unable to make an appearance on health grounds, meaning Charles laid a wreath as the most senior royal attending.

Members of the Cabinet, former Prime Ministers, the Mayor of London and other ministers are expected to attend this year.

There will also be a March Past involving 10,000 veterans.

More Latest News

See more More Latest News

Election 2024 Trump Netanyahu

Netanyahu meets with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, offering optimism on Gaza ceasefire

APTOPIX Idaho Wildfires

Air tanker pilot killed as US wildfires spread

Donald Trump reacts after July 13 assassination attempt

Trump struck by bullet during assassination attempt, FBI says

France was rocked by a series of attacks against railway lines early on Friday

Celine Dion kicks off Paris Olympics in rain-drenched opening ceremony after France rocked by rail arson attacks

Highs of 27C are coming this weekend

Heatwave on the way as temperatures to hit 27C this weekend - will your area get some sunshine?

The Park Fire burns along a road in California

Man arrested over California fire sparked by burning car pushed into gully

Israel has hit out at Britain's decision

Israel hits out at Starmer for dropping Britain's challenge to international arrest warrant for Netanyahu

Justin Timberlake at a premiere

Timberlake ‘not intoxicated’ and drink-drive charge should be dismissed – lawyer

What is your least favourite chocolate bars?

Brits divided over UK’s ‘worst chocolate bar’ with one Christmas classic branded ‘disgusting’

The French weather has been wet ahead of the opening ceremony

'Disaster' as flood warning issued for Paris ahead of Olympic opening ceremony, after arsonists target French railways

A crying woman at the site of a mudslide in Ethiopia

Ethiopia declares three days of mourning as toll of mudslide victims increases

Hongchi Xiao has been found guilty of the manslaughter of Danielle Carr-Gomm

Alternative healer found guilty of manslaughter of pensioner in slapping therapy workshop

Kennie Carter

Four teens jailed over revenge murder of 16-year-old Kennie Carter in Manchester, as heartbroken mother pays tribute

Graziano Di Prima has been placed under medical supervision

Ex-Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima 'placed under medical supervision' after being axed over Zara McDermott abuse claims

Insolvent Ted Baker could be set to close all its stores in a matter of weeks

Ted Baker to ‘close all stores’ in a matter of weeks as hundreds face unemployment

Nasa may have found a sign of life on Mars

Nasa finds Mars rock that 'may have hosted life', with mysterious 'features we've never seen before'