City to mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday

City to Mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday

Oxford will gather on Tuesday, 11 November, to observe Armistice Day, commemorating the moment in 1918 when the guns of the First World War fell silent. The event symbolizes a collective reflection on peace and remembrance.

Ceremony at Oxford Town Hall

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Louise Upton, will lead a brief service beginning at 10:55am on the landing area at the top of the stairs in Oxford Town Hall. The City Rector, Reverend Anthony Buckley, will deliver a short prayer, followed by a two-minute silence at 11am.

“Armistice Day commemorates the signing of the Armistice between the Allies and Germany in a railway carriage in the Forest of Compiègne, France, at 5am on 11 November 1918.”

Six hours after the signing, at 11am, the fighting came to an end, bringing relief after four years of devastating conflict.

Origins of the Two-Minute Silence

Since 1919, people across the nation have paused for two minutes of silence at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month to remember those who gave their lives in service to their country. The observance was introduced by King George V, influenced by Australian journalist and veteran Edward George Honey, who first suggested the idea of a national moment of reflection.

Remembrance Sunday Parade

Oxford will also hold a Remembrance Sunday event on 9 November, featuring a parade and service at the War Memorial on St Giles. Participants will assemble in Magdalen Street East and West before marching at 10am, directed by WO1 James Massey of the Mercian Regiment.

Author’s Summary

Oxford will honor Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday with ceremonies led by civic and military figures, preserving the tradition of reflection and public remembrance.

Oxford City Council — 2025-11-06