How Remembrance Sunday Is Observed in Northern Cyprus – A Tribute Abroad

How Remembrance Sunday Is Observed in Northern Cyprus – A Tribute Abroad

🎖️Remembering the Fallen Far From Home

Each year on the second Sunday in November, the UK and Commonwealth nations mark Remembrance Sunday to honour those who sacrificed their lives in service. In Northern Cyprus, where many British expatriates and veterans reside, the day is deeply respected and observed with heartfelt tributes that blend British tradition with Cypriot warmth.

✨ Why Remembrance Matters in Northern Cyprus

Remembrance Sunday holds special meaning on the island because:

• A large British expat community calls North Cyprus home, many of whom have military connections.

• The Royal British Legion Kyrenia Branch organises annual services and the Poppy Appeal, keeping British remembrance traditions alive.

• Turkish-Cypriot veterans are increasingly recognised for their role in the Cyprus Regiment and shared wartime history.

• The day unites both communities in respect, peace and shared memory.

🎖️The Main Ceremony in Girne (Kyrenia)

The principal Remembrance Sunday service takes place at the Old British Cemetery on Bedrettin Demirel Street, Girne (Kyrenia). Organised by the Royal British Legion, the ceremony draws British expatriates, local dignitaries and Turkish-Cypriot veterans.

The service usually follows this order:

1. Parade & Assembly – Standard bearers and veterans gather at the memorial.

2. Hymns & Readings – The service begins with prayers, music and readings such as The Kohima Epitaph.

3. Two-Minute Silence – Observed precisely at 11 am UK time (1 pm in Cyprus).

4. Wreath-Laying Ceremony – Representatives lay poppy wreaths on the memorial.

5. Bugle Call & National Anthems – The Last Post and Reveille echo through the cemetery.

6. Community Gathering – Many attendees then move to local venues for refreshments and remembrance lunch events.

🌺The Poppy Appeal and Community Support

Leading up to November, poppies are available across North Cyprus through Royal British Legion volunteers. All donations go toward supporting veterans and their families.Local bars, restaurants, and hotels often display collection boxes and posters, helping raise awareness and funds for the cause.

If you’re a business owner, consider hosting a Remembrance Lunch or offering a two-minute silence at 1 pm local time. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to show support and connect with your community.

🙌 How to Participate

• Attend the ceremony in Girne (Kyrenia) — everyone is welcome.

• Wear a red poppy with pride in the days leading up to the event.

• Pause for silence at 11 am UK time on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

• Share photos and tributes on social media with tags like#RemembranceSundayCyprus, #RoyalBritishLegionKyrenia, and #PoppyAppealNorthCyprus.

• Support the Poppy Appeal through local fundraising drives.

🙏Respecting the Local Context

Remembrance in Northern Cyprus is more than a British tradition — it’s a shared act of remembrance. Many Turkish-Cypriots served bravely in British regiments during the world wars, and their contribution is increasingly recognised at local ceremonies. Honouring their memory bridges cultures and strengthens mutual respect on the island.

🌸Final Thoughts

Whether you’re living in North Cyprus, visiting for winter sun, or running a local business, Remembrance Sunday offers a poignant reminder of shared history and sacrifice. Attending or observing the event connects you to a wider community of respect and gratitude that transcends borders.

To find details about this year’s service or donate to the Poppy Appeal in Northern Cyprus, visit the Royal British Legion Kyrenia Branch page.