Monuments & Moments: remembering the Great War in Flanders Fields

The Menin Gate is just one of many memorials in Flanders Fields. Together, these monuments tell the story of the First World War and commemorate missing soldiers, battles, regiments, and stories of courage and resilience. Notable examples include the memorial wall at Tyne Cot Cemetery in Zonnebeke and the Brooding Soldier Memorial in Langemark. In total, visitors can discover around 500 memorials throughout the region.  

Many of these memorials are linked to commemorative ceremonies. The best known is the Last Post, played every evening by buglers beneath the Menin Gate, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary on 2 July 2028. Other memorials have their own traditions, such as the Dawn Service held on 25 April at the Memorial on Buttes in New British Cemetery. Australian and New Zealand solider are remembered there each year.

Interactive exhibition | Royal Hall, In Flanders Fields Museum, Ypres | 19 June 2027 – 2 July 2028

In Diksmuide, First World War memorials tell a story unlike anywhere else. They have been the subject of such controversy, giving rise to a cultural struggle between Flemish pacifism, embodied in the slogan ‘No More War’, and the Belgian narrative of ‘Peace through victory’. This ‘battle of the monuments’ has resulted in a unique and remarkable mix of memorials in Diksmuide. During Memorable Yser Front, the city of Diksmuide, the Trench of Death and the Yser Tower join forces to present a three-part exhibition programme, complemented by immersive experiences, events, cycling and walking routes, and boat tours. 

Exhibition, events, cycling, walking, boat tours | City of Diksmuide, IJzerdijk, Yser Tower and Trench of Death | End of June 2027 – 11 November 2028 

In July 2027, the iconic Menin Gate will mark a major milestone as one of the most recognisable First World War memorials celebrates its 100th anniversary on 24 July.  Following an extensive restoration programme, the monument is ready to welcome visitors from all over the world and continue its role as a place of remembrance. To mark the occasion, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission will host a wide-ranging programme of exhibitions, activities and special events, during the 100 days before and after the anniversary. All highlighting the history, significance and lasting legacy of the Menin Gate.  

Ceremony | Menin Gate Ypres | 23-24 July 2027 

In the days leading up to the centenary weekend, the 54,896 names engraves on the Menin Gate will be read aloud by volunteers in a moving tribute to the missing. Schools from Ieper, across Flanders and around the world will be invited to take part, ensuring that younger generations play a central role in this act of remembrance. The final names will be read by attending dignitaries shorty before or during the centenary Last Post ceremony on Sunday, 2 July 2028. 

Last Post Ceremony | Menin Gate Ypres | 25 June 2028 – 2 July 2028 

Join the centenary celebrations of the Last Post Ceremony, a tradition that has honoured the fallen beneath the Menin Gate every evening since 1928. Throughout the centenary weekend, Ypres will host a rich programme of commemorative events, from a tribute to the founder and a city-wide procession on 1 July beneath the Menin Gate. Highlights include a Mass in St Martin’s Cathedral, an academic session, a special centenary Last Post ceremony and the unveiling of a permanent sculpture.

Against the majestic backdrop of the Cloth Hall and Belfry, the Tattoo will bring its world-renowned spectacle of pipes, drums and military precision to the heart of Ypres. In a city synonymous with sacrifice and resilience, this unforgettable performance will blend the pageantry of the Tattoo with the spirit of the Last Post, creating a powerful tribute to remembrance and reflection.

International Tattoo | Market Ypres | 30 June - 1 July 2028