Public Holidays in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan stands as the only Muslim-majority nation in the South Caucasus, and its rich cultural landscape is distinct from its Christian neighbors, Georgia and Armenia. This cultural divergence is prominently reflected in the country’s festivals and public holidays. While Azerbaijanis celebrate significant Islamic holidays such as Ramadan and Novruz, traditional Christian festivities like Christmas and Easter are not observed. Azerbaijani celebrations are known for their vibrancy, color, and joy, yet they also encompass moments of reflection that honor the nation’s tumultuous history, particularly the scars left by the events of the 20th century.

Festivals are a cornerstone of Azerbaijani life, and the people embrace every opportunity to celebrate. When a holiday coincides with a weekend, the following workday is often declared a national holiday, allowing for extended festivities. The warm hospitality of Azerbaijanis means that visitors are frequently welcomed into these celebrations. If you’re planning a visit, timing your trip to coincide with one of these holidays can provide a unique and enriching experience. Below is a comprehensive list of public and school holidays in Azerbaijan, each offering a glimpse into the country’s vibrant culture.

New Year’s Day is one of the most cherished holidays in Azerbaijan, celebrated with great enthusiasm among families and friends. In the weeks leading up to the New Year, homes are adorned with an evergreen tree, a tradition borrowed from Russian customs. The festivities kick off on the evening of December 31 with a lavish feast, where children eagerly await gifts from Shakhta Baba (Father Frost) and Karkyz (Snow Maiden). As midnight approaches, the sky lights up with spectacular fireworks, with the most impressive displays taking place along Baku Boulevard. Read more >>>

Martyrs’ Day is a poignant observance honoring the victims of the tragic events known as “Black January.” This day commemorates the Soviet military’s brutal crackdown on civil protests in Baku in 1990, resulting in the loss of nearly 170 civilian lives. Following Azerbaijan’s independence from the Soviet Union, January 20 was declared a public holiday, allowing the nation to reflect on its past and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. Read more >>>

Novruz, heralding the arrival of spring and the Lunar New Year, is the most significant holiday in Azerbaijan. The celebrations span several weeks, with the four Tuesdays leading up to Novruz dedicated to the elements: earth, wind, fire, and water. The week of Novruz is filled with folk concerts, festivals, and traditional dishes, making it a vibrant time of year that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the nation. Read more >>>

Victory Day is a solemn yet celebratory occasion marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. With a significant portion of Azerbaijan’s population having fought in the war, this day serves as a tribute to both surviving veterans and those who lost their lives. The day is marked by memorial services, the laying of flowers at war monuments, and military parades, culminating in grand fireworks displays across the country. Read more >>>

Ramazan Bayram, or Eid al-Fitr, is a major Islamic holiday that signifies the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The celebration begins after sunset on the final day of Ramadan and lasts for two days. During this time, families gather for prayers at mosques, share festive meals, and exchange gifts, especially with children. It is also customary to donate to the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the celebrations. Read more >>>

Republic Day marks the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic on May 28, 1918, which was notable for being the first secular democratic state in the Islamic world. Despite its brief existence, the republic was pioneering, granting women the right to vote. Today, this day is celebrated with official ceremonies, including wreath-laying at the Republic Monument in Baku, alongside concerts and parades throughout the country. Read more >>>

National Salvation Day commemorates the return of Heydar Aliyev to power in 1993, a pivotal moment that helped stabilize the country and avert civil war. Celebrated as a state holiday since 1997, the day features military parades in Baku and gatherings among families and friends, reflecting on the importance of national unity and leadership in Azerbaijan’s history. The evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display, adding to the festive atmosphere of the day. Read more >>>

Armed Forces Day, celebrated on June 26, honors the establishment of the Azerbaijani military, which traces its roots back to the formation of the Detached Corps of Azerbaijan in 1918. This day is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of the armed forces and is marked by grand military parades in Baku, showcasing the strength and capabilities of the nation’s military. Spectacular aerial displays accompany the parades, making it a visually stunning event that draws large crowds. Read more >>>

Gurban Bayram, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is an important Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. This holiday typically spans three days, with two of those designated as public holidays in Azerbaijan. The celebration includes the ritual sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and those in need. This act of sharing reinforces community bonds and emphasizes the values of charity and compassion. Read more >>>

Independence Day, also referred to as State Sovereignty Day, is one of Azerbaijan’s most significant national holidays, celebrated annually on October 18. This day marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1991, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The day is observed with various events, including speeches by government officials, cultural performances, and public celebrations that instill a sense of national pride among Azerbaijanis. Read more >>>

National Flag Day honors the adoption of Azerbaijan’s tricolor flag on November 9, 1918. This flag symbolizes the identity and unity of the Azerbaijani people. The day is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, particularly at the National Flag Square in Baku, where citizens gather to pay homage to their national emblem. The square is home to one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, standing at an impressive 162 meters, serving as a proud reminder of the nation’s heritage. 

Constitution Day, observed on November 12, commemorates the adoption of Azerbaijan’s constitution in 1995, which laid the legal foundation for the newly independent republic. While it transitioned to a working holiday in 2006, Constitution Day remains a significant occasion, emphasizing the importance of governance, rule of law, and the ongoing development of Azerbaijan as a sovereign nation. Read more >>>

Solidarity Day, celebrated on December 31, marks the historical dismantling of the border fence between Soviet Azerbaijan and Iran in 1989, symbolizing the reunification of Azerbaijanis worldwide. This holiday serves as a reminder of cultural and political unity, celebrated through various cultural events and gatherings among the Azerbaijani diaspora, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. It is a time for Azerbaijanis to reflect on their heritage and the connections that bind them, regardless of geographical boundaries. Read more >>>

Celebrating one of the public holidays in Azerbaijan offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant culture and traditions. The warmth and hospitality of the Azerbaijani people make these celebrations even more memorable, creating lasting impressions and unforgettable experiences. Embrace the chance to witness these cultural expressions firsthand, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this fascinating nation and its people.