Public Holidays in Azerbaijan 2025: Dates & Closures
A calendar of public holidays in Azerbaijan. Find out when banks and museums close for Novruz, Ramadan, and Independence Day.
Public Holidays in Azerbaijan 2025: Dates & Closures
Azerbaijanis love a good holiday. During major festivals, the city comes alive, but banks and some businesses may close. Plan accordingly!
Major Holidays (Non-Working Days) 🔴
| Date | Holiday | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 1-2 | New Year's Day | Major celebration. |
| Jan 20 | Black January | Day of mourning. Solemn. |
| Mar 8 | Women's Day | Flowers everywhere. |
| Mar 20-24 | Novruz Bayram | Biggest Holiday. 5-7 days off. |
| May 9 | Victory Day (WWII) | Parades. |
| May 28 | Independence Day | National pride. |
| Jun 15 | National Salvation Day | Official holiday. |
| Jun 26 | Armed Forces Day | Military parades. |
| Nov 8 | Victory Day (Karabakh) | Huge celebrations/fireworks. |
| Nov 9 | Flag Day | Official holiday. |
| Dec 31 | Solidarity Day | New Year's Eve start. |
Religious Holidays (Dates Change Yearly) 🌙
- Ramadan Holiday (Ramazan Bayramı): 2 days off (End of fasting).
- Sacrifice Holiday (Qurban Bayramı): 2 days off.
What Closes? 🚪
- Banks: CLOSED on all red days above.
- Government Offices: CLOSED (ASAN Service, Migration).
- Museums: Usually OPEN (except maybe Jan 1st). Check individual schedules.
- Shops & Malls: OPEN (and busy!).
- Restaurants: OPEN.
- Public Transport: Runs on holiday schedule (often extended hours on New Year/Novruz).
Best Holidays to Visit 🎉
- Novruz (March): The absolute best time. The city is decorated, there are street fairs, bonfires, and free concerts.
- Victory Day (Nov 8): Expect spectacular fireworks and laser shows on the Flame Towers.
- New Year (Dec 31): Baku loves New Year's. The Boulevard is packed.
Worst Holidays to Visit ⚠️
- Jan 20 (Black January): A sad day commemorating victims of the 1990 Soviet crackdown. No music, no entertainment. Respect the mood.
Summary
- Don't worry about food/shopping: Everything stays open.
- Change money beforehand: Banks will be closed.
- Book early: Hotels fill up during Novruz and New Year.