Keeping track of school breaks and public holidays can be challenging for busy parents and students. This guide gathers everything you need in one convenient place. Whether you’re arranging family vacations, planning holiday programmes, or mapping out study schedules, you’ll find a complete overview of Baku’s 2025–2026 school holidays, including public holidays, term dates, and international school calendars.

Introduction

The 2025–2026 school holidays in Baku blend Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage with the city’s diverse and modern educational landscape. From Nowruz to Victory Day and National Salvation Day, Baku’s academic calendar follows a dynamic rhythm of learning, rest and celebration.

This guide outlines everything you need to know, from official public holidays to the term dates of both local and international schools, along with ideas to help families make the most of every break.

Overview of School Holidays in Baku in 2025–2026

The school year in Baku runs from September to June and is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring and Summer. Most schools have scheduled breaks for New Year, Nowruz and the major May holidays such as Victory Day and Republic Day. International schools may include additional breaks based on their global academic calendars.

Parents should be aware that exact dates can vary slightly between schools, so planning around public holidays and term breaks is essential.

List of Public Holidays in Baku (2025–2026)

Public holidays in Azerbaijan are announced each year by the national government. These dates are observed across the country and generally apply to all public, private and international schools.

Below are the public holidays in Baku for 2025:

Solidarity Day and New Year’s Eve: December 31, 2025

And here are the major holidays for 2026:

New Year’s Day: January 1-2, 2026
Martyrs’ Day: January 20, 2026
Novruz (Spring Holiday): March 22-24, 2026
Victory Day: May 9 & 11, 2026
Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha): May 27, 2026
Republic Day: May 28, 2026
National Salvation Day: June 15, 2026
Armed Forces Day: June 26, 2026
Independence Day: October 18, 2026
Victory and Flag Days: November 8-9 2026
Solidarity Day and New Year’s Eve: December 31, 2026

This overview of public holidays for 2025 and 2026 can help you plan your celebrations, travel and school breaks well ahead of time.

How Public Holidays Affect School Closures

Most public holidays in Baku are recognised by every school. When a holiday falls on a weekend, the following Monday is often given as an additional day off. This is why closures were extended to November 10-11, 2025 after Victory Day and Flag Day. Religious holidays such as Ramadan Bayram and Gurban Bayram shift each year because they follow the lunar calendar.

Public and private schools usually follow the same national holiday schedule, including the winter break. However, private and international schools may have slight differences, particularly if they observe additional holidays such as the Christmas break. For this reason, it is always best to check each school’s official calendar for the most accurate dates.

Long Weekends and Leave Planning Tips

Several public holidays in Baku coincide with weekends or school breaks, creating ideal opportunities for short trips or relaxing family staycations. Here are some key periods to consider:

New Year and Solidarity Day: December 31, 2025 to January 3, 2026
Nowruz Holiday: March 20-28, 2026, one of the longest breaks of the year
Eid al-Adha and Republic Day: May 25-29, 2026, perfect for an extended getaway

Booking early for these popular dates can help secure better rates and wider options for family activities, travel plans or accommodation.

Term Breaks in Baku Schools (2025–2026)

Term breaks in Baku schools give students important time to rest, recharge and focus on personal learning or extracurricular interests. Although the overall structure of breaks is similar across the city, the exact dates can differ slightly between public, private and international schools.

Public Schools Term Dates

Public schools in Azerbaijan follow an academic calendar determined by the Ministry of Education. The school year is divided into three main terms:

Autumn Term: September 15, 2025 to December 27, 2025
Spring Term: Early January to mid-March 2026
Summer Term: Late March to mid-June 2026

These dates may vary slightly from one school to another, but most public institutions follow this general structure. There are also short mid-term breaks in November and May, which usually coincide with national public holidays.

Private and International Schools Term Dates

Private and international schools follow a similar three-term format, but with their own variations. Many of these schools schedule longer winter and spring breaks. Some institutions also offer summer school sessions designed to provide additional enrichment opportunities.

School Holidays in Public and Private Schools (2025–2026)

Although all schools in Baku observe the same national holidays, their academic calendars can differ. Public schools typically follow the official schedule set by the Ministry of Education. Private and international schools, on the other hand, have more flexibility and may include additional breaks or extend holiday periods during the winter and spring terms to align with international curricula.

International School Holidays in Baku (2025–2026)

International schools in Baku generally follow the academic calendar of their home education system while adapting it to include local public holidays. The following outlines the holiday schedules of some of the city’s most prominent international schools.

The International School of Azerbaijan (TISA)

Winter Holiday: December 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026
National Day of Mourning: January 20, 2026
Holiday: March 9, 2026
Ramazan Bayram and Novruz Bayram: March 19-24, 2026
Victory Day Holiday: May 9, 2026
Gurban Bayram and Republic Day: May 26-28, 2026
Day of National Salvation: June 15, 2026
Summer Break: Begins June 20, 2026

European Azerbaijan School (EAS)

Winter Holiday: December 22, 2025 to January 4, 2026
National Day of Mourning: January 20, 2026
Holiday: March 9, 2026
Ramazan Bayram and Novruz Bayram: March 18-27, 2026
Victory Day Holiday: May 9, 2026
Gurban Bayram: May 28-29, 2026
Day of National Salvation: June 15, 2026
Summer Break: Begins June 13, 2026

QSI Baku International School

Winter Holiday: December 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026
National Day of Mourning: January 20, 2026
Spring Break: March 20-30, 2026
Victory Day Holiday: May 11, 2026
Gurban Bayram: May 27-29, 2026
Day of National Salvation: June 15, 2026
Summer Break: Begins June 19, 2026

The British School in Baku (BSB)

Winter Holiday: December 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026
School Holiday: March 18-19, 2026
Half-term Holiday: May 4-8, 2026
Summer Break: Begins June 11, 2026

These international schools organise their calendars to include both local and global holidays, making it easier for expatriate families to plan travel and manage academic commitments.

School Holiday Activities in Baku

Baku offers a wide range of opportunities for students to stay active, creative, and curious during school holidays. Here are some great options to explore:

Educational Camps and Workshops

During school breaks, many parents look for programs that combine learning and fun. Baku hosts camps and workshops that develop skills, spark curiosity, and nurture creativity in children.

Forest School Azerbaijan: Designed for nature-loving children aged 8–14, these outdoor adventure camps include hiking, survival skills, and team-building activities in a natural setting.

Engineering for Kids: Hands-on STEM and robotics workshops encourage problem-solving, creativity, and innovation through fun, practical experiments.

Kilimchi Art Studio: Traditional art workshops teach children carpet weaving, pottery, and kelagayi-making, offering an engaging way to explore Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage.

Family-Friendly Events and Local Attractions

School holidays are a perfect time for families to enjoy Baku’s mix of entertainment, culture, and outdoor activities, with attractions suitable for children and teens.

Kinderland & Hello Park: Immersive indoor playgrounds featuring interactive games, creative workshops, and themed adventure zones for children of all ages.
Baku Eye & Highland Park: Ideal for sightseeing, these iconic locations provide sweeping views of the Caspian Sea and city skyline, perfect for family photos and leisurely afternoons.
Shahdag Mountain Resort: A popular winter destination offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow play for families seeking adventure and fresh mountain air.

Volunteer and Internship Opportunities for Teens

Older students can use longer school breaks to gain experience through volunteering or internships. Many schools partner with youth programs or NGOs to support environmental, educational, or cultural projects.

Boost Academic Performance During the Holidays with TutorsPlus

For students preparing for IGCSE, IB, or A-Levels, TutorsPlus offers one-on-one and online tutoring. Expert tutors help strengthen exam technique and address learning gaps during holidays. Whether in Maths, English, or Science, personalised tutoring provides targeted support that can significantly improve a student’s progress.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

How do holidays differ between primary and secondary schools in Baku?

Yes. While public holidays are the same for all students, term breaks can differ slightly. International and private schools often stagger assessments and holiday periods, particularly between primary and secondary levels.

Are public and private schools on the same term dates?

Yes. Public schools follow the national academic calendar, whereas private and international schools adjust their schedules to align with global education systems such as British, IB, or American programs.

What activities are recommended for students during school holidays in Baku?

Students can enjoy a variety of activities during school holidays, including outdoor adventure camps, creative art workshops, museum visits, and STEM-focused learning programs. Many families also take short trips to destinations such as Shahdag, Gabala, or along the Caspian coast for relaxation and recreation.

Final Thoughts

The 2025–2026 school holidays in Baku offer a well-rounded combination of breaks for public, private, and international schools, along with numerous opportunities for both learning and family activities. From cultural celebrations such as Nowruz to educational camps and outdoor adventures, there is something to engage every student. This comprehensive guide to Baku school holidays 2025–2026 helps families plan ahead, make the most of each term break, and enjoy everything the city has to offer throughout the year.

Plan Ahead: Baku School Holidays 2025–2026