Last revised June 2026 by Sandra Steiger, TutorsPlus Education Advisor

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 2026–2027 school holidays, including public holidays, term dates, and international school calendars.

Introduction

The 2026–2027 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 2026–2027

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 (2026–2027)

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 2026-2027:

Victory Day over Fascism: 9 May 2026
Gurban Bayram Holiday (Feast of the Sacrifice)*: 27–28 May 2026; 16–17 May 2027
Republic Day (Independence Day): 28 May 2026; 28 May 2027
National Salvation Day of the Azerbaijani People: 15 June 2026; 15 June 2027
Armed Forces Day: 26 June 2026; 26 June 2027
Independence Day: 18 October 2026
Victory Day and State Flag Day: 8–9 November 2026; 8–9 November 2027
Solidarity Day and New Year’s Eve: 31 December 2026; 31 December 2027
New Year’s Day: 1–2 January 2027
Martyr’s Day: 20 January 2027
Novruz (Spring Holiday): 20–24 March 2027

*Dates for Gurban Bayram are subject to official confirmation and may vary slightly based on lunar calendar observations.

This overview of public holidays for 2026 and 2027 can help you plan your celebrations, travel and school breaks well ahead of time.

How Public Holidays Affect School Closures

Understanding which public holidays affect school schedules can help families plan ahead and avoid last-minute disruptions. Most schools in Baku, including public, private, and international institutions, observe nationally recognised public holidays. When a holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute day off is often granted, and longer breaks may be scheduled around major celebrations such as Novruz.

Many international schools also observe additional holidays, including Christmas and other occasions linked to their educational curriculum or cultural traditions. Holidays based on the Islamic lunar calendar, such as Ramazan Bayram and Gurban Bayram, vary from year to year, so their exact dates are confirmed closer to the time. For the most accurate information, families should always refer to their school’s official academic calendar.

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:

Late December to Early January: The New Year holiday period provides one of the longest school breaks of the academic year, making it an ideal time for family holidays and extended travel.
March: The Novruz celebrations create a substantial spring break, offering families a popular opportunity for vacations and time together.
May: With several public holidays occurring within a short period, families can often enjoy extended weekends or plan short trips with minimal disruption to school schedules.

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 (2026–2027)

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 2026 to December 2026
Spring Term: Early January to mid-March 2027
Summer Term: Late March to mid-June 2027

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 (2026–2027)

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 (2026–2027)

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)

Victory Day Holiday: 9 May 2026; 9 May 2027
Gurban Bayram and Republic Day (TBC): 17–18 May 2026; 16–18 May 2027
Day of National Salvation: 15 June 2026; 15 June 2027
Summer Break: 18 June to 16 August 2026; begins 19 June 2027
Mid-Term Holiday: 12–18 October 2026
Public Holiday: 9–10 November 2026
Winter Holiday: 18 December 2026 to 13 January 2027
National Day of Mourning: 20 January 2027
International Women’s Day Holiday: 8 March 2027
Ramazan Bayram (TBC): 9–10 March 2027
Novruz Bayram: 20–24 March 2027

European Azerbaijan School (EAS)

Autumn Break: 26 to 30 October 2026
Public Holiday: 9 to 10 November 2026
Winter Holiday: 21 December 2026 to 4 January 2027
National Day of Mourning: 20 January 2027
Holiday: 8 March 2027
Ramazan Bayram (TBC): 10 to 11 March 2027
Novruz Bayram: 22 to 26 March 2027
Victory Day Holiday: 9 May 2027
Gurban Bayram: 17 to 18 May 2027
Summer Break: Summer break dates to be confirmed by the school.

QSI Baku International School

Victory Day Holiday: 11 May 2026
Gurban Bayram: 27 to 29 May 2026
Day of National Salvation: 15 June 2026
Summer Break: Begins 19 June 2026

For the latest updates and any changes to the calendar, families should refer to the school’s official website.

The British School in Baku (BSB)

Half-term Holiday – 4 to 8 May 2026
Summer Break – Starts 11 June 2026

For the latest updates and any changes to the calendar, families should refer to the school’s official website.

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 2026–2027 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 2026–2027 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 2026–2027