Baku International Arts Festival 2026 | Baku International Arts Festival

About the Festival

The goal of the festival is to create a platform that promotes cultural exchange, unites diverse communities, and strengthens Baku’s position as an international cultural destination. The festival is held with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan.

The festival program features world-renowned stars of theatre, music, dance, and opera, unique collaborations, premieres, and ethnic projects. The festival unites classics and modernity, global masterpieces and the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, creating a space for traditions and innovation, a dialogue between East and West.

The festival’s events take place at the city’s finest venues, including the Heydar Aliyev Center, the Muslim Magomayev State Philharmonic Hall, the Azerbaijan National Drama Theatre, the Azerbaijan State Musical Theatre, and many others.

Venues

Muslim Magomayev State Philharmonic Hall

The oldest theatre in the country and one of Baku’s leading cultural stages. Its history dates back to 1873, when the first plays in the Azerbaijani language were performed here. The current building, constructed in 1919 in Neoclassical style, has become an important architectural landmark of the capital.

Today, the theatre continues national traditions while embracing both classical and contemporary works. Its stage hosts Azerbaijani playwrights as well as world classics. Azdarma is a cultural arena where new ideas are born and Azerbaijan’s theatrical school is shaped.

Azerbaijan State Academic Drama Theatre

The oldest theatre in the country and one of Baku’s leading cultural stages.Its history dates back to 1873, when the first plays in the Azerbaijani language were performed here. The current building, constructed in 1919 in Neoclassical style, has become an important architectural landmark of the capital.

Today, the theatre continues national traditions while embracing both classical and contemporary works. Its stage hosts Azerbaijani playwrights as well as world classics. Azdarma is a cultural arena where new ideas are born and Azerbaijan’s theatrical school is shaped.

Azerbaijan State Academic Musical Comedy Theatre

One of the country’s leading musical theatres and a key cultural stage in Baku. The theatre’s history began in 1910 with the premiere of Not That One, Then This One by U. Hajibeyov – the first Azerbaijani musical comedy. Since then, it has become the center of the genre’s development in Azerbaijan, combining music, vocals, drama, and dance.

The modern building, reopened after full reconstruction in 2012, meets all international standards. Today it stages musicals, premieres, concerts, and festivals attracting audiences from around the world.

Become a BIAF Volunteer

Become part of the BIAF team and experience the festival from the inside.

Volunteering at BIAF is an opportunity to work alongside an international team, meet artists and professionals from around the world, and gain hands-on experience behind the scenes of a major cultural festival.

As a BIAF volunteer, you will:

• Gain valuable experience working at an international arts festival

• Meet new people and build professional connections

• Discover how major cultural events come together from the inside

• Work alongside the BIAF team across different areas of the festival

• Receive a certificate of participation from BIAF

We are looking for active, responsible and enthusiastic people who are ready to become part of the festival.

Requirements:

• Age 18 and above

• Knowledge of Azerbaijani, Russian and English; additional languages are a plus

• Availability and flexibility during the festival period

• Responsibility, teamwork and good communication skills

• Willingness to learn, help and take initiative

Ready to join us?

Complete the application form and become part of the BIAF team.