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

The application period for the BIAF 2025 volunteer program is now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied!

We will contact the selected participants by email soon.

Being a volunteer means becoming part of a big team that creates a unique event. Volunteering means:

New friends and connections from all over the world;
Priceless teamwork experience;
The chance to take part in organizing a cultural event from the inside;
A certificate and gratitude from the organizers

We are searching for active, responsible, and energetic 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);
Readiness to work with a flexible schedule during the festival;
Willingness to help and learn new skills.