Top eventsfor this autumn
Planning a trip to Azerbaijan this autumn? Make your visit even more memorable with these exciting events. We’ve rounded up the season’s highlights to help you make the most of your time in the capital.
On September 13, Comic Con Baku 2026 brings fans of movies, TV series, gaming, cosplay, K-pop, comics and geek culture together under one roof. The programme features Q&A sessions, autograph opportunities, cosplay shows, gaming and themed zones, masterclasses, Artist Alley and special guests, including Game of Thrones and 1917 actor Dean-Charles Chapman.
On 20 September, supermodel and cultural icon Naomi Campbell will take to the decks at boolood for a special DJ set, bringing her passion for house, afro house, amapiano, reggae, R&B and dancehall to the Baku nightlife scene. Mosoo & Sentin will warm up the crowd ahead of her performance.
In late September, Baku shifts into high gear for the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. On 24 – 26 September, the city becomes a stage for world-class motorsport, with the circuit winding through the heart of the capital. Expect the thrill of high-speed racing against the backdrop of Baku’s historic streets and landmarks.
October begins with a week of international sporting action at the Baku World Senior Judo Championships 2026. On 4 – 11 October participants from around the world will compete in their respective age categories, all aiming for the title of world champion.
Once the sporting excitement winds down, it’s time to explore Baku through its flavours. GastroFest returns to Icherisheher, taking place in front of the Double Gates on 3 – 4 and 10 – 11 October. Local chefs, culinary experts and artisans will come together to offer visitors a taste of Azerbaijan through food, live music and a lively festival programme.
From 1–30 October 2026, Gabala will celebrate Harvest Season, a destination-wide gastronomy initiative bringing together more than 20 local restaurants, orchards, farmers, producers and the Gabala market.
Football fans have even more reasons to visit Baku this autumn as Sabah FC welcomes some of Europe’s biggest football clubs for the UEFA Champions League. On 13 October, the Azerbaijani side takes on Slavia Prague, followed by Borussia Dortmund on 20 October and FC Barcelona on 25 November. These highly anticipated matches promise exciting football, passionate crowds and a lively stadium atmosphere, giving visitors the chance to experience European football live in Baku.
On 17–18 October, the World Sumo Championship will take place at Baku Sports Palace for the first time in Azerbaijan and the region. Bringing together athletes from around 30 countries, the two-day event will feature junior and adult competitions in individual and team categories. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the traditions of Japanese sumo wrestling and watch international athletes compete on a traditional dohyo.
Art takes centre stage at the end of October with Baku International Arts Festival (BIAF 2026). Running from 28 October to 8 November, the festival will present more than 20 events spanning music, theatre and dance. The programme includes a performance by Akram Khan Company, a concert featuring violinist Maxim Vengerov and the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra, and William Kentridge’s multimedia project inspired by Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10.
The city’s creative energy continues with Fly to Baku Art Weekends, bringing exhibitions, talks, lectures and other art events to venues across Baku. Taking place from 30 October to 1 November, the programme offers a chance to explore the city’s contemporary art scene and discover its creative side.
Choose the events that catch your eye, mark them on your calendar and make them part of your Azerbaijan itinerary. This autumn, the city has plenty in store.
