In Azerbaijan, traditional events and cultures associated with climate changes in each of the four seasons are deeply rooted, and a way of life closely aligned with the rhythms of nature remains vibrant. Below, I have summarized the characteristics of the climate and main seasonal events for spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: In March, 0 to 10°C in the inland areas and 5 to 15°C in coastal areas. Gradually increasing after April, around 15 to 25°C in May.
- Precipitation: Spring rains occur in March to April, and there is a lot of snowmelt in mountainous areas.
- Characteristics: Wildflowers bloom, and the greening of the earth progresses, marking the season of fresh greenery.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| March |
Novruz |
An ancient Persian festival celebrating the vernal equinox. Symbolic festivities of new buds and water are held. |
| April |
Baku Spring Festival |
An outdoor event themed around flowers and greenery. Held in parks taking advantage of warm days. |
| May |
Khidirlez |
A traditional fertility prayer festival. Outdoor water rituals and cleaning activities are conducted. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Many days over 30°C in inland areas, and 25 to 35°C in coastal areas. Nights become slightly cooler.
- Precipitation: Little rainfall and dry. Thunderstorms occasionally occur.
- Characteristics: Swimming along the Caspian Sea and summer retreats to mountainous regions are popular.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| June |
Start of Caspian Beach Season |
Swimming and resort activities become in full swing. Marine sports take advantage of sunny weather. |
| July |
Sheki Carpet Festival |
Celebrating traditional crafts in mountainous Sheki. Outdoor exhibitions are possible in the cool highlands. |
| August |
Ganja Pilaf Festival |
Held in the evening when the heat subsides. A food culture event to enjoy local cuisine. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: September still retains some summer, but by October to November, it becomes a pleasant weather around 15 to 20°C.
- Precipitation: A slight rain in September, and the dryness increases after October.
- Characteristics: Autumn foliage can be seen in mountainous areas, and the air is clear, making it suitable for travel.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| September |
Nagoradlen Wine Harvest Festival |
A celebration of grape harvesting in mountainous wine regions. Comfortable outdoor feasting in cool weather. |
| October |
Goychay Pomegranate Festival |
A food and cultural festival timed with pomegranate harvesting. Bustling outdoor markets in mild weather. |
| November |
Baku International Documentary Film Festival |
Film screenings are mainly indoors, but the opening night is celebrated in the autumn breeze. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: -5 to 5°C in inland areas, and 5 to 10°C in coastal areas. Snow below -10°C in mountainous regions.
- Precipitation: Light rain in coastal areas, and snow in mountainous areas. Ski season becomes active in places like Shahdag.
- Characteristics: The atmosphere stabilizes, with many sunny days.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| December |
Start of Shahdag Ski Resort |
Good snow quality and winter sports become prominent. Staying in the mountainous areas is appealing. |
| December |
World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day |
Cultural gatherings and concerts are held as a winter holiday. Mainly indoors, but the clear air makes the city lively. |
| January |
New Year Celebrations (Lunar and Gregorian) |
Fireworks and illuminations can be enjoyed in households and public squares amidst winter's chill. |
| February |
Fire Festival "Chakiri" |
A purification ritual using fire. The warmth of fire is symbolically utilized in the cold season. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Main Event Examples |
| Spring |
Signs of green, spring rain, warming trends |
Novruz, Khidirlez |
| Summer |
High temperatures, dryness, maritime influences |
Caspian Beach, Sheki Carpet Festival |
| Autumn |
Cool breezes, dryness, harvest period |
Wine Harvest Festival, Pomegranate Festival |
| Winter |
Cool, snowy, stable sunny weather |
Shahdag Ski, World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day |
Supplement
- A mix of continental climate and the maritime climate of the Caspian Sea creates diverse climatic characteristics in different regions.
- Numerous festivals align with solar and natural cycles, such as the vernal equinox, harvest, and winter solstice.
- The climatic differences between mountainous regions and coastal areas support the diversity of cultural events.
As noted, in Azerbaijan, changes in climate are closely intertwined with cultural events and traditions. Enjoying the festivals and customs in various places takes into account the weather conditions of each season.
Patchy rain possible