In Azerbaijan, tea is a welcome part of almost every gathering. It is served to guests at home, shared with friends over long conversations and enjoyed with jam, lemon or traditional sweets. A glass of freshly brewed tea is a simple gesture of hospitality, but one that carries a great deal of meaning.
This tradition takes centre stage at the Tea Festival on Baku Boulevard, running from October 12 to 18. Held in Seaside National Park near the Azerbaijan State Puppet Theatre, the festival brings together local tea producers, regional sweets and tea traditions from Azerbaijan and other countries. The festival celebrates Azerbaijan's tea culture and gives local producers a chance to introduce their products to visitors.
Tea's place in Azerbaijani hospitality is also recognised internationally. In 2022, the tea culture shared by Azerbaijan and Turkiye was added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The festival grounds feature a tea garden and cosy seating areas surrounded by greenery, where visitors can sit down for a cup and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
The setting reflects the familiar warmth of an Azerbaijani tea table, where guests are encouraged to take their time. One of the festival's main attractions is a six-metre-tall model of the armudu glass, the pear-shaped glass traditionally used to serve Azerbaijani tea. Created by employees of the Seaside Boulevard Administration, the installation stands out among the festival displays.
Its evening illumination makes it particularly eye-catching after sunset. Visitors can sample teas from Azerbaijan's leading producers and browse a selection of traditional tea accessories, samovars and decorative items. Herbal teas from Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur bring regional flavours to the event, while displays devoted to Uzbekistan and China introduce visitors to tea customs from abroad.
Sweet treats are an essential part of the experience. A glass of strong black tea goes well with syrupy baklava, delicate pastries and fruit jam. The tempting spread recalls the generous tables found in Azerbaijani homes, where tea is rarely served without something to accompany it.
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