Baku’s F1 Nightlife Evolves: APEX AFTER DARK Takes to the Waterfront
For the first time since its inception in late 2023, FOMO Baku is breaking out of its traditional indoor confines. In a major shift for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, the venue is launching “APEX AFTER DARK OPEN AIR,” a three-night festival experience situated directly on the edge of the Caspian Sea. Running from September 24th through the 26th, this outdoor series promises to redefine the post-race atmosphere in Baku.
A New Venue for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix
The event is the result of a strategic collaboration between FOMO Baku, the Baku City Circuit, and the ticketing giant iTicket. Organizers have constructed a bespoke, 2,500-capacity venue along the iconic Baku Boulevard. This location is perfectly positioned to capture the high-octane energy of the F1 weekend, which remains one of the most distinct and challenging street circuits on the global calendar.
Notably, the 2026 race schedule features a historic change: the Grand Prix will conclude on a Saturday. This adjustment means the final night of the APEX AFTER DARK series will transition seamlessly from the podium celebrations to the dance floor, with the closing set beginning almost the moment the final car crosses the finish line.
The Headlining Talent
The programming for this open-air debut is curated to match the intensity of the racing, featuring a mix of global electronic heavyweights:
* Thursday, September 24th – ANOTR: The Amsterdam-based duo will open the festivities. Known for their signature sound-a fluid fusion of rolling house, disco, funk, and soul-the pair is expected to deliver an expansive set. Their performance is timed to coincide with the sunset, providing a scenic backdrop as the light dips below the Caspian horizon.
* Friday, September 25th – Jamie Jones: Bringing a taste of the Balearic Islands to the Caucasus, Jamie Jones will headline the second night. Fresh from his high-profile summer residencies in Ibiza, Jones is set to bring his world-renowned melodic house and techno expertise to the Baku waterfront.
* Saturday, September 26th – Mahmut Orhan: Rounding out the weekend, Mahmut Orhan will take the stage to close out the F1 festivities, ensuring the energy remains at its peak following the race.
As the F1 calendar continues to grow-with global viewership for the sport now regularly exceeding 70 million per race-the demand for premium, immersive entertainment experiences like APEX AFTER DARK has never been higher. By moving to an open-air format, FOMO Baku is positioning itself at the forefront of this trend, offering fans a unique way to celebrate the intersection of motorsport and electronic music.
