Laughter is a universal language that transcends barriers, and what better way to experience the joy of comedy than by attending one of America's vibrant comedy festivals? From coast to coast, these festivals bring together top comedians, emerging talent, and comedy enthusiasts for days of laughter-filled entertainment. Embarking on a road trip to attend these festivals not only promises unforgettable comedic experiences but also the opportunity to explore new cities and cultures along the way. Here are 10 North American comedy festivals that are certainly worth hitting the road for.
1. Just for Laughs (Montreal, Quebec)
Just for Laughs, founded in 1983 in Montreal, Quebec, has grown into one of the largest and most prestigious comedy festivals in the world. Each year, this festival attracts top comedians from around the globe, along with industry professionals and comedy fans eager to experience the best in stand-up, sketch, and improv comedy. With multiple venues hosting performances throughout the city, Just for Laughs offers a diverse lineup that appeals to comedy lovers of all tastes and backgrounds.
2. SXSW Comedy (Austin, Texas)
South by Southwest (SXSW) is renowned for its eclectic mix of music, film, and interactive media, but it also boasts an impressive comedy lineup as part of SXSW Comedy. Held annually in Austin, Texas, this festival features a blend of stand-up showcases, live podcast recordings, comedy film premieres, and panel discussions exploring the intersection of comedy and culture. With its laid-back atmosphere and diverse programming, SXSW Comedy offers a unique opportunity to experience the best in comedy while soaking up the vibrant energy of Austin.
3. Moontower Comedy Festival (Austin, Texas)
Another comedy gem in Austin, is the Moontower Comedy Festival, which has been delighting audiences since its inception in 2012. This festival takes over multiple venues across the city, including theaters, clubs, and outdoor stages, to showcase a mix of established comedians and up-and-coming talent. From stand-up showcases to themed shows and podcast recordings, Moontower offers something for every comedy enthusiast, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a laughter-filled getaway.
4. The New York Comedy Festival (New York City, New York)
As the entertainment capital of the world, New York City is home to the New York Comedy Festival, an annual event that showcases some of the biggest names in comedy at iconic venues across the city. From Madison Square Garden to intimate comedy clubs in Greenwich Village, the festival offers a diverse range of shows catering to every comedic taste. In addition to stand-up performances, the New York Comedy Festival features panel discussions, live podcast recordings, and showcases highlighting emerging talent from the city's vibrant comedy scene.
5. Bridgetown Comedy Festival (Portland, Oregon)
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, the Bridgetown Comedy Festival has been a staple of the Portland comedy scene since 2008. This festival prides itself on showcasing diverse voices and fostering a supportive environment for both performers and fans. With performances taking place in venues throughout Portland's arts district, Bridgetown features a mix of stand-up, sketch, and improv comedy, making it a must-visit destination for comedy lovers seeking something off the beaten path.
6. The Comedy Exposition (Chicago, Illinois)
Chicago has long been a breeding ground for comedic talent, and The Comedy Exposition celebrates the city's rich comedic heritage while showcasing the best in contemporary comedy. Founded in 2014, this festival features a mix of stand-up, sketch, and improv performances at venues across Chicago. With its emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, The Comedy Exposition offers a welcoming environment for comedians and fans alike, making it a standout event on the comedy festival circuit.
7. San Francisco Sketchfest (San Francisco, California)
San Francisco Sketchfest is a celebration of sketch comedy, featuring performances from some of the genre's most innovative and beloved performers. Founded in 2001, this annual festival takes over venues across San Francisco, offering a jam-packed schedule of live comedy shows, film screenings, and panel discussions. With its diverse lineup and laid-back vibe, San Francisco Sketchfest offers a unique opportunity to experience the best in sketch comedy in one of America's most iconic cities.
8. Chicago Comedy Film Festival (Chicago, Illinois)
For comedy fans who also love film, the Chicago Comedy Film Festival is a must-visit event. Founded in 2011, this festival showcases a diverse selection of comedic films from around the world, including features, shorts, and web series. In addition to film screenings, the festival features panel discussions, filmmaker Q&A sessions, and networking events, providing a platform for comedy filmmakers to connect with industry professionals and audiences alike.
9. Orlando Comedy Festival (Orlando, Florida)
While Orlando is perhaps best known for its theme parks and tourist attractions, it's also home to the Orlando Comedy Festival, an annual event that brings together comedians from across the country for a weekend of laughter and fun. Featuring stand-up performances, sketch comedy, improv shows, and more, the festival offers something for everyone, whether you're a die-hard comedy fan or just looking for a good time.
10. SF Sketchfest Presents: The Audible Comedy Stage (San Francisco, California)
SF Sketchfest, in partnership with Audible, presents The Audible Comedy Stage, a showcase of some of the best comedic talent from around the country. Held as part of SF Sketchfest, this series of live performances features stand-up, storytelling, and other forms of comedy, recorded for later release on Audible's streaming platform. With its stellar lineup and intimate venue, The Audible Comedy Stage offers a unique opportunity to experience top-notch comedy in a more intimate setting.
From the historic streets of Montreal to the vibrant comedy scene of Portland, Oregon, these 10 North American comedy festivals offer a diverse array of comedic experiences that are certainly worth hitting the road for. North America isn’t the only place to see top-notch comedians live on stage. There are venues around the world such as the iconic Comedy Carnival, a comedy club in London, that offer up incredible nights out.
Whether you're a fan of stand-up, sketch, improv, or comedic film, there's something for everyone at these festivals, which showcase the best in comedic talent from across the country and around the world. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to embark on a laughter-filled road trip to one of these must-visit comedy festivals.
