The New York Comedy Festival is the largest comedy festival in the United States, bringing out the best of the comedy world since 2004.
This year’s festival runs from November 7th to the 16th, 2025, and takes place at venues all around the city, from local comedy clubs like Q.E.D. in Astoria to historic venues like the Kings Theatre and Town Hall.
The New York Comedy Festival was started in 2004 by Caroline Hirsch, owner of the now-closed Caroline’s on Broadway, and has not only spotlighted well-known comedians but also provided a forum for up-and-comers.
For instance, winners of the festival’s annual Funniest Stand-Up Competition have included Michael Che, who won the year before beginning his run on Saturday Night Live.
Among those performing this year are stars like:
— Alex Edelman
— Hannibal Burris
— Margaret Cho
— Pete Holmes
And around 200 others, including many local talent from regularly scheduled comedy shows in New York City. And yes! There will be a reunion of the cult TV show Strangers with Candy featuring Stephen Colbert and Amy Sedaris.
As well as a musical about famous New York comedian Jackie Mason, starring his New York comedian daughter Sheba Mason.
Read all about the festival and all the other exciting events and world-class institutions commemorating the five boroughs’ legacy of groundbreaking achievements, and find ways to celebrate the city that’s always making history at Founded by NYC.
And for more information about New York City and the history of stand-up comedy, check out our show from a few years ago The New York Comedy Scene.
