Best Worldwide Comedy Festivals

Even the most serious individuals like to have a good belly laugh at some point, and these comedy festivals are the perfect place to do so.

From global cities to smaller towns, the geographical locations of these festivals are as diverse as the comedy they offer. If you’re looking to take in some good live comedy, take a peek at this list.

First off is Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival, which takes place in the unlikely environs of Leicester, England. An otherwise nondescript town, Leicester has sprung to life every February since 1994 for a comedy festival that boasts hundreds of live acts. Some household names are regularly found on the bill, while the festival is also well-known for giving new acts a chance.

Comedy is also found on the other side of the globe, in Melbourne, Australia. Every March to late April, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival comes to town, offering performances from a huge number of Australian performers. There is also a strong British and Irish contingent.

Over in Monteal, the Just For Laughs International Comedy Festival is regularly cited as one of the most important festivals in the comedy world. Big names like Seth Rogan and Chevy Chase have featured on the bill in years past, and there is no shortage of quality newcomers to keep you amused.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe has become a household name in the performing arts scene in general. and comedy is no different. Russell Brand and Phil Nichol have performed sell-out shows in previous years, and the cachet of the festival brings in the biggest names in global comedy.

The Magners International Comedy Festival in Singapore is an intimate festival that takes place in a number of smaller venues. The format is inspired by the fringe, and there are lots of different comedy styles that will slake the most diverse comedic thirst.
Whichever point of the globe you find yourself on, you can be sure to find a good comedy festival relatively nearby. Of course this list focuses on English-speaking festivals, but there are plenty of options for those that can be funny in other languages too.