Ten days. Five boroughs. Hundreds of comics. Thousands of belly laughs. The New York Comedy Festival 2025 transforms New York City into one giant stage where laughter takes over every corner. Expect A-list headliners rubbing elbows with breakout stars, podcast sensations, and the unpredictable magic of open-mic chaos that only this city can deliver.
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Running November 7–16, it’s a nonstop spree of jokes, improv, and stand-up brilliance. If you’ve been on the lookout for the best comedy shows in NYC in November, this festival is your ultimate playground. From razor-sharp satire to absurdist brilliance, every night offers a fresh reason to keep your schedule wide open.
Curious about what lies ahead? Let’s find out.
What Is the New York Comedy Festival?
Think of it as the ultimate city-wide comedy marathon. Since 2004, the New York Comedy Festival has brought together hundreds of comics across over 100 shows spanning all five boroughs.
The festival is produced by Carolines, the legendary comedy club that’s been shaping stand-up culture for decades. Every year, it transforms NYC into a sprawling playground of laughter, with venues ranging from iconic stages like The Beacon Theatre, Carnegie Hall, and Town Hall, to intimate spaces like Brooklyn Art Haus and The Tiny Cupboard where the energy feels raw, personal, and just a little dangerous.
Whether you’re planning your first festival experience or returning as a seasoned comedy connoisseur, the New York Comedy Festival is designed to keep you laughing morning, noon, and night.
It’s a citywide comedy takeover, and the schedule is your roadmap to chaos, fun, and a few “did that just happen?” moments. Check the full comedy week schedule in New York City to plan your adventure. If you’re visiting NYC for the first time, make sure you have a good grasp of the NYC essentials beforehand.
Headliners & Must-See Shows
The New York Comedy Festival 2025 brings star power, breakout talent, and thrilling moments. Whether you’re chasing gut-busting chaos or clever storytelling, these are the shows you mark on your calendar first.
Patti Harrison – The Town Hall, Friday, November 14
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Patti Harrison has a sharp, fearless voice that’s equal parts absurdist and poignant. Known for her quirky characters and signature blend of deadpan and chaos, she turns observational humor into an art form. Her Town Hall set promises big laughs, unexpected twists, and a sprinkle of surrealism that keeps audiences guessing.
Ismo: Woo Hoo! World Tour – Town Hall, Sunday, November 9
Finnish comedian Ismo is a true international treasure, known for his unique perspective as an outsider in America. His routine dissects the quirks and nonsensical aspects of the English language and American culture with a deadpan delivery and brilliant, slightly confused logic. It’s a masterclass in observational humor that’s universally funny and refreshingly smart.
Maddy Smith – New York Comedy Club, Upper West Side, Wednesday, November 12
MTV’s Wild ‘N Out alum Maddy Smith brings high-energy, rapid-fire improvisation to the stage. Expect audience interaction, witty comebacks, and a playful mix of storytelling and spontaneous chaos that only someone steeped in sketch comedy could deliver. Her sets are full-blown experiences that leave you replaying punchlines all night.
Nurse John: The Short Staffed Tour – Beacon Theatre, Friday, November 7
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Launching the festival with a bang, Nurse John’s tour is a masterclass in blending topical humor with theatrical flair. Expect over-the-top sketches, audience call-ins, and sharp commentary on life’s absurdities. It’s the perfect kickoff for anyone wanting to start their comedy week in New York City with a bang.
Alex Borstein is Thirsty – The Bell Hourse, Wednesday, November 12
The Emmy-winning star of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel brings a bawdy, cabaret-style comedy show that mixes stand-up, storytelling, and live music. Bold, unfiltered, and wildly funny, Alex Borstein proves she’s just as magnetic on stage as she is on screen.
Morgan Jay – The Goofy Guy Tour, Kings Theatre, Tuesday, November 11
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Morgan Jay brings his signature musical comedy and whimsical charm to the NYC stage with The Goofy Guy Tour. Expect a clever mix of catchy songs, playful storytelling, and laugh-out-loud observations that turn everyday life into pure comedy gold. His knack for blending humor with music makes each set feel like a sing-along full of punchlines, improvisation, and unexpected twists.
Whether you’re a die-hard comedy fan or just looking for something delightfully different, Morgan Jay’s performance at Kings Theatre promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Veronika Slowikowska – Gramercy Theatre, Sunday, November 9
Hailing from Canada, Veronika Slowikowska blends international flair with NYC sensibilities, delivering humor that’s both polished and quirky. Her ability to riff off audience energy and weave unexpected anecdotes into her set makes her a highlight for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on the festival lineup.
Yohay Sponder – “Self Loving Jew” at The Town Hall, Thursday, November 13
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Sponder’s signature style pairs smart, culturally nuanced storytelling with a warm, self-aware energy. His Self Loving Jew special dives into identity, family, and the quirks of modern life, all while keeping the laughs rolling. For those who love comedy that’s as thoughtful as it is hilarious, this is a can’t-miss performance.
Hannibal Buress & Friends – Isola Brooklyn, Sunday, November 16
Hannibal Buress, known for his work on Broad City and his sharp, observational wit, hosts his signature showcase at his own newly-opened venue, Isola Brooklyn. The “Friends” lineup is notoriously unpredictable, often featuring major surprise drops from elite talent. Expect a dense, unpredictable, and brilliantly subversive set that delivers maximum comedic value without even the slightest shred of fluff.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to Brooklyn, use a trusty Booklyn travel guide to get up to speed with the borough’s best eats, hidden comedy spots, local art corners, and more.
10th Annual Hot Guy Draft – Littlefield, Sunday, November 16
You do not want to miss this fan-favorite, interactive comedy event hosted by Kenice Mobley and James Hamilton. Part game, part roast, part immersive storytelling, this set is an experience as much as a show. Expect laughs, audience participation, and enough energy to cap off your ten-day comedy journey in jaw-dropping fashion.
Alex Edelman – Carnegie Hall, Saturday, November 15
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Alex Edelman combines sharp storytelling with a keen eye for the absurdities of modern life. Known from Peacock’s The Office spinoff, his live performance blends polished joke structure with spontaneous audience interactions, making for a set that’s both intelligent and uproariously funny.
Chris Redd – New York Comedy Club 4th Street, Sunday, November 9
Former SNL standout Chris Redd headlines with his signature mix of sharp character work and explosive energy. His sets move fast and hit harder, blending personal stories with pop-culture riffs. If you’re looking for pure stand-up adrenaline, this one’s unmissable.
Trevor Wallace – Beacon Theatre, Saturday, November 8
Known for his razor-sharp sketches and viral online persona, Trevor Wallace brings his internet-fueled humor to the stage at The Town Hall. His blend of frat-boy satire, observational chaos, and surprisingly smart punchlines makes for a show that’s as loud as it is clever. If you’ve ever screamed “bruh” unironically, this one’s for you.
Margaret Cho – Town Hall, Saturday, November 15
Festival favorite Margaret Cho brings her Choligarchy show to Town Hall with political edge, personal anecdotes, and a fearless stage presence. Cho’s blend of activism and comedy makes her set both hilarious and socially resonant, proving she’s a master at making audiences laugh while thinking critically about the world.
I Never Liked You: Matteo Lane & Nick Smith – Arlo Williamsburg Ballroom, Friday, November 14
This isn’t a typical stand-up show; it’s a live podcast taping that’s pure, unfiltered intellectual sparring. Matteo Lane and Nick Smith, two inseparable best friends with famously opposite viewpoints, turn heated debate into comedy gold.
If you appreciate witty, high-energy banter, sharp opinions, and the sheer comedic efficiency of a perfect roast, this live recording of their hit podcast is a must-see. Expect a masterclass in dynamic, unscripted chemistry that proves relentless roasting is simply a high-stakes form of communication.
Hannah Berner – Carnegie Hall, Saturday, November 8
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Viral sensation Hannah Berner brings her None of My Business Tour to Carnegie Hall. Expect witty reflections on relationships, pop culture, and millennial life, all delivered with a charm that makes the audience feel like they’re laughing with a friend rather than watching a show.
Michael Blackson – Hard Rock Hotel New York, Friday, November 14 & Saturday, November 15
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Known as the “African King of Comedy,” Michael Blackson brings his America Is Fkd Comedy Tour to the festival with high-energy delivery, bold punchlines, and a fearless take on cultural commentary. His set is a masterclass in crowd engagement, leaving audiences both laughing and slightly breathless.
With this lineup, you get a chance to experience the full spectrum of comedy.
You Can’t Miss the Rising Stars
While the headliners bring the big names, the real thrill of the New York Comedy Festival 2025 often comes from the rising stars: the comics who are carving out their place in the city’s legendary comedy scene. These performers bring fresh perspectives, fearless energy, and jokes that hit harder because you caught them before everyone else.
Whether you’re an industry insider or a devoted comedy fan, discovering the next breakout star is one of the festival’s most exciting experiences.
Jake Cornell – Gramercy Theatre, Tuesday, November 12
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Jake Cornell has a knack for transforming everyday chaos into sharp, witty storytelling. His observations about modern life (relationships, office absurdities, and social media mishaps) land with precision and charm. Cornell’s timing is impeccable, and his ability to play the audience creates an electric atmosphere.
This performance is ideal for anyone looking for comedy that’s smart, relatable, and effortlessly hilarious.
Sam Morrison & Friends – Littlefield, Friday, November 7
High-energy, slightly unpredictable, and full of surprises, Sam Morrison’s show is a rotating lineup of emerging comedians that changes every night. Expect a mix of sketch, improv, and stand-up that keeps you on your toes.
The collaborative energy among performers makes the audience feel like part of the show, perfect for those who love comedy that’s interactive and a little chaotic.
Django Gold – The Gutter, Friday, November 7
Known for his work with The Onion and appearances on Colbert, Django Gold is taking his stand-up to a new level. His observational humor and clever writing bring a mix of satire and absurdity that feels both current and timeless.
Gold is the kind of rising star who balances polished material with the raw energy of someone destined for bigger stages.
This is your chance to witness the future of comedy. The energy, experimentation, and fearless creativity on display make the New York Comedy Festival 2025 the perfect stage to discover performers who will dominate the comedy scene in the years to come. Watching them now means you can brag later that you saw them before they became household names.
Podcast Live Tapings: The Laughs Behind the Mic
For comedy fans, live podcasts and curated festival events are the hidden gems of the New York Comedy Festival 2025. They offer an up-close, interactive experience that’s as unpredictable as it is hilarious.
Whether you’re a die-hard listener or a first-timer, these shows turn your favorite episodes into a full-on live performance, complete with audience reactions, surprises, and improvisational chaos.
The Basement Yard – Beacon Theatre, November 13
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This fan-favorite podcast brings its unique brand of humor to a live audience. Expect candid conversations, outrageous storytelling, and audience interaction that keeps everyone on their toes. It’s chaos and comedy gold rolled into one, perfect for seeing your favorite podcasters completely unscripted.
Y’all Gay? Live! – Littlefield, November 9
Hosts Ali Clayton and Ever Mainard combine stand-up, storytelling, and conversation with top-secret surprise guests. Y’all Gay? Live! delivers laughter with heart, perspective, and unexpected comedic twists. It’s immersive, inclusive, and full of energy.
If you want to incorporate queer-friendly attractions, dining, and entertainment options into your trip, explore our LGBTQ+ guide to NYC.
That’s Enough LIVE! with Grace Reiter – Union Hall, November 9
Grace Reiter overshares about all things life, comedy, and chaos with a rotating lineup of guests. The unfiltered, no-holds-barred live recording makes for a raw and hilarious experience, perfect for those who love comedy with personality and unpredictability.
How Did This Get Made? – Town Hall, November 7
Experience the cult favorite podcast live as hosts dissect hilariously bad movies. Expect laugh-out-loud commentary, interactive audience moments, and those perfect “did they just say that?” reactions that only a live taping can deliver.
Pete Holmes: The Pete Here Now Tour – Town Hall, November 14
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Comedian and podcaster Pete Holmes blends stand-up with storytelling, improvisation, and his signature offbeat charm. Fans can expect a live energy that elevates every punchline and audience interaction.
These tapings and events highlight the festival’s interactive side. They’re immersive, unpredictable, and guarantee laughter beyond the standard stage setup.
And no, this is not where comedy ends. Explore the best comedy clubs in NYC to keep the magic going!
Pro Tip: Keep checking the official New York Comedy Festival website for updates. Additional live tapings often get announced as the festival approaches, so staying flexible can net you surprise performances and last-minute comedy gems.
Navigating the Festival
The New York Comedy Festival 2025 spans ten days, five boroughs, and more venues than you can shake a mic at. Knowing how to move through the festival efficiently can make the difference between catching every laugh and missing your favorite act.
Here’s how to master the chaos:
- Plan Ahead: Check the comedy week schedule in New York City in advance. Map out which shows, live tapings, or special events you want to attend, and note their locations. Time between venues can be tight, so leaving room for travel is crucial.
- Multiple Venues: From Madison Square Garden to The Tiny Cupboard, the festival spreads across iconic and intimate spaces. Keep addresses handy and consider rideshares or subway options to avoid missing a punchline.
- Timing is Everything: Doors often open 30–45 minutes before showtime. Arrive early to grab prime seating, snag festival swag, and soak in the pre-show energy. Late arrivals might get stuck in the back, or worse, miss the opening joke.
- Stay Flexible: Even the best-laid plans can change. Popular shows might sell out, so have backup options. Many venues host surprise pop-up sets or extra shows that can turn an ordinary night into an unforgettable one.
- Festival Apps & Updates: Use the official website and social media for real-time announcements, ticket alerts, and last-minute schedule changes. It’s the easiest way to avoid FOMO during this comedy marathon.
By mastering your movement across shows, tapping into real-time updates, and building in buffer time, you can experience the best comedy shows in NYC without missing a beat.
Tips for Attending the Festival
A ten-day comedy marathon across New York City is no joke, unless you want it to be. Here’s how to survive, thrive, and make the most of the New York Comedy Festival 2025.
- Secure Your Tickets Early: Festival badges and tickets sell fast, especially for headliners and popular podcasts. Pre-select your shows and lock in your spots as soon as they go on sale.
- Plan Your Route: With venues scattered across five boroughs, travel time matters. Map out your schedule ahead, factoring in subway or rideshare time, so you’re not sprinting across town between sets. Use a New York City travel guide for help.
- Pack Smart: A small backpack with water, snacks, hand sanitizer, a phone charger, and a notebook for comedy notes will be your lifesaver during long days of laughter.
- Footwear First: Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. You’ll be walking between venues, standing in lines, and navigating crowds; save the fancy footwear for post-show selfies.
- Respect the Crowd: Follow venue rules, be courteous, and keep phones on silent. Comedy works best when the audience is fully in the moment.
- Catch Bonus Content: Some shows have post-performance meet-and-greets, Q&As, or surprise sets. Keep a flexible mindset and stay tuned to social media for impromptu comedy gems.
- Festival App & Social Media: Check updates for ticket alerts, schedule changes, and pop-up performances. It’s your lifeline for avoiding FOMO.
Laughs, Lights, and the City That Never Sleeps
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The New York Comedy Festival 2025 is a full-blown celebration of humor, energy, and the unpredictability that only New York City can deliver. From world-class headliners to rising stars lighting up intimate stages, the festival proves that NYC really is the birthplace of modern stand-up comedy.
While you’re hopping between shows and podcast tapings, don’t forget to experience the rest of the Big Apple. At VisitNYC.com, we’ve got you covered with guides to the top NYC attractions, budget-friendly hotels in NYC, top-rated NYC city cruises, and more. We also help you snag last-minute Broadway tickets in NYC, including MJ the Musical, Hamilton, Wicked, and more!
If you’re visiting New York for the Comedy Festival 2025, we’ll make sure you get a chance to explore the comedy scene and the local scene.
So pack your schedule, bring your sense of humor, and let us guide you through the lights, laughter, and limitless possibilities of NYC.
