Get Ready to Laugh Your Socks Off at the 2025 Boston Comedy Festival
April 1-5
Picture this: Boston’s streets buzzing with excitement, venues packed with comedy lovers, and the air thick with anticipation—and, of course, laughter. The Boston Comedy Festival is back, celebrating over 25 years of gut-busting, tear-jerking, can’t-stop-smiling hilarity from April 1st to 5th, 2025. Whether you’re a die-hard comedy fan or just looking for a good time, this is the event to kick off your spring with a grin. Here’s everything you need to know about this epic week of wit, whimsy, and downright fun.
Who’s Bringing the Funny?
This year’s lineup is a comedy lover’s dream. We’re talking top-tier global talent, Boston’s finest local legends, and a National Headliner so big we’re keeping it under wraps for now (spoiler: it’ll blow your mind). From Netflix stars to late-night TV staples, these comedians are ready to light up stages across the city. Stay tuned for the big reveal—this crew is about to bring the house down!
What’s Happening?
The Boston Comedy Festival isn’t just a show—it’s a full-on experience. For five glorious days, you’ll get:
Live Shows: Stand-up that’ll have you clutching your sides.
Workshops: Peek behind the curtain and learn from the pros.
Showcases: Discover the next big names in comedy.
A Comedy Contest: Watch 72 rising stars battle it out for a $7,000 grand prize (more on that later!).
This isn’t your average night at the club—it’s a week-long celebration of comedy as an art form, a connector, and a universal language of joy.
When’s the Party?
Mark your calendars: April 1st–5th, 2025. That’s right—five days of non-stop laughs to shake off the winter blues and dive into spring with a smile. Whether you’re popping in for one night or going all-in for the week, there’s something hilarious happening every single day.
Where’s It All Going Down?
Boston’s coolest venues are rolling out the red carpet (or at least the mic stand) for this fest. Here’s the lineup of hotspots hosting the action:
City Winery (80 Beverly St, Boston) – Sip, laugh, repeat.
The Rockwell (255 Elm St, Somerville) – Intimate vibes, big laughs.
Somerville Theatre (55 Davis Square, Somerville) – A grand stage for grand comedy.
The Comedy Studio (5¾ John F. Kennedy St, Cambridge) – Where the magic happens.
Berklee Performance Center (136 Massachusetts Ave, Boston) – Legendary acoustics, legendary acts.
Each spot has its own ticketing system, so if you’ve got questions about seats or need ADA access, give them a quick call—they’re the real MVPs keeping this festival alive year-round!
Why Should You Care?
Because laughter is life, and the Boston Comedy Festival is here to deliver it in spades. This isn’t just about cracking jokes—it’s about creating moments that stick with you. With over two decades of experience, hundreds of comedians, and a passion for keeping the good times rolling, this fest is all about:
Celebrating Comedy: It’s an art form, and we’re here to prove it.
Spotting New Talent: Fresh faces, bold voices—watch them shine.
Bringing the Best: From headliners to locals, only the cream of the crop.
Pushing Creativity: Comedy’s evolving, and we’re leading the charge.
Honoring the Past: Learn the history while laughing at the future.
Having a Blast: Seriously, it’s just fun.
The Comedy Contest: A Battle of Wits
The festival’s Comedy Contest is where things get wild. Kicking off with Preliminary Rounds on April 1st and 2nd across The Comedy Studio, The Rockwell, and City Winery, 72 contestants will duke it out with their sharpest material. The winners advance to the Semi-Finals on April 3rd and 4th at City Winery, narrowing the field to the Final Eight.
Then, on Saturday, April 5th at 8pm, Somerville Theatre hosts the grand finale. These finalists will bring their A-game for a shot at the $7,000 grand prize, judged live by comedy pros and cheered on by a hyped-up crowd. Hosted by Boston legend Tony Viveiros (Seinfeld, Conan), this night will also honor Ryan Hamilton (Comedian of the Year) and Billy Gardell (Lifetime Achievement Award). It’s a comedy showdown you won’t forget!
The Stars of the Show
This year’s performers are a mix of heavy hitters and rising stars. Feast your eyes on names like:
Billy Gardell (Mike & Molly, Bob Hearts Abishola)
Ryan Hamilton (Netflix darling)
Amy Miller, Brooks Wheelan, Emo Phillips, Eddie Pepitone—and so many more!
Plus, the contest features 72 fresh talents like Kirsten Michelle, Zako Ryan, and Big D, all vying for comedy glory. It’s a lineup that blends seasoned pros with the next generation of laugh-makers.
Pro Tips for Festival Fun
Tickets: Each venue handles its own—check their sites or call for details.
ADA Seating: Most spots have it; reach out directly to snag yours.
Mix-Up?: If you grab the wrong show’s tickets, request a refund through the ticketing provider and rebook—hassle, but worth it to catch the right act!
Join the Laughter Revolution!
The Boston Comedy Festival is a community, a vibe, and a chance to let loose. Whether you’re cheering on the contestants, soaking up a workshop, or just basking in the brilliance of comedy’s biggest names, you’re in for a treat. Grab your tickets, rally your crew, and get ready to laugh until it hurts—April 1st to 5th, 2025, Boston’s where it’s at. See you there!
