Insider's Guide to Austin Comedy Clubs & Comedy Festivals
Austin, Texas is well-known for its booming music scene, but it also has a thriving comedy community. The city is brimming with talented comedians, hilarious improvisers, and hilarious stand-up shows. If you're a fan of comedy, Austin is the place to be. In this post, we'll take you through an insider's guide to Austin's best comedy clubs, theaters, and festivals.
Best Austin Comedy Festivals
Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant culture, music scene, and diverse community. But did you know about the city's incredible and hilarious comedy festival scene? Every year, the best comedians from all over the country come to Austin to deliver the laughs during several unique festivals. From traditional stand-up to improv and sketch comedy, Austin has it all.
Out of Bounds Comedy Festival
The Out of Bounds Comedy Festival, held annually in late August, is one of the largest multi-disciplinary comedy festivals in the South. With over 500 performers, the festival features a wide range of comedic acts such as improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy. You can expect a diverse mix of comedy styles from both independent acts and well-known national performers. This festival is a great opportunity to explore Austin's vibrant comedy scene and attend workshops and Q&A sessions with the performers.
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Moon Tower Comedy Festival
Moon Tower Comedy Festival is an annual event that takes over downtown Austin at Paramount Theatre every April. Featuring over 100 acts on seven different stages, this festival is a high dose of laughter guaranteed. The festival has featured big-name star comedians such as Dave Chapelle, Patton Oswalt, and John Mulaney. The festival also features a mix of up-and-coming comedians who are sure to make you laugh as hard as the established acts.
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Austin Sketch Fest
For those looking for something a bit different, Austin Sketch Fest is an excellent option. The festival is entirely dedicated to sketch comedy and includes workshops, performances, and Q&A sessions. You'll get to see some of the best sketch comedy acts from all over the country, and there's always something new and unique happening.
Click here for more information on Austin Sketch Fest
Funniest Person in Austin
Funniest Person in Austin is an annual contest held in Austin every summer, with the winner receiving a $3,000 cash prize and bragging rights. It's a competition that brings the best local talent to one stage, so you can be sure to discover some up-and-coming stars. Witness a hilarious and diverse range of comedy acts as performers are encouraged to bring their best material to impress the judges.
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With dozens of comedy festivals to choose from, there's no shortage of laughs in Austin. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, make sure to check out one of the fantastic comedy festivals the city offers and experience first-hand the hilarious talent Austin has to offer.
Best Austin Comedy Clubs
Whether you're a local or a tourist, visiting Austin comedy clubs is a must for anyone who loves a good laugh. The city is home to some of the most talented comedians, and the venues here regularly host shows that leave audiences in splits.
The Velveeta Room
Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, the Velveeta Room has been around for years and is known for hosting top-notch comedy shows. The club has a cozy and intimate setting that makes every audience member feel like they're part of the performance. The Velveeta Room has an open mic night every Thursday, giving local comedians an opportunity to showcase their talents. If you're looking for a relaxed and casual environment to watch live comedy, the Velveeta Room is perfect.
The Velveeta Room
521 E 6th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-766-8358
Click here for more information on The Velveeta Room
Esther's Follies
Esther's Follies is a comedy club that's been entertaining audiences since 1977. Located on 6th Street, this venue is known for its unique blend of comedy, magic, and music. The shows here are always lively, and you'll never know what to expect. Esther's Follies is also an institution in Austin, and you'll see why once you attend one of their shows.
Esther's Follies
525 E 6th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-320-0553
Click here for more information on Esther's Follies
Cap City Comedy Club
Cap City Comedy Club has been Austin's go-to comedy venue since 1986. The club has a spacious setting that can host up to 300 people and regularly hosts big-name comedians such as Joe Rogan and Ali Wong. Cap City is also known for its comedy workshops and classes that are perfect for anyone looking to hone their skills in stand-up comedy.
Cap City Comedy Club
Bldg B, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace Unit 100
Austin, TX 78758
United States
Phone: +1 512-467-2333
Click here for more information on Cap City Comedy Club
The New Movement
The New Movement is an indie comedy club located on 7th Street and known for showcasing up-and-coming comedians. The venue is small and cozy, creating an intimate atmosphere that's perfect for live comedy. The New Movement is also a school for improv and sketch comedy, making it an excellent spot for anyone interested in developing their comedic skills.
The New Movement
1819 Rosewood Ave
Austin, TX 78702
United States
Click here for more information on The New Movement
ColdTowne Theater
ColdTowne Theater is another indie comedy club that's been a staple in Austin since 2005. The venue is home to various comedy shows ranging from sketch comedy to improv. ColdTowne is also a school for comedy, where you can learn from some of the most talented comedians in the city.
There's no shortage of great comedy clubs in Austin. From established venues like Cap City to smaller indie clubs like The Velveeta Room, this city has something for everyone. Whether you're looking to watch a big-name comedian or discover upcoming local talent, you're sure to have a great time at one of these comedy clubs.
ColdTowne Theater
1700 E 2nd St
Austin, TX 78702
United States
Phone: +1 512-814-8696
Click here for more information on ColdTowne Theater
Austin Open Mic Comedy Nights
Austin’s open mic comedy nights are the perfect place to indulge in an evening of laughter and entertainment. Whether you’re looking to experience something new with friends or unwind after a long day at work, Austin’s open mic comedy nights are the perfect way to let off some steam and brighten up your mood.
The Hideout Theatre
The Hideout Theatre is renowned for hosting some of the best comedy nights in Austin. If you’re a fan of improv comedy, then the Hideout Theatre should be at the top of your list. The theater is located on Congress Avenue downtown, and shows happen every Friday and Saturday.
The Hideout Theatre has a relaxed and casual setting, which encourages improvisers to experiment and take risks. The result is an atmosphere that’s always fun and lighthearted, bringing audiences together to share in the laughter.
The Hideout Theatre
617 Congress Ave.
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-443-3688
Click here for more information on The Hideout Theatre
The Velveeta Room
The Velveeta Room, located on 6th Street, is a classic Austin comedy spot. This venue has a history of hosting legendary comics such as Marc Maron, David Cross, and Bill Hicks. The Velveeta Room’s open mic comedy nights are held every Tuesday and offer a chance to showcase fresh talent.
The stage is open to anyone who can bring the funny. Whether you’re an amateur comedian, seasoned performer, or simply looking for a platform to test your material, the Velveeta Room welcomes all.
The Velveeta Room
521 E 6th St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-766-8358
Click here for more information on The Velveeta Room
The Buzz Mill
The Buzz Mill is an eclectic hub of activity, offering everything from coffee to cocktails and live music. However, the mills' most significant draw is its unique open mic comedy nights. The buzz mill features a comedy talent showcase, the Grindhouse Showdown, held every other Thursday.
The Grindhouse Showdown's format is a friendly comedy competition, where audience members judge and crown the night's winner. The competition often attracts local and touring comedians, making for a vibrant and engaging show with no shortage of laughs.
The Buzz Mill
1505 Town Creek Dr
Austin, TX 78741
United States
Phone: +1 512-547-9909
Click here for more information on The Buzz Mill
Austin Java
Austin Java, located on Barton Springs Road, offers an open stage every Wednesday night for comedians and artists looking for a platform to showcase their talent. The environment at Austin Java is comfortable and relaxed, perfect for an impromptu comedy night with friends.
Despite being a restaurant, Austin Java’s open-mic comedy nights have gained a reputation in the city for their excellent comedy acts, making it a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts.
Austin Java
5404 Menchaca Rd
Austin, TX 78745
United States
Phone: +1 512-580-2606
Click here for more information on Austin Java
Austin’s open mic comedy nights give audiences the chance to experience the thrill of watching stand-up comedy in person and the opportunity to support local talent. Whether you’re on the hunt for dives, clubs, or coffee houses, Austin has a range of comedy venues that cater to both the social butterfly or the lone comic fan.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a chance to discover the next big thing in comedy, Austin has something for everyone. From the historic Velveeta Room to the innovative New Movement, there are plenty of options for comedy fans. And if you're really serious about comedy, you can't miss the Austin Sketch Fest and Moontower Comedy Festival. So grab a seat, a drink, and get ready to laugh your way through Austin.
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