Harrogate Comedy Festival celebrates 17 years of bringing Britain’s biggest laughs to Yorkshire

Harrogate Theatre is preparing to welcome some of the biggest names in comedy as Harrogate Comedy Festival returns this autumn with another outstanding programme of stand-up, improv, storytelling and family entertainment.

Now a firm favourite in the comedy calendar, the festival continues to grow year on year, attracting comedy fans from across Yorkshire and beyond to experience a brilliant mix of household names, much-loved performers and exciting talent.

This year’s line-up includes Richard Ayoade, Harry Enfield, Alexei Sayle, Maisie Adam, Miriam Margolyes, Jason Byrne, Reece Shearsmith and many more.

The festival opens with the hilarious A Star Wars Improv Show: The One-Man Made-Up Movie Parody, before audiences can enjoy the Olivier Award-winning Showstopper! The Improvised Musical. The ever-popular Hyena Lounge Comedy Club also returns as part of the festival, showcasing some of the very best comedians on the UK circuit.

This year’s programme sees Yorkshire favourite Maisie Adam return with her brand-new tour Whatsherface, before hosting Frank’s Fund Comedy Gala. Beloved actress and raconteur Miriam Margolyes brings her live show Full English to Harrogate Convention Centre, while audiences can also enjoy high-energy stand-up from Jason Byrne, Seann Walsh and Tez Ilyas. Families can look forward to Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show!

This year’s festival welcomes the brilliantly funny comedy legends Paul Merton and Suki Webster and audiences can also enjoy the sharp observations of Laura Smyth, the quick wit of Ed Patrick and Rachel Mars, as well as the hilarious Scummy Mummies, The 4 Johns and Daniel Kitson.

Harrogate Comedy Festival programmer Marcus Romer said:

“Harrogate Comedy Festival has become one of the highlights of our year, attracting some of the country’s finest comedians alongside exciting new voices. We’re delighted to once again bring such a varied programme to Harrogate, offering something for everyone – whether you’re a lifelong comedy fan or simply looking for a great night out.”

Now in its 17th year, Harrogate Comedy Festival has built a reputation for bringing nationally acclaimed acts to North Yorkshire, while providing audiences with opportunities to discover rising stars before they become household names.

Harrogate Theatre is incredible grateful for the support of Harrogate Comedy Festival’s primary partner Vet Dentist.

Tickets for all performances are on sale now, with many shows expected to sell quickly.

For the full Harrogate Comedy Festival programme and to book tickets, click here.