The Bristol Comedy Festival returns in January 2026
Posted on: 30 Oct 2025The Bristol Comedy Festival returns for its second edition from 15-31 January 2026 transforming the city into a hub of laughter, creativity and connection. Following a successful inaugural year that brought together hundreds of comedy fans, performers and venues, the festival will build on its momentum with an expanded programme of shows and events across Bristol.
This year’s festival will see names like Bristol’s Jayde Adams, author and funny man Mark Watson, critically-acclaimed stand-up and podcaster Milo Edwards and breakout winner of So You Think You’re Funny Finlay Christie.
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Run by a small team from the local comedy scene, The Bristol Comedy Festival was established to champion Bristol’s thriving comedy scene and showcase both emerging and established talent. This year’s event will continue to celebrate the creativity and diversity of Bristol’s performers, while introducing new acts and partnerships that will make the festival’s second edition bigger and bolder than before.
New for 2026, ticket buyers will be able to add an optional donation to TAP for Bristol when purchasing tickets, raising funds for local charities that support people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Donations go directly to organisations such as Caring in Bristol, Emmaus Bristol and SLEEC, which provide vital services, accommodation, and support for those in need. This partnership highlights the festival’s ongoing commitment to bringing people together and giving back to the community, using comedy as a catalyst for positive impact across the city.
Co-founder Harry Allmark said: “Seeing how Bristol embraced the festival in its first year was incredible. The city has such a passionate, creative comedy community and our 2026 event will build on that energy with more venues, more acts and more opportunities for people to get involved.”
As part of its community focus, the festival team is inviting volunteers to join the crew that helps bring the event to life. Volunteers will gain hands-on experience across a variety of roles including audience management, event tech, logistics and marketing support. Those interested can apply via the festival website.
The Bristol Comedy Festival is also welcoming new partners to join its growing network of supporters. Businesses and organisations are invited to help make the 2026 event even more inclusive and far-reaching through financial sponsorship, in-kind contributions or creative collaborations. From sponsoring a venue or show to providing services or discounts for performers and volunteers, there are many ways to be part of the city’s biggest celebration of comedy.
With performances and events taking place across Bristol from mid-January, The Bristol Comedy Festival will continue to strengthen the city’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading destinations for live comedy.
Further details, updates and tickets can be found at thebristolcomedyfestival.com.The full line-up of venues and acts will be announced soon.
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