Austin Comedy Festivals
From world-class festivals to local competitions, Austin's comedy scene hosts some of the best events in the country.
Major Festivals
Moontower
April
One of the biggest comedy festivals in North America. Two weeks of headliner shows at Paramount & State Theatres plus a 4-day club binge with 150+ comedians at 10+ downtown venues.
- •150+ comedians over 2 weeks
- •Headliners at Paramount & State Theatres
- •4-day club series (April 15-18)
SXSW Comedy
March
Part of the larger SXSW Conference & Festivals. Four nights of incredible stand-up sets, improv, live podcast tapings, surprise cameos, and late-night showcases.
- •Part of SXSW Conference & Festivals
- •Stand-up, improv, and podcasts
- •Industry and fan convergence
FPIA
June - September
Annual comedy competition run by Cap City Comedy Club. 250+ local comedians compete in preliminary rounds, semifinals, and finals for the crown and a $3,000 prize.
- •250+ local comedians compete
- •Prelims → Semis → Finals
- •$3,000 prize for winner
More Festivals
Still Standing Comedy Festival
TBD • 1 day • Far Out Lounge
One-day festival where comedy fans unite—nonstop laughs, live beats, and just the right amount of autotune.
Learn More →Altercation Comedy Festival
November • 4 days • Kick Butt Coffee
Austin's punk rock comedy festival celebrating alternative comedy, found VHS footage, punk rock Jeopardy, and more. Supported by KUTX.
Learn More →Major Comedy Venues
These larger venues host touring headliners and special comedy events throughout the year.
Paramount Theatre
Historic Theater • 713 Congress Ave
Moontower headliners + year-round comedy
ACL Live at The Moody Theater
Concert Venue • 310 Willie Nelson Blvd
Bert Kreischer, Jim Jefferies, and more
Moody Center
Arena • 2001 Robert Dedman Dr
Jo Koy, Gabriel Iglesias, Nate Bargatze
Bass Concert Hall
Performing Arts • 2350 Robert Dedman Dr
Large touring acts
Festival Calendar
March
SXSW Comedy
April
Moontower
June - Sept
FPIA Competition
November
Altercation