SXSW Comedy
Part of SXSW Conference & Festivals • March
📅
March 2026
4 nights of comedy
🎟️
Badge Required
Any SXSW badge type
📍
Downtown Austin
Multiple venues
About SXSW Comedy
SXSW Comedy is part of the legendary South by Southwest Conference & Festivals, bringing four nights of incredible stand-up, improv, live podcast tapings, surprise cameos, and late-night showcases to downtown Austin.
What started as informal comedy shows has grown into a destination event where industry scouts, fans, and performers converge. Many comedians have used SXSW as a launching pad for their careers, with breakout performances leading to major opportunities.
What to Expect
Common Venues
Esther's Follies
Comedy/Sketch Theater
Stateside at the Paramount
Historic Theater
Cap City Comedy Club
Comedy Club
Various Downtown Venues
Pop-up locations
Notable Alumni
Patton Oswalt
Multiple appearances
Amy Schumer
Breakout performances
Nick Kroll
Character showcases
Ilana Glazer
Before Broad City
Reggie Watts
Musical comedy sets
Hannibal Buress
Rising star showcases
Natasha Leggero
Stand-up sets
Kyle Kinane
Late-night sets
How to Attend
Get a Badge
SXSW Comedy is included with any SXSW badge (Interactive, Film, Music, or Platinum).
Check the Schedule
Comedy events are listed in the official SXSW schedule. Plan your nights ahead.
RSVP Early
Popular shows fill up fast. RSVP through the SXSW app or website.
Arrive Early
Lines form quickly. Arrive 30-45 minutes before showtime for best seats.
Pro Tips
- 💡Badge holders get priority, but some shows are open to the public
- 💡Download the SXSW GO app for real-time schedule updates
- 💡Late-night showcases often have surprise guests
- 💡Check social media for unofficial comedy shows and pop-ups
- 💡Comedy venues are concentrated downtown, easily walkable