Did you know that comedy festivals in Las Vegas transform the city into a laughter-filled hub, drawing comedians from around the globe to showcase their talents in venues ranging from intimate clubs to sprawling downtown stages? In a city celebrated for its dazzling entertainment, these festivals offer a unique blend of stand-up, improv, sketch comedy, and more, catering to diverse audiences seeking fresh humor. From the edgy Skankfest to the inclusive Laugh After Dark ComedyFest, Las Vegas’s comedy festivals highlight both established stars and rising talents, making them a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. This comprehensive guide explores the top comedy festivals in Las Vegas for 2025, detailing their highlights, must-see acts, and practical tips for planning an unforgettable experience.
Why Las Vegas is a Comedy Festival Hotspot
Las Vegas’s status as the Entertainment Capital of the World makes it an ideal setting for comedy festivals. The city’s tourism-driven economy ensures a constant influx of diverse audiences, providing comedians with a unique opportunity to test material in front of international visitors and discerning locals. Venues like Notoriety Live in Downtown Las Vegas and the Arts District’s eclectic spaces offer versatile stages, from intimate 150-seat rooms to larger theaters, accommodating a range of festival formats. The proximity to Los Angeles, a comedy epicenter, attracts top talent and industry scouts, amplifying the festivals’ visibility.
These festivals also benefit from Las Vegas’s infrastructure, with world-class hotels, restaurants, and transportation options enhancing the attendee experience. The city’s reputation for bold, boundary-pushing entertainment allows festivals to explore diverse comedic styles, from clean family-friendly acts to provocative satire. Whether you’re a comedy nerd seeking the next big name or a casual fan looking for a fun night out, Las Vegas’s comedy festivals deliver a vibrant, laughter-packed experience.
Top Comedy Festivals in Las Vegas for 2025
Below, we delve into three prominent comedy festivals scheduled for 2025 in Las Vegas, each offering distinct flavors of humor and unique highlights. These events showcase the city’s comedic diversity, featuring stand-up, sketch, improv, and innovative performances that set them apart from regular club shows.
Skankfest Vegas Attacks!
Skankfest, known for its irreverent and boundary-pushing humor, returns to Las Vegas from September 27 to September 29, 2025, at Notoriety Live on Fremont Street. Founded by comedians Luis J. Gomez, Dave Smith, and Big Jay Oakerson, Skankfest has grown from a New York underground event into a major comedy festival, attracting thousands of fans for its unfiltered approach. The 2024 iteration featured heavyweights like Shane Gillis, Tim Dillon, and Mark Normand, alongside live podcasts, contests, and specialty shows, setting a high bar for 2025.
Skankfest’s appeal lies in its eclectic programming, which blends stand-up with unique events like roast battles, live podcast recordings, and themed parties. The festival’s 2024 lineup included podcasts like Legion of Skanks and The Adam Friedland Show, which are expected to return, offering fans a chance to see their favorite hosts in person. Must-see acts for 2025 are likely to include returning favorites like Ari Shaffir, whose provocative storytelling captivates audiences, and rising stars like Sean Gardini, whose sharp wit has earned buzz in comedy circles. The festival’s “specialty shows,” such as the What’s Funny comedy wrestling event, add a chaotic, only-in-Vegas flair, blending physical comedy with absurd theatrics.
Notoriety Live’s multi-room setup, with seven stages ranging from 100 to 500 seats, allows Skankfest to host simultaneous events, creating a choose-your-own-adventure experience. Tickets for 2024 ranged from $150 for general admission to $500 for VIP packages, which included priority seating and exclusive after-parties. For 2025, expect similar pricing, with early-bird deals available through the Skankfest website. The festival’s 21-and-over policy and edgy content make it best suited for adult audiences seeking unfiltered humor. Reviews from 800 Pound Gorilla praise Skankfest’s “electric atmosphere,” noting its ability to foster a sense of community among comedy fans.
Laugh After Dark ComedyFest
The Laugh After Dark ComedyFest, held annually in the Downtown Arts District, is a standout for its inclusive approach, combining stand-up, comedy films, and industry panels to celebrate all facets of comedy. Scheduled for late 2025 (exact dates pending, typically October), this festival, produced by Robert and Kelsey Massi, emphasizes accessibility and diversity, showcasing comedians from varied backgrounds alongside short comedic films. The 2024 event featured performers like Shayma Tash and Jamie Lissow, with screenings at venues like the Art Factory and stand-up showcases at local hotspots like Velveteen Rabbit.
What sets Laugh After Dark apart is its blend of live performances and cinematic comedy, offering a platform for both stage and screen talent. The festival’s stand-up showcases highlight emerging comedians, with 2024 acts like Kristeen von Hagen delivering quirky, relatable sets that resonated with audiences. Must-see acts for 2025 are expected to include local favorites like Edwin San Juan, whose high-energy cultural humor shines at Planet Hollywood, and new faces discovered through the festival’s open submissions. The comedy film screenings, often followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers, provide a unique angle, showcasing shorts that range from absurd sketches to heartfelt narratives.
The festival’s educational component, including panels on comedy writing and career-building, attracts aspiring comedians and industry professionals, fostering networking opportunities. Venues in the Arts District, such as Silver State Studios and The Usual Place, create an intimate, walkable festival experience, with tickets typically ranging from $20 for individual showcases to $100 for all-access passes. Reviews on the festival’s website highlight its “curated, positive vibe,” with attendees appreciating the chance to connect with comedians and filmmakers. The event’s all-ages showcases, paired with adult-oriented late-night sets, make it versatile for families and comedy enthusiasts alike.
Fallout Fringe Festival
The Fallout Fringe Festival, running from June 3 to June 25, 2025, in Downtown Las Vegas, is a bold, experimental event that pushes the boundaries of traditional comedy and theater. Described on its website as a showcase for “the absurd, the questionable, and the daring,” Fallout Fringe features a mix of comedy, burlesque, circus, and avant-garde performances across unconventional venues like nightclubs, bars, and pop-up stages. While not exclusively a comedy festival, its comedic offerings, including sketch, improv, and stand-up, make it a must-visit for fans seeking innovative humor.
The festival’s comedy highlights include troupes like Bleach Improv, known for their long-form improv at Mom’s Basement Theatre, and solo acts like Tommy Todd, whose Television TV sketch show blends absurdism with sharp satire. Must-see acts for 2025 are likely to feature experimental comedians like Amy Saunders, whose Mavericks variety show at the Plaza Showroom combines improv, sword-swallowing, and audience interaction. The festival’s open-application model encourages new performers, resulting in a diverse lineup that might include local up-and-comers alongside visiting acts from festivals like SF Sketchfest.
Fallout Fringe’s decentralized format, with performances spread across Downtown venues like The English Hotel and Fergusons Downtown, creates a vibrant, exploratory atmosphere. Tickets are budget-friendly, with individual shows starting at $15 and festival passes around $50, available through the Fallout Fringe website. The festival’s mix of all-ages and 21-and-over events caters to varied audiences, though parents should check content warnings for edgier shows. A Las Vegas Review-Journal feature praises its “world-class, affordable” productions, noting Saunders’s ability to “play into the crowd” with unmatched charisma.
Must-See Acts Across the Festivals
While each festival has its own flavor, certain comedians and troupes stand out as must-see acts for 2025, based on their local impact and rising profiles. At Skankfest, Ari Shaffir’s unapologetic storytelling, often tackling controversial topics with biting humor, is a draw for fans of edgy comedy. His 2024 set, described by attendees as “hilariously chaotic,” is likely to be a highlight again. Sean Gardini, a newer face, brings a fresh perspective with his quick-witted crowd work, making him a breakout candidate.
For Laugh After Dark ComedyFest, Edwin San Juan’s high-energy performances, rooted in his Filipino-American experiences, are a crowd-pleaser, especially after his acclaimed sets at Planet Hollywood. Kristeen von Hagen’s quirky, offbeat humor, showcased in 2024, is another reason to attend, with her ability to turn personal anecdotes into universal laughs. The festival’s comedy films, such as 2024’s Laugh After Dark: Live from Vegas, offer a cinematic treat, blending stand-up clips with behind-the-scenes insights.
Fallout Fringe’s comedic gems include Bleach Improv’s long-form narratives, which weave audience suggestions into cohesive, hilarious stories. Tommy Todd’s Television TV sketches, like “Methonites,” showcase his knack for absurd humor, while Amy Saunders’s Mavericks delivers a unpredictable mix of comedy and variety. These acts, often performed in unconventional spaces, capture the festival’s daring spirit.
Planning Your Festival Experience
Attending a comedy festival in Las Vegas requires some planning to maximize your enjoyment. Here are key considerations to ensure a seamless experience:
- Choosing a Festival: Skankfest is ideal for adults seeking edgy, high-energy comedy, with its focus on stand-up and live podcasts. Laugh After Dark suits those interested in a mix of live and filmed comedy, with educational panels for aspiring comedians. Fallout Fringe appeals to adventurous audiences open to experimental performances in unique settings.
- Location and Venues: Skankfest’s Notoriety Live (515 E. Fremont St.) is centrally located in Downtown, near hotels like the Golden Nugget. Laugh After Dark’s Arts District venues, like Velveteen Rabbit (1218 S. Main St.), are walkable but require rideshares or parking planning. Fallout Fringe’s spread across Downtown, including The English Hotel (921 S. Main St.), encourages exploration but may involve multiple locations in one night.
- Tickets and Budget: Skankfest’s higher price point ($150–$500) reflects its star-studded lineup, so book early for deals. Laugh After Dark’s affordable tickets ($20–$100) make it accessible, with group discounts often available. Fallout Fringe’s low-cost shows ($15–$50) are budget-friendly, but passes offer the best value for multiple performances. Check festival websites or platforms like Ticketmaster for updates.
- Schedule and Timing: Skankfest’s three-day format (Friday–Sunday) requires prioritizing key acts, as events overlap. Laugh After Dark’s multi-day schedule, typically spanning a weekend, allows for daytime panels and evening showcases. Fallout Fringe’s three-week run offers flexibility, with daily performances but varying start times. Arrive early for popular shows, as smaller venues like Notoriety’s 150-seat rooms fill quickly.
- Audience Considerations: Skankfest is 21-and-over, with content that may offend sensitive viewers. Laugh After Dark offers all-ages showcases but includes adult-oriented late-night sets, so check schedules for family-friendly options. Fallout Fringe varies by show, with some suitable for teens and others requiring adult supervision. Always review age and content guidelines before booking.
Tips for Enjoying Comedy Festivals
To make the most of your comedy festival experience in Las Vegas, consider these practical tips. First, plan your itinerary but stay flexible. Festivals like Skankfest and Fallout Fringe feature overlapping events, so prioritize must-see acts like Ari Shaffir or Bleach Improv while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries. Download festival apps or check social media for real-time updates on schedule changes or surprise performances.
Second, embrace the interactive nature of comedy. Engage with performers during crowd work, as comedians like Sean Gardini thrive on audience energy. For improv shows at Fallout Fringe, shout out creative suggestions to shape the performance. However, respect boundaries and avoid heckling, which can disrupt the show’s flow.
Third, explore the festival’s surroundings. Skankfest’s Fremont Street location is steps from dining options like Le Thai and attractions like the Fremont Street Experience. Laugh After Dark’s Arts District offers culinary gems like Esther’s Kitchen, perfect for pre-show meals. Fallout Fringe’s Downtown venues are near bars like Atomic Liquors, ideal for post-show drinks. Combine your festival visit with other Las Vegas activities, such as the High Roller or a visit to The Sphere, to enhance your trip.
Fourth, network and connect. Laugh After Dark’s panels and Fallout Fringe’s open format provide opportunities to meet comedians and industry professionals. Bring business cards if you’re an aspiring performer, and follow acts like Kristeen von Hagen on social media to stay updated on their careers. Finally, pace yourself. With multiple shows in a day, especially at Skankfest, take breaks to avoid comedy fatigue, and stay hydrated in Las Vegas’s desert climate.
The Broader Comedy Festival Landscape
Beyond these three festivals, Las Vegas’s comedy scene is enriched by smaller events and one-off showcases that may include festival-like elements. Wiseguys Comedy Cafe’s open mic nights and themed events, like The Dirty at 12:30, occasionally feature festival-style lineups with multiple comedians. The L.A. Comedy Club at The STRAT hosts showcase nights that mimic festival formats, spotlighting local talents like Derek Richards alongside touring acts.
The city’s comedy clubs, such as Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club and Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, also contribute to the festival ecosystem by hosting special events during peak seasons. For example, Jimmy Kimmel’s may feature festival-adjacent showcases during Skankfest, capitalizing on the influx of comedy fans. These complementary events ensure that Las Vegas remains a year-round comedy destination, even outside official festival dates.
The Future of Comedy Festivals in Las Vegas
The future of comedy festivals in Las Vegas is bright, driven by the city’s growing reputation as a comedy hub. Skankfest’s expansion, with 2024 attendance exceeding 5,000, suggests it could scale to larger venues like The Theater at Virgin Hotels in future years. Laugh After Dark’s focus on diversity and film is likely to attract more filmmakers and comedians, potentially integrating virtual screenings to reach global audiences. Fallout Fringe’s experimental model could inspire more fringe-style events, leveraging Las Vegas’s unconventional venues to showcase boundary-pushing comedy.
Emerging trends, such as interactive technology and hybrid formats, may shape these festivals. Skankfest could incorporate live-streamed podcasts, while Laugh After Dark might use apps for audience-driven comedy challenges. The increasing presence of women and underrepresented comedians, like Shayma Tash at Laugh After Dark, reflects a broader shift toward inclusivity, ensuring festivals mirror Las Vegas’s diverse audience. As the city continues to invest in its Arts District and Downtown, expect more venues to host comedy events, further cementing Las Vegas’s status as a festival destination.
Conclusion
Comedy festivals in Las Vegas are a dynamic celebration of humor, bringing together comedians, fans, and industry professionals in a city that thrives on entertainment. Skankfest’s irreverent energy, Laugh After Dark’s inclusive creativity, and Fallout Fringe’s daring experimentation offer something for every comedy lover, from edgy stand-up to innovative sketch shows. Must-see acts like Ari Shaffir, Edwin San Juan, and Bleach Improv highlight the talent driving these events, while venues like Notoriety Live and the Arts District provide vibrant backdrops. Whether you’re planning a weekend at Skankfest or exploring Fallout Fringe’s eclectic lineup, these festivals promise laughter, discovery, and a quintessential Las Vegas experience. Book your tickets, explore the city, and immerse yourself in the comedic brilliance of Las Vegas.
