Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its southern hospitality, rich history, and booming entertainment industry, but it’s also home to a thriving stand-up comedy scene. The city has become a hub for both established comedians and emerging talent, with a diverse array of comedy clubs, open mics, and festivals that showcase its growing comedic community. Atlanta’s comedy scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from high-energy, big-name performances to local showcases brimming with up-and-coming talent. With major networks and film studios based in the city, Atlanta is not only a hotspot for comedy but also a launching pad for entertainers looking to break into the industry.

Top Comedy Clubs in Atlanta

• The Laughing Skull Lounge: Tucked away in the back of The Vortex in Midtown, The Laughing Skull Lounge is a premier comedy club in Atlanta known for its intimate setting and killer lineups. With only about 80 seats, the club offers a unique, up-close experience with comedians, making it a favorite among both performers and audiences. The Laughing Skull hosts some of the biggest names in comedy and also has open mics and showcases for local talent.

• Uptown Comedy Corner: One of the longest-running comedy clubs in Atlanta, Uptown Comedy Corner has earned its reputation as a hotspot for urban comedy. Located in the West Midtown area, this club regularly features top national headliners and touring acts. It’s also known for its lively atmosphere and high-energy shows, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s vibrant comedy scene.

• Punchline Comedy Club: Since 1982, Punchline Comedy Club has been an Atlanta institution for stand-up. Located in Buckhead, Punchline regularly hosts comedy’s biggest stars, as well as giving a platform for local comics to shine. Its long history and consistently strong lineups have solidified its status as one of the top comedy clubs in the Southeast.

• Relapse Theatre: For fans of alternative and experimental comedy, Relapse Theatre is the place to be. This unique venue in the Midtown area offers a wide range of performances, from stand-up and improv to sketch comedy. It’s a great place to catch new and daring acts, and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedy has made it a favorite among Atlanta’s creative crowd.

Comedians to Watch in Atlanta

• Clayton English: Winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Clayton English is one of Atlanta’s most successful comedic exports. Known for his laid-back style and sharp observational humor, English performs regularly in Atlanta and has gained national recognition with appearances on Comedy Central and Late Night with Seth Meyers. His quick wit and effortless stage presence make him a standout in Atlanta’s comedy scene.

• Dulcé Sloan: Dulcé Sloan, a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, has her roots in Atlanta’s comedy community. Known for her bold, fearless humor, Sloan blends sharp political commentary with hilarious takes on everyday life. She performs regularly in Atlanta when she’s not touring, and her unique voice continues to make waves in both the local and national comedy scenes.

• Lace Larrabee: A fast-rising star in the Atlanta comedy world, Lace Larrabee’s witty and relatable humor has earned her a dedicated following. A frequent performer at The Punchline and Laughing Skull Lounge, Larrabee’s sharp takes on life’s ups and downs have made her a comedian to watch. She’s also the founder of Laugh Lab, Atlanta’s first all-female stand-up comedy class, further contributing to the city’s growing comedy scene.

• Katt Williams: Though he’s now a nationally recognized comedian, Katt Williams has deep roots in Atlanta. Known for his high-energy performances and no-holds-barred comedy, Williams still performs in his adopted hometown and continues to be a major influence on the city’s comedy culture.

• Rob Haze: With his infectious energy and charismatic stage presence, Rob Haze is quickly becoming one of Atlanta’s top comedic talents. He’s performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Comedy Central, and is a regular at clubs around the city. Haze’s unique blend of personal stories and clever punchlines makes him a must-see comic in Atlanta.

Comedy Festivals in Atlanta

• Red Clay Comedy Festival: One of the largest and most celebrated comedy festivals in the Southeast, Red Clay Comedy Festival brings together top comedians from across the country. Held annually in various venues around Atlanta, the festival features stand-up performances, live podcasts, and comedy showcases. With a mix of big names and local talent, Red Clay is a highlight of Atlanta’s comedy calendar.

• Laughing Skull Comedy Festival: Hosted by The Laughing Skull Lounge, this festival is a major event for both comedians and comedy fans. Known for discovering new talent, the Laughing Skull Comedy Festival features hundreds of comedians competing for top honors. It’s a must-attend event for anyone looking to catch the next big thing in comedy, with performances held across multiple venues in the city.

• Atlanta Comedy Arts Festival: Celebrating all things comedy, the Atlanta Comedy Arts Festival showcases stand-up, improv, sketch comedy, and more. Held in various locations across the city, this festival highlights Atlanta’s diverse comedic talent and serves as a platform for both local and national acts to perform in front of large audiences.

Atlanta’s comedy scene is thriving, with a unique blend of big-name headliners, fresh local talent, and experimental shows that make it a standout destination for comedy lovers. Whether you’re catching a show at the legendary Laughing Skull Lounge or discovering new talent at Relapse Theatre, the city offers something for every comedy fan. With its growing reputation as an entertainment hub, Atlanta’s stand-up comedy scene continues to grow, attracting talent from all over the country while supporting the next generation of comedians.