Chicago, IL

Chicago, Illinois, is not just known for its deep-dish pizza, stunning architecture, and storied sports teams—it's also a comedy powerhouse. The city has a rich history in comedy, from launching some of the biggest names in stand-up to being the birthplace of modern improvisational theater. With legendary comedy clubs, a thriving community of performers, and several festivals that draw both local and international talent, Chicago’s comedy scene is a must-experience for anyone who loves to laugh.

Top Comedy Clubs in Chicago

• The Second City
  Chicago’s most iconic comedy institution, The Second City, has been a launchpad for comedy legends like Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Steve Carell. Known for its improv and sketch comedy shows, The Second City continues to be one of the best places to see the next generation of comedic stars.

• Zanies Comedy Club
  One of the oldest stand-up clubs in Chicago, Zanies has been a staple of the city’s comedy scene since 1978. Located in Old Town, Zanies regularly hosts top stand-up comedians from around the country and serves as a major stop for touring comics.

• The Laugh Factory
  Situated in the Lakeview neighborhood, The Laugh Factory Chicago is part of the famous Laugh Factory chain, known for bringing in both big names and emerging talents. With its diverse lineup, the club provides a platform for comics from all backgrounds and styles, making it one of the best places to catch stand-up in the city.

• ComedySportz Chicago
  Known for its family-friendly, competitive improv shows, ComedySportz is a great spot for those looking to enjoy clean, fast-paced humor. Teams of improvisers go head-to-head in hilarious games, with the audience deciding the winner.

• The Lincoln Lodge
  One of the longest-running independent comedy shows in the country, The Lincoln Lodge is where Chicago’s best local stand-up comedians come to perform. The venue also showcases variety acts and offers comedy classes, making it a cornerstone of the city’s alternative comedy scene.

Comedians to Watch in Chicago

• Rhea Butcher
  Originally from Ohio, Rhea Butcher has made a big splash in Chicago's comedy scene with their clever, insightful stand-up that often touches on topics like gender, identity, and relationships. Rhea is a regular performer at The Laugh Factory and Zanies.

• Alex Kumin
  Known for her quick wit and sharp takes on everything from dating to social justice, Alex Kumin is a rising star in Chicago's comedy community. She frequently performs at The Lincoln Lodge and has opened for major comedians like Maria Bamford.

• Matty Ryan
  Matty Ryan’s relatable humor and laid-back style have made him one of the top comics to watch in Chicago. A regular at Zanies and The Laugh Factory, Matty’s material covers everything from life in the city to family dynamics.

• T. Murph
  Known for his high-energy performances and razor-sharp punchlines, T. Murph is one of Chicago's hottest comedic talents. With appearances on Comedy Central and The Tonight Show, he’s a comedian on the rise, and you can catch him at various clubs around the city.

• Kelsie Huff
  As a regular performer at Zanies and the host of the “Kates” comedy showcase, Kelsie Huff has become one of Chicago's standout comics. Her storytelling style, often filled with humor about growing up in the Midwest, resonates strongly with local audiences.

Comedy Festivals in Chicago

• Chicago Improv Festival
  This festival celebrates all forms of improvisational theater, with performances by both local and international improv troupes. Since its inception in 1998, the Chicago Improv Festival has become one of the premier events for improv comedy in the world, drawing audiences and performers from around the globe.

• The Chicago Comedy Film Festival
  This unique festival celebrates comedic storytelling through film, showcasing independent comedies, shorts, and full-length features. Held annually, the event is a great place to discover new voices in comedy cinema and to see films from established and up-and-coming directors alike.

• Laughing Stock Comedy Music Festival
  A one-of-a-kind festival that brings together music and comedy, Laughing Stock is held at various venues across the city and features everything from stand-up and improv to musical comedy acts. It’s a fun way to see how comedy can blend with other art forms to create something fresh and exciting.

• Chicago Women’s Funny Festival
  Celebrating women in comedy, this festival is dedicated to highlighting the contributions of women to the comedy world. From stand-up and sketch to improv and solo performances, the Chicago Women's Funny Festival brings together a diverse range of female voices each year.

• The Second City’s Break Out Comedy Festival
  This festival, held at The Second City, showcases up-and-coming comedians from diverse backgrounds. It’s a great opportunity to see the next generation of comedy stars before they break out on a national scale. The festival is a celebration of diversity in comedy, with performers bringing a wide range of perspectives and styles to the stage.

From legendary institutions like The Second City to independent shows and festivals that celebrate a wide variety of comedic talent, Chicago remains one of the most important cities in the world for comedy. Whether you’re into stand-up, sketch, or improv, the city offers countless opportunities to experience top-notch performances and discover the next big thing in comedy.