Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado, is known for its stunning mountain views, vibrant outdoor culture, and emerging arts scene. In recent years, it has also become a hotbed for stand-up comedy. With a laid-back vibe and an ever-growing community of both local and touring comedians, Denver’s comedy scene offers something for everyone. The city’s comedy clubs and festivals showcase a wide range of talent, from rising stars to big-name headliners, making Denver a must-visit destination for comedy fans. Whether you're into stand-up, improv, or alternative comedy, Denver's thriving scene has it all.

Top Comedy Clubs in Denver

• Comedy Works Downtown
  One of the most iconic comedy clubs in the country, Comedy Works Downtown is a staple of the Denver comedy scene. Located in Larimer Square, this club has been around since 1981 and has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy, including Dave Chappelle, Ellen DeGeneres, and Kevin Hart. The club’s intimate setting and loyal audience make it a favorite spot for both performers and fans.

• Comedy Works South
  A sister venue to the Downtown club, Comedy Works South in Greenwood Village offers the same high-quality comedy experience in a larger, more modern space. With top-tier headliners and local showcases, this venue is perfect for comedy fans looking for a lively night out in the suburbs.

• Denver Improv
  Located in the Northfield Stapleton shopping center, Denver Improv is another popular spot for stand-up in the city. The club regularly features nationally touring comedians as well as special events, making it a go-to venue for comedy lovers in the Denver area.

• Voodoo Comedy Playhouse
  Known for its focus on improv and sketch comedy, Voodoo Comedy Playhouse offers something a little different from the traditional stand-up scene. Located in the heart of downtown Denver, this theater hosts improv shows, stand-up, and even comedy karaoke, providing a diverse range of comedic entertainment.

• The Bug Theatre
  For those looking for alternative comedy, The Bug Theatre in Denver’s Highlands neighborhood is a great place to catch experimental performances and underground comedy acts. This indie venue is home to popular shows like The Grawlix and Lucha Libre & Laughs, a unique combination of wrestling and comedy.

Comedians to Watch in Denver

• Josh Blue
  A Denver native and winner of Last Comic Standing, Josh Blue is one of the city’s most successful comedic exports. Known for his self-deprecating humor and sharp wit, Blue’s material often addresses his cerebral palsy and provides a fresh perspective on everyday life. He frequently performs at Comedy Works and other venues around town.

• Adam Cayton-Holland
  As one-third of the comedy trio The Grawlix, Adam Cayton-Holland is a major figure in the Denver comedy scene. He’s also the co-creator and star of the truTV series Those Who Can’t. His witty, observational humor makes him a regular performer at Comedy Works and The Bug Theatre.

• Troy Walker
  Denver comedian Troy Walker is known for his smooth delivery and thoughtful, clever material. A two-time winner of Comedy Works’ "New Faces" competition, Walker is a rising star on the national comedy circuit, often performing alongside headliners at major clubs across the country.

• Nancy Norton
  A stand-up veteran in Denver, Nancy Norton became the first woman to win the Boston Comedy Festival in 2018. Her lively, animated performances have made her a favorite in the local scene, and she regularly headlines at Comedy Works.

• Sam Tallent
  Known for his unpredictable style and high-energy performances, Sam Tallent is a Denver-based comedian who has gained a cult following. He’s also the author of the critically acclaimed novel Running the Light, and you can catch him performing at venues like The Bug Theatre and Comedy Works.

Comedy Festivals in Denver

• High Plains Comedy Festival
  The High Plains Comedy Festival is one of the most popular comedy events in Denver, attracting top talent from around the country. Held every August in the South Broadway neighborhood, the festival features headliners like Maria Bamford and Kyle Kinane, along with showcases of local comedians. It’s a multi-day event filled with stand-up shows, podcasts, and other comedy-related performances.

• Denver Improv Festival
  This annual festival, hosted by the Denver Improv Comedy Collective (DIF), celebrates the best of improvisational comedy. The event features performances from both local and national improv troupes, as well as workshops for aspiring performers. Held in October, the Denver Improv Festival is a must for fans of quick-thinking, on-the-spot humor.

• Laugh Your Craft Off
  Held at the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, Laugh Your Craft Off blends art and comedy, with comedians performing alongside interactive art exhibits. This unique event provides a one-of-a-kind comedy experience, allowing audiences to enjoy both visual art and live comedy in the same space.

• The Women in Comedy Festival
  Celebrating female and non-binary comedians, the Women in Comedy Festival is a growing event in Denver’s comedy scene. The festival features stand-up, sketch, and improv performances from diverse voices, and aims to elevate women in the comedy industry.

• Comedy Saved the Video Star
  A niche festival for comedy and music lovers, Comedy Saved the Video Star is held at Denver’s Alamo Drafthouse and features comedians performing alongside music video screenings. The festival celebrates the intersection of music and comedy in a laid-back, nostalgic atmosphere.

Denver’s comedy scene has grown into one of the most exciting in the country, thanks to its top-notch clubs, talented comedians, and lively festivals. Whether you’re in the mood for a major headliner at Comedy Works or a quirky alternative show at The Bug Theatre, Denver has something to offer every comedy fan. With its growing reputation for both stand-up and improv, the city is quickly becoming a major destination for laughter in the Rockies.