Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a cultural hotspot in the Midwest, known for its thriving arts scene, music, and, increasingly, its vibrant comedy community. With its progressive mindset and diverse population, Minneapolis has become a breeding ground for fresh comedic talent. The city's comedy clubs, theaters, and festivals provide plenty of opportunities for both local comedians and touring acts to showcase their talents. Whether you're into stand-up, improv, or sketch comedy, Minneapolis offers a unique and lively comedy scene that reflects the city's energetic and creative spirit.

Top Comedy Clubs in Minneapolis

• Acme Comedy Company
  One of the most beloved comedy clubs in the country, Acme Comedy Company is the cornerstone of the Minneapolis comedy scene. Located in the North Loop, Acme hosts top national and local comedians, with a reputation for being a great place for comics to try out new material. The club’s intimate atmosphere and devoted audience make it a must-visit for comedy fans.

• Sisyphus Brewing
  Known for its craft beer and regular comedy nights, Sisyphus Brewing combines two great pastimes—drinking and laughing. The brewery’s comedy room has become a popular venue for stand-up shows featuring local comics and touring performers. It’s a laid-back spot where you can enjoy a cold brew while catching hilarious sets from up-and-coming comedians.

• Comedy Corner Underground
  Located in the basement of Corner Bar, this cozy venue is one of the best places in the city for discovering new comedic talent. Comedy Corner Underground is a favorite among local comedians, and its intimate setting allows for a close connection between performers and the audience. The club also hosts regular open mic nights, where aspiring comics test their material.

• The Brave New Workshop
  As one of the longest-running sketch and improv comedy theaters in the U.S., The Brave New Workshop is a Minneapolis institution. Founded in 1958, it has launched the careers of many comedians, including Saturday Night Live alumni like Al Franken. Specializing in political and satirical comedy, the theater hosts both scripted sketch shows and improv performances.

• House of Comedy at the Mall of America
  A popular venue for national headliners, House of Comedy brings some of the biggest names in stand-up to Minneapolis. Located at the Mall of America, the club is known for its lively atmosphere and high-quality performances. It’s a great spot to catch top touring comedians as well as local talent.

Comedians to Watch in Minneapolis

• Chad Daniels
  A nationally touring comedian and Minneapolis native, Chad Daniels is known for his sharp wit and relatable humor. He’s performed on Conan and The Late Late Show, and his comedy special, Dad Chaniels, has made him a fan favorite across the country. Chad regularly returns to his hometown and performs at Acme Comedy Company.

• Ali Sultan
  Ali Sultan is a Minneapolis-based comedian whose personal and insightful comedy has earned him recognition both locally and nationally. As the first Yemeni-American comedian to record a stand-up special, Sultan blends his unique cultural experiences with clever humor, often performing at venues like Sisyphus Brewing and Acme.

• Maggie Faris
  Known for her quick wit and positive energy, Maggie Faris is a Minneapolis-based comedian who regularly performs at clubs around the Twin Cities. With a focus on observational humor and storytelling, Faris is a local favorite and a frequent headliner at Comedy Corner Underground.

• Mary Mack
  A staple of the Midwest comedy scene, Mary Mack’s quirky, down-to-earth style and clever punchlines have made her a hit across the country. Often compared to Gilda Radner, Mack is a regular at Acme Comedy Company and has appeared on shows like Conan and Last Comic Standing.

• Pierre Douglas
  Pierre Douglas is one of Minneapolis’s rising comedy stars. Known for his engaging stage presence and humorous takes on relationships, family, and life as a Minnesotan, he’s a regular at local clubs like House of Comedy and Comedy Corner Underground.

Comedy Festivals in Minneapolis

• 10,000 Laughs Comedy Festival
  One of the largest comedy festivals in the Midwest, the 10,000 Laughs Comedy Festival brings together top talent from across the country for a multi-day celebration of stand-up comedy. Held each October, the festival features shows at various venues across the city, including Acme Comedy Company and Sisyphus Brewing. With a focus on showcasing diverse voices and styles, this festival is a highlight of the Minneapolis comedy calendar.

• Minneapolis Sketch Comedy Festival
  Dedicated to sketch comedy, this festival celebrates scripted humor from some of the best sketch troupes in the Twin Cities and beyond. Held annually at The Brave New Workshop, the festival features performances that range from sharp political satire to absurdist comedy.

• Minnesota Fringe Festival
  While not exclusively a comedy festival, the Minnesota Fringe Festival is a massive event that includes a wide variety of comedic performances, from improv to stand-up to experimental comedy shows. It’s one of the largest performing arts festivals in the country, and the comedy acts are often some of the most popular events on the schedule.

• Twin Cities Improv Festival
  Held at the HUGE Improv Theater, this festival is a celebration of the best improv talent in the Twin Cities and beyond. With performers ranging from local improv groups to national acts, the Twin Cities Improv Festival has become one of the premier events for improv comedy lovers in Minneapolis.

• The Blackout Comedy Festival
  Focused on showcasing comedians of color, The Blackout Comedy Festival highlights diverse voices in the Minneapolis comedy scene. Featuring a mix of stand-up, sketch, and improv, the festival celebrates the contributions of BIPOC comedians to the local and national comedy landscape.

Minneapolis may be known for its cold winters, but its comedy scene is anything but chilly. From stand-up to sketch and improv, the city offers a wealth of comedic talent and opportunities for laughter, making it a perfect destination for comedy lovers. Whether you’re catching a local show or attending one of the city’s comedy festivals, you’re sure to leave with a smile.