Montreal, QC

Montreal, Quebec, is often hailed as the comedy capital of Canada, if not the world. Home to the world-renowned Just for Laughs Festival, the city has a rich history of stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy. Montreal’s comedy culture is vibrant and diverse, drawing both French and English-speaking performers and audiences. Whether you’re a fan of big-name headliners or prefer discovering new talent, Montreal’s comedy scene has something for everyone.

Top Comedy Clubs in Montreal

1. The Comedy Nest
Located in downtown Montreal, The Comedy Nest is one of the city’s most famous comedy venues. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it regularly hosts performances by local comedians, international headliners, and surprise guests. The Comedy Nest is a great spot to catch both established acts and up-and-coming talent. It's also known for open mic nights, making it a go-to destination for comedy lovers who want a mix of seasoned performers and new faces.

2. Yuk Yuk’s Montreal
Part of the well-known Canadian Yuk Yuk’s comedy chain, this Montreal location is a staple for live stand-up comedy in the city. It features a range of comedians from across the country, providing a platform for local comedians while also bringing in touring talent. Yuk Yuk’s Montreal is famous for its relaxed vibe and guaranteed laughs, whether it's at their regular shows or special events.

3. Le Bordel Comédie Club
For fans of French-language comedy, Le Bordel Comédie Club is the premier venue in Montreal. Located in the heart of the Plateau Mont-Royal, this small, intimate club hosts nightly shows featuring Quebec’s top comedians. The venue’s reputation for high-quality performances and a packed house ensures a lively atmosphere for French-speaking comedy fans.

Comedians to Watch in Montreal

Sugar Sammy
Born and raised in Montreal, Sugar Sammy is a bilingual comedian who performs in English and French, often blending both languages in his shows. He’s gained international acclaim for his sharp wit, insightful social commentary, and ability to bridge cultural divides. His performances are full of quick, observational humor, often centered on cultural differences and the experience of being a Montrealer. He has sold out shows around the world but continues to be a beloved figure in his hometown.

Guillaume Wagner
A major name in Quebec’s French-language comedy scene, Guillaume Wagner is known for his edgy humor and sharp critique of social and political issues. His bold style has made him a standout performer across Quebec, and his performances at Le Bordel Comédie Club are always highly anticipated. Wagner’s ability to challenge societal norms while still being funny has earned him a loyal following.

Jess Salomon
Montreal-born Jess Salomon is a rising star in the English-language comedy scene. Known for her laid-back style and quick, dry humor, Salomon often draws from her unique background as a former war crimes lawyer turned comedian. Her comedy touches on a range of topics, from politics to personal stories, and she has performed at major festivals like Just for Laughs.

Comedy Festivals in Montreal

Just for Laughs Festival
The crown jewel of Montreal’s comedy scene, the Just for Laughs Festival is the largest international comedy festival in the world. Held annually in July, the festival brings together the biggest names in comedy from around the globe. From stand-up performances to sketch comedy, improv, and special galas, Just for Laughs has something for every comedy fan. The festival also features street performances, outdoor shows, and events across the city, turning Montreal into a comedy mecca for nearly a month. Many top comedians, including Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer, and Dave Chappelle, have graced the festival’s stages.

Montreal Sketchfest
This annual festival is a celebration of sketch comedy, featuring troupes from Montreal and beyond. Held every spring, Montreal Sketchfest showcases a wide variety of sketch acts, ranging from absurdist humor to character-driven comedy. It’s an excellent opportunity to see some of the freshest and most creative comedians in the city, many of whom also perform regularly at venues like The Comedy Nest.

Zoofest
A sister festival to Just for Laughs, Zoofest takes place every summer and focuses on up-and-coming talent and alternative comedy. The festival features a mix of stand-up, improv, storytelling, and theatre, providing a platform for comedians looking to experiment with different forms of humor. Zoofest is an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the edgier side of comedy and discover fresh talent in the Montreal comedy scene.

Montreal’s comedy scene is a dynamic mix of bilingual humor, international talent, and homegrown comedians. Whether you’re catching a show at The Comedy Nest, laughing along with Sugar Sammy, or enjoying the world-famous Just for Laughs Festival, Montreal offers an unparalleled comedy experience. The city continues to be a global leader in comedy, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves to laugh.