Olympia, Washington, the state’s capital and known for its rich political history, vibrant arts community, and eclectic culture, also has a growing stand-up comedy scene. Though smaller than nearby cities like Seattle, Olympia offers a relaxed, intimate setting for comedy lovers to enjoy a night of laughs. With its mix of local comedians, visiting performers, and supportive crowds, Olympia is carving out its own space in Washington’s comedy landscape. Whether you’re looking for stand-up at a local bar, an open mic to catch up-and-coming talent, or special comedy events, Olympia delivers comedy with its signature laid-back Pacific Northwest vibe.
Top Comedy Venues in Olympia
Comedy in the Box at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts: The Washington Center for the Performing Arts is one of Olympia’s premier entertainment venues, and it occasionally hosts stand-up comedy events under the “Comedy in the Box” banner. These shows offer an intimate experience, as the venue converts its black box theater into a cozy comedy club setting. With its mix of local and touring comedians, this venue provides a unique chance to see professional comedy in an intimate, polished environment.
Rhythm & Rye: Known primarily as a music venue, Rhythm & Rye also hosts regular comedy nights, featuring a mix of local stand-up comedians and touring acts. The venue’s casual, welcoming atmosphere and central location make it a great spot to enjoy a night of live comedy. With its laid-back vibe, Rhythm & Rye is a favorite among locals looking for a fun night out filled with laughs.
Olympia Eagles Ballroom: Located in downtown Olympia, the Eagles Ballroom hosts occasional comedy events, often featuring regional talent and comedy showcases. The venue’s vintage charm and spacious setting provide a unique backdrop for stand-up performances. Comedy nights at the Eagles Ballroom offer a more intimate setting, allowing audiences to connect with comedians in a relaxed atmosphere.
Le Voyeur Café and Lounge: This quirky, alternative venue in downtown Olympia is known for its indie vibe and eclectic events, including occasional stand-up comedy nights. With its artsy ambiance and underground feel, Le Voyeur offers a great setting for comedy fans who want to experience local talent in an intimate, offbeat environment. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy experimental and alternative comedy in a more casual setting.
Comedians to Watch in Olympia
Sam Miller: A native of Olympia, Sam Miller has been making waves in the Pacific Northwest comedy scene with his raw, honest humor and relatable storytelling. Miller’s material often touches on his personal experiences, including overcoming addiction, with a blend of heart and humor that resonates with audiences. His engaging stage presence and ability to find humor in difficult situations have made him a standout performer in Olympia and beyond.
Danielle K.L. Grégoire: Known for her inclusive and empowering approach to comedy, Danielle K.L. Grégoire has been a key figure in Olympia’s comedy community. She is the founder of The Comedy Womb, an initiative focused on creating safe spaces for comedians of all backgrounds to perform. Grégoire’s performances blend wit and insight, and her work to foster inclusive comedy spaces has made her a beloved figure in Olympia’s comedy scene.
Taylor Clark: Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Taylor Clark is a rising comedian known for his high-energy performances and sharp observational humor. Clark frequently performs across Washington, including at venues in Olympia. His ability to connect with audiences through his quick wit and relatable material has earned him a loyal following in the region.
Comedy Festivals in Olympia
The Northwest Comedy Fest: While primarily held in Seattle, the Northwest Comedy Fest often includes performances in Olympia as part of its regional lineup. The festival brings together some of the top comedic talent from across the Pacific Northwest, offering stand-up shows, improv, and sketch performances. For Olympia residents, the festival provides a chance to experience top-tier comedy without traveling far, and it helps showcase the city’s growing comedy scene.
Olympia Comedy Festival: Though smaller than festivals in nearby cities, the Olympia Comedy Festival celebrates local talent and offers a platform for both new and experienced comedians to perform. With shows spread across different venues in the city, the festival features a mix of stand-up, improv, and live performances. The Olympia Comedy Festival is a great way for comedy fans to support local performers and experience a wide range of comedic styles.
Comedy Nights and Open Mics in Olympia
Rhythm & Rye Comedy Open Mic: Rhythm & Rye regularly hosts open mic nights, giving aspiring comedians the opportunity to perform in front of a supportive audience. These open mics attract a mix of seasoned performers and newcomers, creating a welcoming space for comedians to test out new material. For those looking to experience the next wave of local comedy talent, Rhythm & Rye’s open mic nights offer a fun and relaxed setting.
Le Voyeur Comedy Open Mic: Known for its indie, underground vibe, Le Voyeur hosts occasional open mic nights where local comedians can try out fresh material in front of an artsy, open-minded audience. These events are perfect for those who enjoy alternative comedy and want to experience a more experimental side of Olympia’s comedy scene. With its quirky ambiance, Le Voyeur’s open mics are a must for comedy fans looking for something a bit different.
The Tipsy Zone at Pints Barn: Located just outside of Olympia in Tumwater, Pints Barn hosts The Tipsy Zone, a regular comedy open mic night. This event attracts comedians from across the region, providing a platform for both new and experienced performers to showcase their talent. The casual, pub atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy a drink and some laughs with friends while supporting local comedy.
Olympia’s stand-up comedy scene is growing fast, offering a variety of venues and events for comedy fans to enjoy. Whether you’re catching a polished performance at The Washington Center, discovering new talent at an open mic night, or experiencing a local comedy festival, Olympia has plenty to offer for a night of laughs. With its laid-back atmosphere, creative community, and supportive audiences, the city is quickly becoming a key destination for stand-up comedy in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Olympia’s comedy scene provides a fun, welcoming space to enjoy some of the best humor the region has to offer.