Thunder Bay, ON

Thunder Bay, Ontario, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior, is known for its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and vibrant arts community. In recent years, Thunder Bay has also built a reputation as a growing hub for live entertainment, particularly stand-up comedy. With its laid-back vibe and supportive local audience, the city's comedy scene offers a mix of intimate performances by local talent and shows featuring touring comedians from across Canada. Whether you’re a Thunder Bay resident or just visiting, the city’s comedy scene offers plenty of laughs and memorable nights out in a welcoming and friendly environment.

Top Comedy Venues in Thunder Bay

• Crickets Comedy Club: As Thunder Bay’s premier comedy venue, Crickets Comedy Club is at the heart of the city’s stand-up scene. Located in downtown Thunder Bay, Crickets regularly hosts top comedians from across Canada as well as local talent. Known for its intimate setting and professional atmosphere, the club provides a perfect space for comedy lovers to enjoy a night of laughter. Crickets Comedy Club offers both weekend headliner shows and open mic nights, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience live stand-up in Thunder Bay. With its strong lineups and lively crowds, Crickets has become the go-to spot for comedy in the city.

• Campfire Comedy at The Foundry: Primarily known as a live music venue, The Foundry also hosts comedy nights, called Campfire Comedy, featuring both local comedians and touring acts. The venue’s casual and cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to catch a more laid-back comedy show. With its popular pub setting and great food and drinks, The Foundry’s comedy nights offer a fun, relaxed way to enjoy stand-up in Thunder Bay.

Comedians to Watch in Thunder Bay

• Ryan McMahon: A well-known comedian in Canada, Ryan McMahon, originally from the nearby community of Fort Frances, regularly performs in Thunder Bay and across the country. McMahon is known for his sharp, insightful humor that often explores themes of Indigenous culture and social issues. His blend of storytelling and witty commentary has made him a favorite among Thunder Bay audiences. Whether he’s performing at Crickets Comedy Club or at special events, McMahon’s engaging performances always resonate with local crowds.

• Mike Filipowich: A rising star in the Ontario comedy scene, Mike Filipowich brings his unique blend of dark humor and clever observations to the stage. Performing regularly at Crickets Comedy Club, Filipowich’s witty delivery and offbeat style have quickly earned him a loyal following in Thunder Bay. His ability to tackle a wide range of topics with both sharpness and charm makes him a comedian to watch in the city’s comedy circuit.

• Stefanie Davis: Based in Thunder Bay, Stefanie Davis is a local comedian whose honest, relatable humor has made her a standout in the city’s growing comedy scene. Davis frequently performs at open mic nights at Crickets Comedy Club and other venues across the region, using her sharp wit and engaging storytelling to connect with audiences. Her ability to blend personal experiences with observational humor makes her one of the most promising comedians in Thunder Bay.

Comedy Festivals in Thunder Bay

• Thunder Bay Comedy Festival: A highlight of the city’s entertainment calendar, the Thunder Bay Comedy Festival brings together top comedic talent from across Ontario and beyond. Hosted at various venues, including Crickets Comedy Club, the festival features a wide range of comedic styles, from stand-up to improv and sketch comedy. The Thunder Bay Comedy Festival showcases both established performers and emerging talent, providing comedy lovers with a full weekend of laughs in the heart of the city.

• Northern Ontario Comedy Showcase: While not a full festival, the Northern Ontario Comedy Showcase is an annual event that highlights the best talent from across the region. Hosted at venues like Crickets Comedy Club and The Foundry, the showcase features performances from some of the most talented comedians in Northern Ontario, offering local audiences a chance to enjoy high-quality stand-up close to home. With its focus on supporting local comedians, the Northern Ontario Comedy Showcase is a key part of Thunder Bay’s comedy scene.

Thunder Bay’s stand-up comedy scene is growing fast, with Crickets Comedy Club leading the way as the city’s premier venue for live stand-up. Whether you’re catching a headlining act, enjoying an open mic night, or attending the Thunder Bay Comedy Festival, the city offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy stand-up comedy in a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. With its strong community support and increasing number of shows, Thunder Bay is quickly becoming a hub for comedy in Northern Ontario. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you're sure to find a night of laughs in this vibrant city.