Comedy in Portland
Check out plenty of in-demand comedians in a classic format for sidesplitting humor — live and in person.
Eric Gold
With guest stars like Tim Robbins, Steve Buscemi and Jeff Goldblum, Portlandia provided a popular stage for poking fun at the Rose City’s quirky side. But plenty of in-demand comedians still prefer a more classic format for sidesplitting humor — live and in person. With plentiful open mic nights across the city to choose from, along with hilarious annual comedy festivals, there’s always something funny happening in Portland. Read on to learn more about the city’s vibrant comedy scene, then check out our events calendar to discover even more things to on your next trip to Portland.
Helium
In the Central Eastside district, Helium delivers big-name talent like Saturday Night Live alumni Kevin Nealon and Jon Lovitz, Louie guest star Chelsea Peretti, Patton Oswalt, Marc Maron and many others. The venue, which features two full bars in addition to the main showroom, is known for its intimate setting. (Spectators are no more than 60 feet from performers.) No wonder Helium cultivates a respectful audience that is often rewarded with post-show meet-and-greets with the comics.
Kickstand Comedy
Nonprofit Kickstand Comedy got its start in the basement of a bike shop, then spent some time tucked above the Siren Theater before taking over the former home of the Brody Theater in 2019. Recognized by Paste Magazine as one of the “Country’s Best Improv Theaters,” Kickstand produces all-ages, community-based shows, flagship weekend showcases, community events and comedy classes.
Harvey’s Comedy Club
Nearby, Harvey’s Comedy Club has been a Portland comedy mainstay for 20 years. With dinner and comedy show packages, you can make a night of it and enjoy national headliners and touring comedy acts at the iconic club Wednesday through Sunday nights.
ComedySportz
Looking to participate? Head to ComedySportz in Northwest Portland, which has been a longtime favorite of local comedy-lovers.
Curious Comedy Theater
The not-for-profit, volunteer-managed Curious Comedy Theater in Northeast Portland hosts community events to “improve the lives of kids, adults and seniors through the art of comedy.”
Funhouse Lounge
Head to Southeast Portland and you’ll find Funhouse Lounge, where cocktails, comedy, theater and improv converge against a background of clown-themed decor.
All Jane Comedy Festival
Nightly live comedy
Caught the comedy bug? Head to these open mic nights around Portland to try out your own material:
- Tuesday: Helium, Lamp Tavern
- Wednesday: Funhouse Lounge
- Friday: Funhouse Lounge
- Sunday: Kelly’s Olympian, Alberta Street Pub
Upcoming Comedy Shows
Get your laugh on with these upcoming comedy acts in Portland.
The Curious Cabaret
The Curious Cabaret – A Riotous Vaudeville Revue is a monthly variety show hosted by Portland’s 20-time award winning physical comedy duo, A Little Bit Off. The show brings you the absolute best in top-notch local talent, with acts ranging from acrobatics and dance, to magic and juggling, with a whole lot of comedy in…
PLOW! Love At First Fight
Portland Legends of Wrestling! The only wrestling promotion in Portland that lost its license and refused to stop! Featuring tests of wits and skill (and improvised comedy) with absolutely NO actual wrestling (or we will be arrested).
NW Black Comedy Festival
The NW Black Comedy Festival returns in 2020 with four days of laughter at Harvey’s Comedy Club in Northwest Portland, featuring Black comics from the Northwest and beyond. This festival also includes popular local showcases spotlighting Portland’s Black stand-up comics. There’ll be lineups from Minority Retort and The Blackonteurs, as well as an all-women show,…
The Big One Comedy Show
Earth-shattering stand-up comedy from the PNW’s top women and non-binary comics abound during Trash Amp Productions’ weekly comedy show at Southwest Portland’s Etc…Eatery. Whether you’re looking for an affordable date night or just need a silly comedy break from life, this show bursts with warmth, inclusive art and genuine laughter.
Becky with the Good Jokes
Becky with the Good Jokes returns to the Funhouse Lounge stage! Spectacular comedians. Runner-Up for Best Comedy Event in the Willamette Week’s ‘Best of Portland’, Becky with the Good Jokes is a one-in-a-million comedy show which cannot be described in words, you just have to experience it. Doors open at 9:30pm, show starts at 10pm….
The Plastic Weather Circus Spectacular
Local weirdos Plastic Weather have gone and made a circus, in the tradition of the Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus, they present to you: The Plastic Weather Circus Spectacular. Featuring musical performances from Plastic Weather, Seance Crasher and Internet Beef. In the spirit of variety, there will also be the comedy stylings of Jay…
Miz Cracker: American Woman
American Woman, a comedy spectacular that asks: what does it mean to be a woman in America? As a lady raised by—and always surrounded by—strong female figures, Cracker cracks jokes and performs lip syncs about everything from beauty to birth control. But behind the comedy, there’s an urgent call for equal rights in a country…