Southport Comedy Festival returns for 2026

The 15th Annual Southport Comedy Festival, proudly presented in association with Halliwell Jones Kia Southport, returns to Victoria Park for its sixth consecutive year!

From 2nd–18th October, some of the biggest names in comedy will descend on Southport for 17 days of unforgettable laughter and entertainment.

Once again, all events will take place under canvas in a luxury heated and seated marquee, courtesy of Elite Events.

This year's unmissable line-up features comedy superstar Jason Manford, high-energy festival favourite Jason Byrne, ITV's The Chase star Paul Sinha, acclaimed observational Irish comic from Australia Jimeoin, the hilariously outrageous clairvoyant from Phoenix Nights Clinton Baptiste, German comedy ambassador Henning Wehn, king of the one-liners Gary Delaney, legendary improv duo Paul Merton and Suki Webster, BAFTA-winning comedian, author and former doctor Adam Kay, Taskmaster favourite Mike Wozniak, star of I’m a celebrity Seann Walsh and rapidly rising stars of TV Laura Smyth and Scott Bennett.

The festival also welcomes the return of UK comedy icon Mick Miller – the beloved "bald man with the long hair" who has entertained audiences for more than 40 years.

The festival is also committed to supporting the stars of tomorrow with the return of the Southport New Comedian of the Year Competition, proudly sponsored for a fifth year by Dragon Soop.

The triple headline Best of the Fest Comedy Night is back featuring the very best in stand up from the UK comedy circuit. Festival-goers can also rewind the clock and dance the night away as Comedy Bingo Goes Back to the 90s returns for another nostalgic night of fun.

The Southport Comedy Festival is proud to support charitable causes and this year's nominated charity is Bebe's Hive, who will be holding a prize raffle during the Comedy Bingo event.

All proceeds raised from the raffle will go directly towards supporting the incredible work of this wonderful local charity. Donation buckets will also be available at festival events throughout the 17-day programme.

Food and Drink will be provided by Award Winning local businesses Tik Taco and Elite Bars. Tik Taco will be serving up their delicious authentic Mexican street food throughout the event. While Elite Bars will be running a fully licensed bar, with snacks and hot drinks also available.

Southport Comedy Festival looks forward to welcoming people back for another fantastic year of comedy, entertainment, and laughter!

More information on tickets and the full line-up can be found at:  southportcomedyfestival.com