For many people, comedy shows are no laughing matter. They’re the perfect opportunity to see some of the best comedians in the world, and you want to find one that’s just right for you.
With our experience in event haulage, we know a thing or two about a great comedy show.
Whether you want to see some old favourites or you’re planning to put your own show on the road, we’ve rounded up some of the best comedy events Europe has to offer.
Mount Olymprov
Tuesday 4th–Saturday 8th June 2019
If you’d like some sunshine with your silliness, you may want to consider Mount Olymprov.
This Greek comedy festival, now in its fourth year, takes place at the Alpha.Idea theatre in downtown Athens.
This year’s show features performers from across the globe; countries as diverse as Greece, Bulgaria, Australia and Ireland are all represented in this year’s lineup.
There’s an impressive selection of shows to look forward to.
The Bat! is a 12-person improv show that takes place entirely in the dark, while Just Play! takes inspiration from objects borrowed from the audience. Meanwhile, Connected—by The Challengers—aims to highlight the connections that bind all of us together.
If you fancy having a go at improv yourself, a dozen different instructors are available for coaching sessions during the festival itself.
Alternatively, if you’re ready to take a break from the improv, join the other festivalgoers on a trip to the island of Agistri. With plenty of plantlife, sandy beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to unwind.
Read more about the show here.
The Edinburgh Fringe
Friday 2nd–Monday 26th August 2019
This annual event bills itself as the single biggest celebration of arts and culture on the planet.
It runs every August for three weeks in Scotland’s capital, with thousands of performers from around the world taking part.
As you might expect the Edinburgh Fringe has a diverse range of shows to enjoy, including dance, opera and standup events.
However, the Fringe has a particular reputation for quality comedy shows, with plenty of top talent for patrons to choose from
Old favourites like Al Murray, Reginald D Hunter and Milton Jones are all attending this year’s Fringe, as well as newer faces like Henning Wehn & Adam Kay.
If you want to try something a little different, there are plenty of other options to choose from; shows such as Improvabunga! offer a more unpredictable comedy experience, while others like Daliso Chaponda look at the weird world of disgraced historical figures.
Whatever your tastes, there’s something for everyone to look forward to!
For a wider look at the wonders of the Edinburgh Fringe, check out the official website.
Barcelona Improv Group
Monday 4th–Sunday 10th November 2019
Looking for something surprising and unexpected? Look no further; this festival celebrates improv comedy in all its shapes.
The Barcelona Improv Group takes suggestions from their audience to create a freeform, one-of-a-kind experience. Their work takes theatrical improv to a new level, with the joy of discovery and emotional depth its primary motivation.
The Big If 6 festival, hosted by the group, offers improv shows and workshops for all improv fans.
Although this year’s lineup has yet to be announced, last year’s festival featured a diverse selection of performers.
Highlights included British musical soloist Phil Lunn, London long form group “Do Not Adjust Your Stage”, and international group “True Story”.
There will also be a comprehensive programme of workshops if you fancy a go at improv yourself.
To learn more about the Improv Group, and get the latest updates on this year’s show, go to the official website.
Utrecht International Comedy Festival
Friday 6–Saturday 7th August 2020
This event is the biggest comedy festival in The Netherlands, attracting comedians from several different countries.
Next year’s show will mark its eighth year in operation, and there’s plenty for comedy fans to enjoy.
Comedians at the festival come from places like The Netherlands, Belgium, Japan, the UK and Canada.
This ensures there’s plenty to offer both foreign visitors and local comedy enthusiasts. 2019’s show featured local talent like Berit Companjen, Yunus Aktas and Patrick Meijer, while the likes of Tamar Broadbent, Lauren Pattison and Maisie Adam represented the UK.
If you’ve got a hunger for some good food alongside your comedy, have no fear; the festival’s Food Street offers a variety of food trucks with international cuisine to savour!
For more details on next year’s show, visit the official website.
Leicester Comedy Festival
Wednesday 5- Sunday 23rd February 2020
If Edinburgh isn’t too practical for you, you might want to consider the Leicester Comedy Festival instead.
Founded in 1994, the festival celebrates British comedy while supporting new talent.
The festival has only gone from strength to strength since then; this year’s show ran for 19 days, and featured over 870 events across 72 venues.
Some huge names made an appearance at the festival, too; stars like Jo Brand, Johnny Vegas, and Zoe Lyons were in attendance, as well as the likes of Sarah Millican, Jason Manford and Rich Hall.
If you’re looking for something more family-friendly, 2019 saw the launch of the first UK Kids’ Comedy Festival. This was a programme of shows, workshops and events aimed at children 12 and under.
Although 2019’s show has come to a close, 2020’s show is still on the horizon. Look for more information about the show at the official website.
Altitude Festival
April 2020
This unusual festival takes place at the Mayrhofen Ski Resort in Austria.
Co-founded by Marcus Brigstocke (who’s appeared on QI, The Now Show and Live at the Apollo) and Andrew Maxwell (Mock the Week, Love Island), it’s a great way to enjoy some top comedy in truly gorgeous surroundings.
Brigstocke and Maxwell were in attendance at this year’s show, and joined by top comedians like Terry Alderton and Zoe Lyons.
There was also plenty of new talent on display like former bouncer Emmanuel Sonubi, and Altitude newcomers Naz Osmanoglu and Abigoliah Schamaun.
And with an extensive ski area surrounding the festival, this is one event that’s tough to beat!
For the latest information on this festival, visit the official Altitude Festival website.
Eastern European Comedy Festival
Various shows throughout the year
This London festival is dedicated to comedic talent from across Eastern Europe.
Consisting of several smaller shows throughout the year, each one offers a diverse cross-section of European talent.
Countries as diverse as Turkey, Finland, Serbia, Italy and Croatia are all represented, making this an excellent way to expand your comedy palate.
Comedy Borsch events bring together about half a dozen comics from across Eastern Europe, all of which perform in English for your benefit.
However, last year’s festival boasted several solo outings as well.
Romanian standup Victor Pãtrãşcan ruminated on nationality, immigration and half a dozen other topics, while Radu Isac took things in a silly direction with the show “Good Excuses for Sociopaths”.
2020 shows are due to be announced, but you can count on next year’s show being as dynamic and diverse as the last one. For further details, visit the official site here.
Has this comedy festival roundup tickled your funny bone?
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