LaughFest

Yes! LaughFest 2024 takes place March 6-10. As in years past, it will feature stand-up, improv, showcases and a variety of other seriously funny stuff.

In addition to brand-new slate of comedy headliners every year, LaughFest is always changing something up. This year, it’s hosting a What Makes You Smile Art Exhibit for the first time. West Michigan students were asked to think about what makes them smile and write or illustrate it on a LaughFest smile card. These smiles will be on display at the Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids clubhouse for the duration of the festival.

There’s also a first-time presentation of Mel Brook’s Silent Movie accompanied by a live organist at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (March 8) and a new musical improv show, In the Key of Comedy, hosted by The Comedy Project (also March 8).

LaughFest runs for five days – every one of them jam-packed with events and activities for all ages. In terms of longevity, 2024 is the 14^th year of the event.

LaughFest events and activities take place at venues throughout Grand Rapids, including year-round comedy destinations The Comedy Project, Dr. Grins Comedy Club, Midtown at Studio Park, Golden Age at Creston Brewery, Spectrum Entertainment Complex and Wealthy Theatre. Additional events will be held in Lowell and at Gun Lake Casino in Wayland (both about 20 minutes from downtown GR).

This year’s lineup includes nationally known comedians Tammy Pescatelli (March 7 & 8), Josh Johnson (March 8 & 9), Piff the Magic Dragon (March 8), Demetri Martin (March 9) and Tom Papa, who will headline the Red Door Gala fundraiser on March 14.  

LaughFest also includes fun-filled events and shows like LaughFest: Night at the Museum (March 6), LaughFest Trivia Night of Stars (March 6), Clean Comedy Showcase & Dinner (March 7, 8 & 9), KaraJOKEe (March 8), Family Improv (March 9) and The Dirty Show (March 9). Local stand-up comedians and improv groups on the schedule, too.

Visit the LaughFest website for dates and details on these shows and many more.

One of the best things about LaughFest is the opportunity to take part in the proceedings. Gather your squad of six to compete against local media personalities at the LaughFest Trivia Night of Stars. Attend the Family Improv Workshop with your loved ones. Let your kids take the mic for Kids Joke Time. Make some joyful noise at Drums for All! with Josh Dunigan (March 6 & 9).

The Laughter Rx Symposium is a conference that offers continuing education credit opportunities for healthcare professionals and social workers. It is available in a hybrid format with in-person and virtual attendance options. It will take place March 8 this year.

Following the festival on March 14, Gilda’s Club will host its annual Red Door Gala at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The Red Door Gala is a fundraiser that celebrates the thousands of lives impacted by Gilda’s Club and provides entertainment from a nationally known comic talent. This year’s entertainer is Tom Papa, star of five Netflix stand-up specials and host of the Breaking Bad with Tom Papa podcast.

LaughFest includes shows and activities for all ages, including a Clean Comedy Showcase featuring comedians pre-selected for their unique ability to bring laughs without vulgarity. LaughFest provides a Content Guidance Key for all its events, rating them as Family Friendly, Clean Adult Laughs or Anything Goes! to help you decide about the entertainment you want to experience.

LaughFest offers a range of ticketed and free events. Free events include The Cancer Survivor Showcase (March 6), Drums for All! (March 6 & 9), Kids Joke Time Holland (March 9), Family Improv (March 9), Cooking and Comedy (March 10), and Sunday Night Funnies (March 10). Tickets for ticketed events may be purchased at the LaughFest website or by searching LaughFest at ticketmaster.com. It’s a good idea to buy tickets early because many events sell out.

Yes! Volunteers serve in various roles, from welcoming attendees, providing directions, and answering questions on the Smile Team to serving on special teams that oversee merchandise, transportation, photography, and more. Anyone 16 years old or older can volunteer. 

If you’re interested in volunteering, visit the festival’s website or email Volunteer Manager Katie Cross.

The LaughFest website includes a page on parking and mobility options, including a venue accessibility guide.

Follow LaughFest on social (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and sign up for email updates at the LaughFest website (scroll to the bottom of the page).