Festival
The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival is presented by the National Comedy Center, the nation’s official cultural institution dedicated to comedy, and embodies Lucille Ball’s vision for her hometown — Jamestown, New York, to be a destination for the celebration of the comedic arts and to showcase new comedic talent from around the country. The festival boasts over 50 live events and attracts over 15,000 attendees annually from nearly every state in the country, who come together to share laughter while honoring the craft and contributors on stage at venues throughout Jamestown, including the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum.
Previous Festival headliners have included Jerry Seinfeld, Trevor Noah, Nate Bargatze, Lily Tomlin, John Mulaney, Taylor Tomlinson, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Jeff Foxworthy, Nicole Byer, Jay Leno, Margaret Cho, Amy Schumer, Sebastian Maniscalco, W. Kamau Bell, David Spade, Jim Gaffigan, Paula Poundstone, Joan Rivers, Kevin Nealon, The Smothers Brothers, and more than 300 comedic artists.
The Festival also includes performances in smaller theater settings and late-night showcases featuring up-and-coming comedians from across the country, block parties, live music, kids’ comedy shows and more. Special “Lucy Legacy” events take place throughout the week at various locations around Jamestown.
Historically, the Festival takes place over four days in early August to coincide with Lucille Ball’s birthday on August 6. However, dates may shift depending on the year and availability of headlining acts.
Check back for Festival updates and headliner announcements.
Want First Chance at Tickets for Festival?
Become a Member and receive access to the pre-sale, as well as unlimited admission to the National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum for 12 months. Members also get discounts on merchandise and retail items at both museum stores (on-premise and online).
Interested in becoming a Lucille Ball Comedy Festival Sponsor? Contact our Sponsorship Team at [email protected] to explore sponsor packages and benefits.