Here’s why Winnipeg Comedy Festival might be your best trip yet.
I first attended the Winnipeg Comedy Festival 10 years ago, and I haven’t missed a year since. There’s just something about watching a packed room erupt with laughter and seeing stand-up legends share the stage with rising local comics.
For a whole week every spring, I get to enjoy all types of comedy sets—from polished theater performances to intimate pub sets, improv battles, and live podcast recordings.
So, if you’re planning to go for the first time (or maybe second or third), here’s your ultimate guide to making the most out of your Winnipeg Comedy Festival.
What is the Winnipeg Comedy Festival?
The Winnipeg Comedy Festival (WCF) is an annual celebration of stand-up, sketch, and improv comedy, taking place across various venues in Winnipeg. It started in 2002 and has now grown into one of Canada’s top comedy festivals.
When is the Winnipeg Comedy Festival held?
The Winnipeg Comedy Festival runs for one week each spring, from late April to early May. Midweek evenings, like Wednesday to Friday nights, offer the best mix of lively shows, patio events, and smaller crowds compared to weekends.
Where does the Winnipeg Comedy Festival take place?
The Winnipeg Comedy Festival takes place at Winnipeg downtown venues, featuring shows in theaters, clubs, and art centers. Key spots include the Gas Station Arts Centre, Burton Cummings Theatre, and Jubilee Place.
Winnipeg Comedy Festival Ticket Information
Where to Buy Winnipeg Comedy Festival Tickets
You can buy tickets for the WCF via 3Common, a local ticketing service for venues without Ticketmaster contracts. For shows held at the Burton Cummings Theatre, tickets are sold through Ticketmaster.
When to buy Winnipeg Comedy Festival Tickets
Winnipeg Comedy Festival tickets typically go on sale 6 to 12 months in advance—check the official WCF website for announcements. They tend to sell out fast, so it’s smart to grab yours early.
If you run into issues with discount codes, just remember to click ”unlock” on the purchase page before entering your code. If you’re still having issues, call (204) 284-9477 or email [email protected].
How much are Winnipeg Comedy Festival tickets?
WCF general admission tickets cost around $112 per day, with some passes starting at around $78. For an upgraded experience, VIP packages can go as high as $1256, offering premium seating, exclusive access, and special perks.
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to enjoy the laughs, trust me, festival passes are the way to go. And if you’re lucky, you can catch the occasional pay-as-you-can show.
Things to Do During the Winnipeg Comedy Festival
Support emerging & established stand-up comics
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
One of the best parts of the festival is catching stand-up shows that feature a mix of emerging and well-known comedians.
I love watching raw, honest, and experimental sets from up-and-coming comics. Honestly, it’s exciting to see newer comics finding their voice, and then months later, you see them blow up on social media.
And of course, you can’t go wrong with watching polished, seasoned performers like Nikki Payne or Howie Miller. Even though you already know their style, they still manage to surprise you with fresh jokes in every performance.
Check out an improv show
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
If you’re used to stand-up, seeing improv shows will be so refreshing for you. I love watching groups like Hot Thespian Action or known comics like Alex Forman create hilarious scenes completely out of audience suggestions on the spot.
In a nutshell, improv shows at WCF are unpredictable and energizing, and you’ll feel part of the show as performers bounce ideas off the crowd.
Attend a live podcast recording
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
Many comedians record their podcasts live during the festival, giving fans the chance to see or hear them unfiltered and unedited. Trust me, it’s a totally different vibe watching your favorite comic interact with a live audience compared to listening at home.
These recordings often include bonus content, audience questions, or surprise guest appearances, which is pretty cool.
Go to a workshop or a comedy talk
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
Some years, the festival offers workshops or panels where comedians share insights about the industry, writing, and performance. These are perfect if you’re an aspiring comic or just a fan who wants to deepen your appreciation of comedy.
During these meetings, you’ll get a chance to hear directly from professionals about their creative processes, challenges, and success stories—definitely inspiring!
Witness the Great Patio Showdown
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
This awesome outdoor event pits comedians against each other to win the crowd’s vote in a casual patio setting. It’s usually held in the early evenings, making it a perfect pre-show hangout.
With Winnipeg’s spring weather, being outside with a dose of comedy feels extra refreshing. Don’t forget to fully charge your phone—you’ll want to rewatch snippets of the fun event at home.
Watch Mega Show tapings
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
Mega Shows are big productions during WCF that are filmed for national TV broadcasts. They bring together top comics in one expertly produced showcase.
Being in the live audience while cameras roll is exciting and gives you a chance to spot yourself on TV later. Plus, the production value makes for an unforgettable show experience—something you’ll remember for years to come!
Keep an eye out for WCF special events
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
Don’t miss the mini-special events happening throughout the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. There are often free patio sessions with music by DJs like DJ JPQ, creating a cool hangout spot for all ages before shows begin.
You’ll also find beer tasting events hosted by local breweries—you can sample new brews while enjoying the festival vibe. In addition to comedy, expect live musical performances during the week-long event.
Volunteer at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival
– Media credit: wpgcomfest
Volunteering at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival is a fun way to be part of the action while supporting the city’s arts scene. Plus, if you’re a budding comic yourself, the behind-the-scenes experiences would be invaluable.
The festival is always looking for volunteers, with roles like Audience Ambassador, where you welcome guests, help them find seats, tear tickets, and answer questions.
Other positions include Box Office Attendant, handling tickets and redemptions, and Patio Host for greeting patrons outdoors and managing seating. You can also be an Airport Ambassador, where you promote the festival at the airport.
If you’re interested, email [email protected].
Where to Eat and Drink During the Winnipeg Comedy Festival
Clementine Cafe
– Media credit: clementine.winnipeg
Website: http://clementinewinnipeg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clementine.winnipeg/
Address: 123 Princess St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 2 PM
Contact: (204) 942-9497
Clementine Cafe is the perfect spot to chow down before a Mega Show since it’s only three minutes away from the Burton Cummings Theatre. Even Tamara Shevon, a Toronto-based comic, loves hitting it up whenever she’s in town for the WCF.
My favorite dish is the Fried Chicken on Toast—the batter is super crunchy, paired with hot honey for that perfect sweet, spicy combo. And to get into the comedy party mood, you can wash down your meal with one of their amazing breakfast cocktails.
Burrito Del Rio
– Media credit: burritodelrio
Website: https://burritodelrio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burritodelrio/
Address: 8-433 River Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (204) 415-5600
If you’re catching a show at the Gas Station Arts Centre, Burrito Del Rio is right next door. This no-frills, counter-serve Mexican spot serves up burritos, tacos, and other classic eats with fast service and friendly (sometimes kooky, sombrero-wearing) staff.
They’re known for having the best burritos in town—huge, flavorful, and filling. I’m kind of diggin’ the Burrito Camarones (shrimp burrito), but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.
There’s indoor seating plus a patio area out front on River Avenue. Imagine sipping sangria while listening to great music before hitting an improv show—perfect chill vibes.
Hargrave St. Market
– Media credit: hargravestmarket
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hargravestmarket/
Address: 8-433 River Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (204) 415-5600
If you’re looking for a great spot to fuel up during the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, Hargrave St. Market is the place to go. This upscale food hall is located on the second floor of True North Square and offers a variety of eateries, plus a bar and brewery.
My favorite is their wide selection of pizza (especially the cheese!), with gluten-free and vegan options available. Other food options include tacos, ramen, burgers, coffee, and yummy craft cocktails.
The space itself is bright and welcoming, with beautiful big windows, plenty of plants, and tons of seating. This is definitely a great home base to chill in before braving the WCF crowds.
Where to Stay near the Winnipeg Comedy Festival
Fairmont Winnipeg
– Media credit: lostingrain.ca
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/winnipeg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairmontwinnipeg/
Address: 2 Lombard Place
Hours: Check-in time: 4:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (204) 957-1350
Fairmont Winnipeg is only a 10-minute walk away from the Burton Cummings Theatre, so you’re never far from your next Mega Show during the WCF.
If there’s one word to describe the rooms, it’s comfortable. After a day of laughing and drinking, you can binge-watch on the 42-inch HDTV, soak in the hot tub, or call up for some 24/7 room service eats.
And if you want to splurge (or need to buy essentials)? Saunter through the hotel’s direct access to Winnipeg’s underground shopping destination.
The Inn at the Forks
– Media credit: innattheforks
Website: https://www.innforks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innattheforks/
Address: 75 Forks Market Rd
Hours: Check-in time: 3:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (204) 942-6555
The Inn at the Forks is only a 9-minute drive from the Gas Station Arts Centre and just a couple of minutes from The Forks Market, giving you plenty of options during the WCF.
Its stylish rooms come with free WiFi, flat screen TVs, and iPod docks. You can upgrade rooms with free bottled water, wet bars, Bose stereos, sitting areas with pull-out sofas, and even fireplaces.
After a day of comedy shows, unwind with body scrubs and massages at the on-site spa. Afterward, treat yourself to a delicious meal at SMITH Restaurant.