Get Ready for the Unmissable Glasgow Comedy Festival 2026!

Get ready, folks! The Glasgow Comedy Festival is back for 2026, and it looks like it's going to be a cracker. From big names to up-and-coming stars, there's a bit of everything lined up. We're talking musicals, drag acts, and of course, loads of stand-up. It’s a great chance to see some top talent right here in Glasgow.

Key Takeaways

• The Glasgow Comedy Festival 2026 promises a wide array of comedic talent, from established stars to new faces.

• Catch international acts like Rob Beckett and Aisling Bea, alongside homegrown favourites.

• The festival features a diverse range of shows, including musicals like 'Priscilla Queen Of The Desert' and drag performances.

• Don't miss the GICF Comedy Gala at the King's Theatre, showcasing the festival's best and presenting the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award.

• From stand-up specials by Tom Davis and Bridget Christie to unique shows like 'Horrible Histories - The Concert', there's something for every sense of humour.

Glasgow Comedy Festival Kicks Off

Get ready, folks, because the Glasgow International Comedy Festival is back and set to take over the city from March 11th to March 29th, 2026! This year's festival promises a fantastic mix of big names and rising stars, all ready to make you laugh across various venues. It's shaping up to be a real treat for comedy lovers.

Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical Arrives

Prepare for a dazzling spectacle as 'Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical' makes its way to the King's Theatre. Expect plenty of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable tunes as this beloved show hits the Glasgow stage.

Kesha Takes The Stage

Pop sensation Kesha is set to light up the OVO Hydro on March 11th. She'll be performing her iconic hits, so get ready to sing along to all those chart-toppers. It's going to be a high-energy night for sure.

QUEENZ: Drag Me to the Disco!

For a night of pure, unadulterated fun, don't miss 'QUEENZ: Drag Me to the Disco!'. This show promises live vocals, incredible drag performances, and a disco atmosphere that'll have you dancing the night away. It's all happening on March 11th.

The festival really kicks off with a bang, offering a diverse range of entertainment right from the start. Whether you're into musicals, pop icons, or drag extravaganzas, there's something to get everyone excited.

Stand-Up Stars Shine Bright

Get ready for some serious laughs as the Glasgow Comedy Festival 2026 brings a fantastic array of stand-up talent to the city. This year’s festival is packed with comedians who are masters of their craft, ready to deliver punchlines that’ll have you in stitches. Prepare for an unforgettable experience with some of the UK's funniest people.

Connor Burns: Gallus

Connor Burns is back with his show 'Gallus', and if you've caught him before, you know what to expect: sharp observations and a delivery that’s pure Glasgow. He’s known for his relatable material that often pokes fun at everyday life, making him a firm favourite.

Tom Davis: Spudgun

Tom Davis is bringing his show 'Spudgun' to the festival, and it’s set to be a high-energy performance. Davis has a knack for creating characters and stories that are both hilarious and surprisingly touching. His stage presence is electric, and he really knows how to work a crowd.

Bridget Christie: Jacket Potato Pizza

Bridget Christie is renowned for her unique brand of surreal and intelligent comedy. In 'Jacket Potato Pizza', she tackles a range of topics with her signature wit and slightly off-kilter perspective. Expect the unexpected and a lot of thoughtful chuckles.

Mark Simmons: Jest to Impress

Mark Simmons is a comedian who consistently delivers. His show 'Jest to Impress' is all about sharp one-liners and clever observations. He’s a master of the quick gag, making his sets incredibly fast-paced and funny. You can catch some of the best stand-up at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival.

The festival is a brilliant showcase for both established names and rising stars, offering a diverse range of comedic styles. It’s a chance to see comedians at the top of their game, trying out new material and honing their craft in front of a live audience.

More Comedy Gems to Discover

Beyond the big names, the Glasgow International Comedy Festival 2026 is packed with even more brilliant acts that you won't want to miss. It's always worth digging a little deeper to find those hidden treasures, and this year is no exception. We've got some fantastic shows lined up that promise a great night out.

Marc Jennings: Bread and Circuses

Marc Jennings is bringing his latest show, 'Bread and Circuses', to the festival. Known for his sharp observations and relatable material, Jennings has a knack for finding the funny in everyday life. Expect a set that’s both insightful and laugh-out-loud funny, as he explores the quirks of modern living. It’s a chance to see a comedian really hitting his stride.

The Eternal Shame Of Sue Perkins

Sue Perkins, a familiar face from television, is also gracing the festival with her presence. While details are still emerging, her involvement alone suggests a show with plenty of wit and personality. Perkins has a reputation for intelligent humour and a captivating stage presence, so this is likely to be a highlight for many. Keep an eye out for more information on this one; it sounds like it could be a real treat.

Judi Love: All About The Love

Judi Love is set to bring her signature warmth and humour to Glasgow. Her comedy often centres on family, relationships, and the joys and frustrations of everyday life, all delivered with an infectious energy. 'All About The Love' promises to be an uplifting and hilarious show, celebrating connection and good times. It’s the sort of comedy that leaves you feeling good long after the show has ended. If you're looking for a feel-good performance, this is definitely one to consider.

The festival really does offer something for everyone, from established stars to rising talents. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the breadth of comedy talent that descends on Glasgow each year. Make sure to check the full listings to plan your perfect festival experience.

It’s always a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially for the more popular shows. Many of these comedians are also appearing at other festivals, like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025, so their popularity is well-established. Don't miss out on what promises to be another incredible year for comedy in Glasgow!

Festival Highlights and Special Events

Beyond the individual shows, the Glasgow Comedy Festival 2026 is pulling out all the stops with some truly special events that you won't want to miss. These are the big hitters, the moments that bring everyone together for a shared laugh.

First up, the GICF Comedy Gala at King's Theatre promises an evening packed with a variety of the festival's biggest names. It's a fantastic way to catch multiple top comedians all in one place, offering a real taste of the festival's breadth. Think of it as a highlight reel of the entire event, all under one roof.

Then we have Paul Merton & Suki Webster’s Improv Show. If you're a fan of quick wit and spontaneous comedy, this is for you. They're masters of improv, creating hilarious scenes and characters right there on the spot, based on audience suggestions. It’s always a surprise what you’ll get, and that’s part of the fun. It’s a great example of how live comedy can be so unpredictable and engaging.

And for something a bit different, Horrible Histories - The Concert is set to be a blast. Taking their unique, often hilarious, take on history and turning it into a musical spectacle, it’s perfect for families or anyone who enjoys learning through laughter. They manage to make even the grimmest historical facts entertaining.

These headline events really do showcase the scale and ambition of the festival, bringing together different styles and performers for memorable nights. It’s worth checking the specific dates and times for these, as they are likely to be popular. You can find more details about the festival programme on the official Glasgow Comedy Festival website.

International Talent Graces Glasgow

Rob Beckett: Giraffe

Get ready for Rob Beckett, the 'Mouth of the South', as he brings his latest show, 'Giraffe', to Glasgow. Known for his quick wit and relatable observations, Beckett is a firm favourite on the UK comedy circuit. He's been on TV shows like 'Mock the Week' and '8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown', and his live shows are always a sell-out. This is a chance to see a comedian at the top of his game.

Aisling Bea: Older Than Jesus

Aisling Bea, the incredibly talented Irish comedian, writer, and actress, is set to perform her show 'Older Than Jesus'. Bea has made a name for herself with her sharp writing and energetic stage presence, appearing in shows like 'This Way Up' which she also created. Her unique blend of silliness and profound thought makes her a must-see act.

Ben Portsmouth: This Is Elvis

While not strictly a comedy act in the stand-up sense, Ben Portsmouth's tribute to Elvis Presley is a masterclass in performance and entertainment that often has the audience roaring with laughter. Portsmouth is internationally recognised as one of the best Elvis impersonators out there. His show, 'This Is Elvis', is a high-energy production that captures the King's charisma and iconic moves. It's a fantastic way to experience a bit of musical history with a comedic flair.

Glasgow has a reputation for being a city that loves a good laugh, and this year's festival really shows that off by bringing in some brilliant international names alongside our own home-grown talent. It's great to see such a mix.

Here's a look at some of the international stars:

• Rob Beckett: Famous for his rapid-fire delivery and observational humour.

• Aisling Bea: Offers a unique mix of sharp wit and heartfelt stories.

• Ben Portsmouth: A world-class tribute artist bringing the magic of Elvis to life.

It's always exciting to see comedians from different backgrounds share their perspectives, and the Glasgow International Comedy Festival is a brilliant platform for that. You can find out more about the festival's diverse lineup on the official Glasgow comedy festival website.

Diverse Performances Across the City

It's not just the big names and headline shows that make the Glasgow Comedy Festival so special. This year, the festival really spreads its wings, with loads of different acts popping up in venues all over town. You've got your seasoned pros and some newer faces too, all bringing their own flavour of funny.

Craig Hill: Wait ’Til You See My Entrance!

Craig Hill is back, and you just know he'll be bringing his usual high-energy, no-holds-barred style. He’s a real crowd-pleaser, always up for a laugh and never afraid to push the boundaries a bit. Expect a show packed with his signature observations and plenty of audience interaction.

Jessica Fostekew: Iconic Breath

Jessica Fostekew is presenting her new show, 'Iconic Breath'. She's known for her sharp wit and thoughtful approach to comedy, often exploring interesting themes in her sets. This one sounds like it might be a bit different, looking at tolerance and temperance through the lens of a monster. Intriguing, right?

Mark Nelson: Liquid Gold

Mark Nelson is another comedian who’s a regular on the circuit and always delivers. His show, 'Liquid Gold', is set to be a highlight, with him sharing his take on the world. He's got a knack for making you think while you're laughing, which is always a good sign.

The festival really is spread out, so keep an eye on what's on near you!

Here's a quick look at some of the dates and venues:

• Craig Hill: Wait ’Til You See My Entrance! - Check local listings for venue and exact date.

• Jessica Fostekew: Iconic Breath - The Stand Glasgow, 12th March 2026.

• Mark Nelson: Liquid Gold - Venue details to be confirmed, but expect it to be a popular one.

It’s great to see so many different places hosting comedy. It means you can catch a show no matter where you are in the city, and it supports smaller venues too. Definitely worth exploring what’s on offer beyond the main theatres.

Don't Miss Out!

So there you have it, a quick look at just some of the laughs heading our way for the Glasgow International Comedy Festival 2026. It really looks like another cracking year for comedy in the city. From big names to rising stars, there's something for everyone. Make sure you get your tickets sorted soon, as the best shows always sell out fast. We'll see you there for a good chuckle!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Glasgow Comedy Festival 2026?

The festival runs throughout March 2026, with most events happening between the 11th and 29th of the month. Some shows might start a bit earlier or finish a bit later, so it's always good to check the specific dates for each performance.

Who are some of the big names performing?

Get ready for a laugh with big stars like Kesha, Rob Beckett, Aisling Bea, and Tom Davis. Plus, you can catch brilliant stand-up comedians such as Connor Burns, Bridget Christie, Marc Jennings, Mark Simmons, Judi Love, and Mark Nelson. There's a real mix of famous faces and rising stars!

Are there any special events I shouldn't miss?

Definitely! The GICF Comedy Gala at the King's Theatre is a fantastic way to see the best of the festival all in one afternoon, and it includes the special Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award. Also, don't miss Paul Merton & Suki Webster's Improv Show for some spontaneous fun.

What kind of shows can I expect besides stand-up?

You're in for a treat! There's the dazzling musical 'Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical' and the energetic drag show 'QUEENZ: Drag Me to the Disco!'. Plus, 'Horrible Histories - The Concert' promises historical laughs for everyone.

Is the festival suitable for families?

While many shows are aimed at adults, there are often family-friendly options. 'Horrible Histories - The Concert' is a great example of a show that appeals to a younger audience as well as adults, with its funny take on history.

Where can I find out more details or buy tickets?

For the most up-to-date information on show times, venues, and to grab your tickets, it's best to visit the official Glasgow International Comedy Festival website. You can usually find links to buy tickets directly from there.