Seven shows bring Southport Comedy Festival to its grand finale

Southport Comedy Festival is heading into its final week, with seven more shows scheduled at Victoria Park before the 15th annual event closes on Sunday 18 October 2026. The programme moves from Adam Kay’s NHS stories to 90s-themed comedy bingo, with a heated marquee, food and drinks on site, and a charity raffle among the highlights.

Key takeaways

The final-week line-up brings together touring names, a multi-comic bill and a family-friendly afternoon atmosphere for comedy fans across several nights. Here’s what to know:

• Seven shows run from Sunday 11 to Sunday 18 October.

• The venue is a heated, seated marquee in Victoria Park, Southport.

• The programme includes stand-up, comedy bingo and an afternoon with Mick Miller.

• A raffle at the bingo night will raise money for local charity Bebe’s Hive.

The festival’s final-week line-up

The remaining programme opens with Adam Kay on Sunday 11 October. The BAFTA-winning comedian brings This Is Going to Hurt, a stand-up show drawing on his experiences as a junior doctor and the bestselling book and television series. Mike Wozniak follows on Tuesday 13 October with The Bench, a new tour show built around an unlikely central subject.

On Wednesday 14 October, Scott Bennett presents Blood Sugar Baby, a funny and hopeful account of his family’s experience navigating his daughter’s rare genetic condition. Friday’s Best of the Fest features Steve Gribbin, Clayton Jones and Brennan Reece, hosted by festival director Brendan Riley.

A party night and Sunday double bill

Saturday 17 October brings Comedy Bingo Back To The 90s, combining bingo with music and a decade-themed party. Fancy dress is encouraged, though not required. Bebe’s Hive will run a prize raffle during the event, with all proceeds going to support the charity.

The festival closes on Sunday 18 October with two shows. Mick Miller, who has performed for more than 40 years, takes the afternoon slot, with Oliver Bowler in support. That evening, Seann Walsh presents his new show, This Is Torture, following his sold-out 2023 tour.

Food, drinks and a local charity

All seven events take place under canvas in a luxury heated and seated marquee provided by Elite Events. Local businesses Tik Taco and Elite Bars are handling food and drink: visitors can expect Mexican street food, a licensed bar, snacks and hot drinks. Donation buckets will also be available at festival events throughout the programme.

The 17-day festival is presented in association with Halliwell Jones Kia Southport. After the comedy closes, the same venue is set to host Southport Oktoberfest on 23 and 24 October.

Live comedy beyond Southport

For Londoners inspired by Southport’s mix of established performers and live-show energy, Comedy in Your Eye offers a more intimate way to catch professional stand-up. The award-winning club hosts weekly Tuesday and Thursday shows at The Camden Eye, a historic pub in Camden Town, with a welcoming grassroots feel and an ever-changing line-up.

• Seven shows to savour as Southport Comedy Festival 2026 enters its final week, Stand Up For Southport.