DC COMEDY FESTIVAL PRESENTS: BUSBOYS & POETS SHIRLINGTON SHOWCASE 

.Join us for an unforgettable night of stand-up comedy as the 2026 DC Comedy Festival takes over Busboys and Poets Shirlington!Featuring a diverse lineup of comedians from across the DMV and around the country, this special festival showcase highlights some of the funniest rising stars, local favorites, and nationally touring performers all in one night.

Whether you're looking for a unique date night, a fun evening with friends, or simply a chance to experience live comedy at one of Northern Virginia's most beloved venues, this show delivers nonstop laughs in an intimate setting.

The DC Comedy Festival celebrates the vibrant comedy scene of Washington, DC by bringing together performers and audiences from every background under one mission: We Laugh Together.What to Expect:
• Professional stand-up comedians
• Festival performers from across the United States
• Featured local DMV talent
• Full food and beverage service available
• An intimate comedy club atmosphere
• A perfect date night or group outing
Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to enjoy dinner and drinks before the show.
Part of the 2026 DC Comedy Festival
September 9–12, 2026
For more information and additional festival events, visit DCComedyFestival.com.
The DC Comedy Festival

The DC Comedy Festival is one of the largest independent comedy festivals on the East Coast, bringing together stand-up comedians, comedy fans, producers, and entertainment professionals from across the United States and beyond. Held annually throughout Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, the festival showcases emerging talent, local favorites, nationally touring comedians, and special comedy events across multiple venues throughout the DMV.

Founded by local comedians and producers, the DC Comedy Festival was created to celebrate the rich comedy culture of the Washington metropolitan area while providing opportunities for performers to network, develop their careers, and connect with audiences. The festival highlights the region that helped launch and inspire comedy legends such as Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, Wanda Sykes, and Stephen Colbert.

Festival programming includes stand-up comedy showcases, headliner performances, comedy competitions, industry networking events, educational workshops, panel discussions, and special events designed for both comedians and comedy fans. Whether you're looking for things to do in Washington, DC, searching for live comedy near you, planning a date night, or discovering the next generation of comedy stars, the DC Comedy Festival offers a unique entertainment experience.

The festival takes place in comedy clubs, theaters, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues throughout Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia, creating one of the most diverse comedy events in the country. With performances ranging from local comics performing their first festival to nationally recognized headliners, every show offers a different experience and perspective.

Comedy fans can purchase individual show tickets, festival passes, VIP experiences, and special event access throughout the festival week. Comedians can participate in showcases, workshops, networking opportunities, and professional development sessions focused on growing their careers in stand-up comedy.

If you're searching for the best comedy festival in Washington, DC, upcoming stand-up comedy shows in the DMV, comedy events near Maryland Live! Casino, comedy clubs in Washington, DC, or live entertainment in the nation's capital, the DC Comedy Festival is your destination for laughs, networking, and unforgettable performances.

For festival schedules, tickets, comedian announcements, venue information, and event updates, visit DCCOMEDYFESTIVAL.COM and follow @DCComedyFest on Facebook and Instagram.

We Laugh Together.