With few formal comedy clubs in the First State, plenty of clubs, theater groups and venues fill in the gaps with comedy specials. From full-time comedy clubs to theater companies ready to provide some laughs, here’s where to catch live comedy in Delaware.
Cool J’s After Dark
Delaware’s longest-running comedy show, Straight No Chaser, welcomes seasoned comedy talent from the East Coast to provide consistent comedy in Bear. After Dark also hosts fun comedy open mics for up-and-coming comedians, musical performances, karaoke nights and more.
1857 Pulaski Hwy, Bear
Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
Every year, the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center hosts the Towers Comedy Festival. This off-season festival draws visitors to the beach for a full weekend of professional comedy. This year’s lineup includes Nikki Glaser, Michael Rapaport, Monét X Change and more. The 2023 festival comes to Rehoboth on November 8-11, and tickets can be purchased online.
229 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
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The Queen Wilmington
This venue hosts successful international music acts, local talent drag shows and, of course, plenty of comedy acts. The Queen has seen performances from the likes of Jim Norton, Rachael O’Brien, Jimmy Dore, Bill Bellamy and many more well-known comedians. Find upcoming events online to keep up with which comedians will perform next.
500 North Market Street, Wilmington
The Freeman Arts Pavilion
This unassuming outdoor venue in Selbyville has hosted plenty of internationally beloved acts from musicians to comedians. Tom Papa’s 2023 tour hit the Freeman Arts Pavilion in August. Brian Regan has also graced the stage, as well as Jim Gaffigan, Jay Leno, Nate Bargatze and many more. As an outdoor venue, shows are seasonal but they sell out fast! Check back to the upcoming performances page to get your tickets when new shows are announced.
31806 Lakeview Drive, Selbyville
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The Grand Opera House
The Grand welcomes comedians to its multiple stages throughout the year. Peppered between musical acts are comedian performances from performers like David Sedaris, Trey Kennedy and more.
818 North Market Street, Wilmington
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The Delaware Contemporary
Fearless Improv performs monthly improv comedy shows at The Delaware Contemporary. The comedy show is based on audience suggestions, so what you see has never been seen before and will never be seen again! The shows are a lot of fun and a great addition to your comedy lineup.
200 South Madison Street, Wilmington
Where do you get your comedy fix in Delaware? If your favorite spot didn’t make the list, share it with Delaware Today‘s Digital Editor, Sydney Livingston, at slivingston@delawaretoday.com.
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