Punters | Melbourne International Comedy Festival

When is the Comedy Festival?

The 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival will take place from 26 March to 20 April 2025.

RAW Comedy heats and finals will take place from Janurary 2025. The Roadshow takes place across the country between late April and July each year following the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and the international leg not long after.

Comedy does happen all year round and, although the Festival doesn't run gigs outside of our events, you should check out local comedy rooms that might be running tonight.

Who is on at the Festival?

How do I book Festival tickets?

How can I get tickets to the Gala and Opening Night?

The 2025 Gala and Opening Night will go on sale in November. They are two of the Comedy Festival's most popular events! The best way to get tickets is to join our mailing list to be the first to find out exactly when and where the Gala goes on sale. Due to the popularity of The Gala, and its status as a fundraising event for Oxfam, we do not set aside tickets for corporate sales.

Where can I find a comedian to perform at my event?

Most shows are not age restricted and those that are will be listed as such in the Program Guide. As we don't know how your children will react or what you feel is appropriate for them, it's difficult for us to recommend particular shows. Please be aware, however, that comedy shows can contain coarse language, nudity or 'blue' themes. Our best advice is to browse the Program Guide and reviews to gauge the content of shows.

It is possible for patrons under 18 to get into some licensed venues (such as Max Watt's) provided they are accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult. Please note, however, that some venues are strictly 18+. For venue information on a specific show, click the 'venue' drop-down box on the right hand side of the show page.

Each year's Festival program will feature a Kid's section highlighting the best comedy for ages 0 - 12. This does not mean that kid's comedy won't appeal to all age groups. The Festival also has a Family comedy program with shows that are suitable for all the family.

What is the Festival Club?

Can I get a refund on a Comedy Festival ticket I've bought?

Refunds are only issued according to the Australian Entertainment Industry Association's Ticketing Code of Practice. Refunds are only issued if:

a main attraction/event is cancelled or rescheduled
a main attraction/star performer(s) is cancelled or rescheduled and substitute arranged
an event is 'part' cancelled by premature termination substantially before performance of advertised content or expiration of advertised duration
previously undisclosed significant visual obstruction for a reserved seat reported soon after commencement

If an event requires a reduction in capacity to ensure a safe event or by government directive, refunds and exchanges will be processed in reverse order based on transaction date.

You can download a full copy of the Code here. If you feel that you are entitled to a refund, please contact the Comedy Festival office in writing, addressing all communication to the Executive Director. The final decision on refunds is made by the producer of the show. If asking us about a refund is for such a show, we will communicate your request to that show's producer.

What is a Comedy Festival gift voucher?

Vouchers can be redeemed for tickets to 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival shows in selected venues (including Melbourne Town Hall, Trades Hall, RMIT Capitol Theatre, Greek Centre, Max Watt’s, Swiss Club, Victoria Hotel and many more). Vouchers are redeemed via a unique code, which you will receive instantly via email on purchase. Vouchers can be redeemed online, over the phone or at a Melbourne International Comedy Festival box office. You can purchase a gift voucher here.

Vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Not valid for purchases through Ticketmaster, Ticketek or any other external ticketing provider. Redemption is subject to availability.

Can I still get into a show if I am running very late, and will I get a refund?

We cannot guarantee that you will be admitted to a show if you are running late. It will depend largely on whether an appropriate break in the performance will allow for latecomers and if the performer and front of house staff are comfortable admitting you. As a general rule, most Comedy Festival shows are only an hour long so the best advice is to have your car parked and your tickets picked up well in advance of a show's advertised start time.

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