Laughter is the best medicine — unless your symptoms include an empty wallet. Luckily, New York City offers the perfect remedy with plenty of free comedy shows that promise big laughs without draining your bank account. Whether you’re a die-hard live comedy fan, looking to dodge another night of doomscrolling or are an aspiring comedian yourself, skip the cover charge and treat yourself to some giggles at these spots.

Monday: ‘Frantic!’ at The Stand

What better way is there to start your week than with a free stand-up show right by campus? Located right next to Union Square, comedian Aaron Berg hosts the free show “Frantic!” every Monday night at The Stand. With a combination of club regulars and up-and-coming talent, these shows have featured comedians like Marcello Hernández, Natalie Cuomo and Lucas Zelnick. These shows are exactly what their name suggests: high-energy and packed with comics who thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Tuesday: ‘Not Ripe Bananas’ at West Side Comedy Club

For those in search of a comedy show that’s a little more unpredictable, “Not Ripe Bananas” is your Tuesday night salvation. Held at the cozy West Side Comedy Club on the Upper West Side, “Not Ripe Bananas” challenges a rotating lineup of professional comedians to work on fresh material every week. Think of it as a playground for experienced comics who aren’t afraid to get a little bruised trying something new.

Wednesday: ‘We Have Fun’ at Young Ethel’s

Forget your midweek slump at “We Have Fun.” Comedian writers Dan Wilbur and Zachary Sims host the show, bringing a new group of comics to the backroom of Young Ethel’s in Park Slope every week. If the element of surprise isn’t your thing, featured comedians are posted in advance on the show’s Instagram. But with a lineup that frequently includes comedians from Comedy Central and “The Late Show,” you’re guaranteed to have a good time even if you go in blind.

Thursday: ‘Demon Time’ at Eris

If stand-up comedy isn’t exactly your cup of tea, the Brooklyn Comedy Collective’s show “Demon Time” is for you. This show treats 21+ audiences in Williamsburg to new improvised sketches every week. Performed in the lower level of the Eris theater, “Demon Time” is a delightfully chaotic and absurd time. Make sure you get there early, though — there are only 35 seats available and standing room offered up to capacity.

Friday: ‘Bitches’ Brew’ at Halyard’s Bar 

Fridays are for fun, and the comedy variety show “Bitches’ Brew” makes a point of delivering it in full force. The show transforms the backroom of Halyard’s Bar in Gowanus, Brooklyn, into a comedy den where both seasoned professionals and rising talent can shine. Additionally, “Bitches’ Brew” is one of the city’s longest-running female-produced weekly shows. With no shortage of killer performers, including musical comics, this show is sure to start your weekend off with a bang.

Saturday: ‘Bomb Shelter Comedy’ at The Gaf West 

Ring in the weekend at Hell’s Kitchen’s free comedy speakeasy, “Bomb Shelter Comedy.” You’ll be able to watch comedians you recognize from Comedy Cellar and Netflix, mixed in with plenty of fresh faces. Past comics have included big names like Mark Normand and Che Durena, but you never know who might show up. If you’re free throughout the week, “Bomb Shelter” is also hosted on Thursday nights at The Gaf West.

Sunday: Open Mics

If you feel inspired to test out your own comedic chops, try checking out one of the many open mic shows around the city. These shows give anyone the chance to sign up to perform on stage, making them the perfect opportunity to try out something new and let your jokes be heard. Most venues offer free open mics at least once a week, so try checking out one of the many comedy clubs near Washington Square Park, like The Grisly Pear and The Duplex. Or head to the Upright Citizens Brigade on the second and fourth Sundays of every month for their “Bring Your Own Thing” open mic, which welcomes sketch, improv, stand-up and musical comedy.

Contact Fiona Clifford-Fotopoulos at [email protected].