The Lady Laughs International Comedy Festival is making its way to Philadelphia this year.
Founded by Dina Nina in Madison, Wisconsin, in 2016, the event showcases women and queer comedians in safe spaces.
The 2026 festival, taking place Aug. 17–23 at Louis Bluver Theater at The Drake, will feature a diverse lineup including “Oops! All Trans,” “The Women & Queer Comedy Show,” “Gay Sons,” “Thot Daughters,” and a stand-up comedy pageant competition. On its opening night, the festival will feature an open mic opportunity.
A viewing committee will ensure alignment with inclusivity and anti-bigotry values.
Lady Laughs Philly, a sister organization, now produces the festival in Philadelphia and runs the city’s only all-women and queer monthly comedy show, upholding Nina’s legacy and commitment to diverse, safe comedic spaces.
Nina, who is trans, emphasizes that humor can break down barriers and foster empathy. The festival aims to empower comics of all experience levels by providing stage time, resources, and networking opportunities.
In addition, the festival includes a robust slate of professional development offerings, including a no-nonsense workshop by Chanel Ali on joke-writing, set-building, character work, and industry navigation, as well as potential sessions on booking, bios, and portfolio development.
According to the Philadelphia Gay News, local artist Shevaun Brannigan secured a Leeway Foundation grant to fund Ali’s headlining appearance and workshop. This grant will permit free attendance for workshop participants and cover the cost of 20 comics’ access to professional photos and videos for their portfolios.
Tickets and an all-access pass are available through the Lady Laughs Philly website. The Louis Bluver Theater at The Drake is at 302 S. Hicks St. in Philadelphia.