Comedy Clubs in Burlington, Vermont (2 Venues)

Find 2 stand-up comedy clubs in Burlington, Vermont. Browse venues, open mic nights, show schedules, and tickets.

The Burlington comedy scene

Burlington, Vermont, offers a distinct and intimate stand-up comedy experience, largely centered around the renowned Vermont Comedy Club. Nestled in a city known for its progressive spirit and vibrant college-town energy, the club embodies the local ethos, attracting both established acts and burgeoning talent. As the primary hub for laughs in the Green Mountain State, the Vermont Comedy Club is a must-visit for anyone seeking quality entertainment. Weekends typically feature touring headliners, bringing a diverse range of comedic styles to an appreciative audience. For those looking to catch rising stars or even try their own hand at comedy, the club also hosts engaging open mic nights, providing a crucial platform for local talent to hone their craft. These nights often reflect Burlington's quirky and intelligent humor, drawing a crowd that's engaged and supportive, eager for fresh perspectives. The club's intimate setting ensures a close connection between performer and audience, making every show feel personal. Parking can be found in nearby garages or on-street, though it's advisable to check local signage and arrive early, especially for weekend shows. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, but audiences here appreciate thoughtful and original material, often responding well to observational humor and witty social commentary. To ensure you get a seat for popular shows, especially on weekends, it's always a good idea to book your tickets in advance, as shows can sell out quickly.

The Vermont Comedy Club, located on Main Street, is a significant hub for stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy, regularly hosting both local and nationally recognized comedians.

For the most concentrated comedy options and pre-show dining, focus your evening around the downtown area, particularly near Main Street and the pedestrian-friendly Church Street Marketplace.

Frequently asked questions

When are the best nights to see comedy in Burlington?

Burlington, Vermont's comedy scene is intimate but excellent. Vermont Comedy Club is one of the most acclaimed small-city comedy venues in the country, booking national touring acts in a beautifully renovated space on weekends and select weeknights. The 126 adds an additional independent venue with its own programming calendar. Two open mic nights give local comedians regular stage time in a city that punches well above its weight for live comedy.

What should I know about age restrictions and logistics in Burlington?

Vermont Comedy Club is 21+ for most shows with a bar component; check their website for specific all-ages show dates. The 126's policies vary by event. Reservations at Vermont Comedy Club are strongly recommended — the room is small and shows sell out regularly, particularly for well-known touring acts. Burlington parking is manageable, with garages and street parking downtown. Winters can be snowy, so plan for conditions if attending evening shows between November and April.

What makes Vermont Comedy Club and Burlington's scene special?

Vermont Comedy Club is genuinely one of the best comedy venues in New England — maybe in the country for its size. The venue has won awards, the booking is exceptional, and the audience is engaged and adventurous. Burlington's progressive arts culture and small-city intimacy mean shows feel personal in a way that large-city clubs rarely do. The club also runs training programs that have built a surprisingly strong local comedy community for a city of 45,000.

Are there open mic comedy nights in Burlington?

Burlington has two dedicated open mic nights, which is impressive for a city its size. Vermont Comedy Club hosts some of these events, and The 126 adds additional performance opportunities throughout the week. The local comedy community is small but dedicated, and aspiring comedians here benefit from the tight-knit nature of the scene — you'll get real feedback and genuine support from fellow performers.

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