The Leicester Comedy Festival and UK Kids’ Comedy Festival are gearing up for their most ambitious programme to date in February 2025, featuring an incredible lineup and exciting new initiatives. Here are five highlights that make this year’s festival unmissable:
1. 720 Shows Across 72 Venues
The Leicester Comedy Festival 2025 will be the largest in its 32-year history, with 720 shows hosted across 72 venues, bringing comedy to audiences in Leicester and beyond. Iconic venues like De Montfort Hall and new additions such as Leicester Cathedral and Barkby Cricket Club ensure there’s something for everyone, no matter where you are.
2. A-List Comedians and Festival Patrons
Expect to see top comedians like Katherine Ryan, Milton Jones, and Jack Dee, alongside rising stars featured in events like Circuit Breakers and Leicester Comedian of the Year. The festival also welcomes its patrons, including Stewart Lee and Rosie Jones, who’ll be performing live interviews and more, bringing both laughter and mentorship to the stage.
3. Exclusive Priority Booking for Festival Best Friends
Festival supporters, known as Best Friends, will enjoy exclusive 48-hour early access to book tickets, starting today, before general booking opens on 1st November. It’s a chance to secure seats to popular shows before they sell out, and a way for dedicated fans to be part of the festival’s heart and soul.
4. Empowering Emerging Voices
In partnership with Big Give Arts for Impact, the Bridging the Gap initiative aims to provide performance opportunities for comedians from underrepresented groups. Additionally, a collaboration with Funny Women brings special events for female and non-binary comedians, offering mentoring, networking, and support during the festival’s opening weekend.
5. Fun for All Ages at the UK Kids’ Comedy Festival
Now in its seventh year, the UK Kids’ Comedy Festival returns with 64 events tailored for young audiences and their families. From “Comedy in the Dark for Kids” to workshops fostering creativity and confidence, the programme includes an array of family-friendly events, featuring acts like Marcel Lucont and Olaf Falafel, along with a Kids’ Gala Preview.
The Leicester Comedy Festival and the UK Kids’ Comedy Festival bring much-needed laughter and connection to the community. With ticket sales starting soon, don’t miss out on joining this vibrant celebration of comedy.
For more information and to book your tickets, visit Leicester Comedy Festival or UK Kids’ Comedy Festival.
