New York City can be stressful, so we could all use a good laugh right about now. Fortunately, The Stand Restaurant & Comedy Club is bringing back the NY Laughs Festival for its second year.
The event runs from Thursday, June 4 through Sunday, June 7, bringing a massive wave of stand-up to Lower Manhattan. Best of all? You don’t have to spend a dime to get in on the opening night fun.
Comedy in the square
The festival officially kicks off on June 4 with a massive, open-air event called “Comedy in the Square.” You can head down to the North Plaza of Union Square Park from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for an entirely free outdoor show.
Last year, this kickoff drew over 1,000 New Yorkers. This year, organizers are setting up a concert-style main stage with both seating and standing room.
You can expect live music to start the evening, followed by a stacked lineup featuring Mark Normand, Chris Turner, Emma Willmann, Matthew Broussard, Caitlin Peluffo, and Usama Siddiquee.
There will also be plenty of food and beverage offerings on deck while you watch.
A heavy-hitting comedy lineup
After the opening night, the laughs will spread out across several iconic downtown venues.
You can catch weekend shows at The Stand, Irving Plaza, Joe’s Pub, Pier 57, and St. Marks Comedy Club. They are even hosting a special preview at The Stand’s brand-new Chelsea Market location.
The 2026 roster is packed with both comedy legends and rising stars. Expect to see heavyweights like Jeff Ross, Dave Attell, Andrew Dice Clay, and Rachel Feinstein.
Other notable acts taking the stage include Jerrod Carmichael, Paul Virzi, Joey Dardano, and Alex English, with even more names to be announced.
Accessible laughs for everyone
NYLaughs is a nonprofit dedicated to making comedy accessible to all New Yorkers, viewing stand-up as a form of public art.
Because of that mission, ticket prices for the weekend are incredibly reasonable. Depending on the venue and the performer, events range from completely free up to $58.
If you are ready to laugh off the work week, grab your friends and secure your spots before they sell out.
What you need to know before you go:
Check out the full schedule and grab tickets at nylaughsfest.com
📅 June 4 – June 7, 2026 (Free kickoff event is June 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.)
📍 Union Square Park (Kickoff) and various Lower Manhattan venues including The Stand, Irving Plaza, and Joe’s Pub
🎟️ Ranging from free to $58
