LOL in PVD: Comedy Nights in Providence
Need a good laugh? Who doesn't these days, right? You're in luck — Providence is full of opportunities to laugh your head off, whether you prefer big-name comedians or local open mic nights. You can even take a comedy bus tour around the city. You won't believe all the places you can go to tickle your funny bone.
Top comics can often be found at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), The VETS, the Uptown Theater and the Amica Mutual Pavilion. This fall, there's a full lineup of comedians visiting The Creative Capital. Check out our events calendar for details. Some upcoming highlights include Bert Kreischer (Nov. 13 at The VETS) and Janeane Garofalo (Dec. 3 at The Comedy Connection of RI).
Looking for more of a local scene? You can find a comedy night pretty much anywhere in the city. Thursday nights on Federal Hill, stop into Palermo's Martini Bar (conveniently attached to Palermo's Brooklyn Pizza) for a slice and a laugh. It's open mic, so don't be afraid to take the stage if the mood strikes you. If you prefer some weekend fun, head Downtown on Friday or Saturday to the Hide Speakeasy (downstairs from The George) for Providence Comedy Underground, featuring comics you might recognize from Comedy Central and "Late Night." Or keep an eye out for the occasional comedian at AS220's Black Box.
In nearby East Providence, The Comedy Connection will have you in stitches every weekend (and a lot of weeknights, as well). With a combination of special guests and local comedy showcases, not to mention a full bar, you'll be sure to find something or someone to crack you up. Throw in free parking, and we're sold.
For a night of laughs on the road, hop on board The Comedy Bus for a tour of Providence with the best local comics around. Or catch one of the weekend brunch tours with stops at two local restaurants. All you have to do is kick back and enjoy the ride. You can even bring your own beer and wine (or pick some up at one of the stops along the way). Fasten your seatbelt, because you may laugh so hard you'll fall right out of your seat!
And be sure to mark your calendar for the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot, four days of comedy fun running from March 18–21, 2026. Stay tuned for details on this year's lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I see comedy in Providence?
Big-name comedians perform at the Providence Performing Arts Center, The VETS, the Uptown Theater, and the Amica Mutual Pavilion. For local comedy, try Providence Comedy Underground at Hide Speakeasy, open mic nights at Palermo’s Martini Bar, or the Comedy Connection in East Providence.
- Is there an open mic comedy night in Providence?
Yes. Palermo’s Martini Bar on Federal Hill hosts open mic comedy on Thursday nights.
- What is Providence Comedy Underground?
Providence Comedy Underground is a weekend comedy show at Hide Speakeasy, below The George, featuring comics seen on Comedy Central and late-night TV.
- Is there a comedy club near Providence?
Yes. The Comedy Connection in East Providence hosts comedy shows every weekend and many weeknights, with a full bar and free parking.
- Can I bring alcohol on the Comedy Bus?
Yes. The Comedy Bus allows guests to bring their own beer and wine, and some tours include stops where you can pick some up.
- When is the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot?
The Lil Rhody Laugh Riot is a four-day comedy festival held in Providence each March. Check the festival’s website for this year’s dates and lineup.
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