The weather might be changing, but the fun doesn’t have to end with summer. Fall brings a variety of comedy show shenanigans to Pittsburgh, including a Stephen King roast just in time for Halloween, on-stage game shows and more. After all, the best way to end a day with fewer hours of sun is to embrace the darkness … of an intimate room full of laughter.

Fall Comedy Shows Coming to Pittsburgh

Home by Nine! with Chris Nakis and Friends

September 4, October 9 and November 6, Cafe Conmigo Wexford

Yes, really — it is possible to see a full comedy show and be back home early. Grab a coffee and take a seat in a cozy space for performances by local and touring comedians. October’s event is headlined by the show’s producer, Chris Nakis, who always promises strong laughs … and an early bedtime.

Live from the Lounge

September 12, City Theater Lounge

Next Stage Productions promises to bring the jokes in the inviting lounge space at City Theater with the debut installment of Live from the Lounge. Join headliner Chrissy Costa, the only hilarious comic who is also a councilwoman for Rankin Borough. Then, return to the City Theater venue later in October for a frightfully good time with Night of the Living Dead N’at.

Wolves of Glendale

September 15, Bottlerocket Social Hall

If you prefer humor with melody, the Wolves of Glendale stand out from the others on the list. The well-traveled comedy band has a gig at Bottlerocket Social Hall — a unique setting that truly feels like stepping back in time to the ’70s. The venue offers an event nearly every night and is also home to the Pittsburgh chapter of the Upright Citizens Brigade improv school.

Living to Laugh

September 18, Arcade Comedy Theater

Get in some laughs while benefitting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Hosted by Zach Funk and featuring a lineup of standout local talent, this annual show reminds us that sometimes dark humor can be a way to process trauma. Grab tickets, make an extra donation and enjoy an evening of fun. After the show, explore the area with a drink in hand at these Downtown bars and restaurants.

One Liner Madness

October 2, Spirit

One Liner Madness is a single-elimination comedy tournament, structured like a March Madness bracket. The competition begins with 64 comedians who are quickly whittled down by audience applause. Despite the large number of performers, this show is fast-paced, as joke lengths are limited to three lines or less. One Liner Madness is an opportunity to hear the best jokes that (many) comics have to offer. But don’t let Spirit be your only stop in Lawrenceville, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and hidden gems to explore.

Chipped Ham Comedy Jam

October 10, Eleventh Hour Brewing Company

For the third year in a row, Chipped Ham Comedy brings a marathon comedy event with a slate of touring and local comedians. This year’s festival includes headliner Ben Roy and featured performer Gwen Sunkel, along with about a dozen other funny people. Don’t miss an opportunity to catch veteran performers and up-and-comers alike while grabbing a beer at one of Pittsburgh’s favorite breweries. Eleventh Hour Brewing Company is also putting on an Oktoberfest celebration in September and at the beginning of October that you won’t want to miss.

The Roast of Stephen King

October 23, The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls

Part of an ongoing series of shows dedicated to roasting pop-culture figures, this evening will feature a slate of funny people roasting the king of horror himself. Join Pennywise, Jack Torrance, Carrie White and more as they take on their maker. Get ready for a night to die for.

Don’t Tell Comedy

Most Weekends, Surprise Venues

Finally, if you prefer the element of surprise, Don’t Tell Comedy offers shows nearly every weekend (and occasionally on weekdays). The performers are a secret; so are the venues, which are provided by email on the day of the show. These shows offer a way to see local and touring comics in unique spaces. Who knows? You might even get the chance to laugh at people in a yoga studio … without being rude.

Looking for more? All year-round there are plenty of things to do around Pittsburgh.

Story by Kimberly Bennett
Photo Courtesy of Zach Funk

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