Running from May 28 to June 7, 2026, the festival will feature an impressive lineup of 92 shows, with 57 offering free entry to make laughter accessible to all.
This year's expanded schedule promises a diverse mix of stand up, improv, podcasts, new act competitions, and family friendly performances across multiple venues in the city of Derby.
Building on the resounding success of the 2025 iteration, which marked the festival's triumphant big return after a five year hiatus, the event saw 72 shows across 6 venues and over 1,600 tickets issued, drawing comedy enthusiasts from near and far.
The 2026 programme continues this momentum, showcasing emerging and established talent.
Attendees can look forward to standout performances from a roster of highly talented comedians. While you may not have seen these people regularly on TV, comedy is like an iceberg, and there's a wealth of talent you don't see that we love to celebrate. Highlights include:
David Eagle, a folk music and comedy legend from Hartlepool, known for his work as a blind comedian, singer, and musician. As a member of the three time BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winning band The Young'uns, Eagle brings a unique blend of humor and music, with accolades including Best Variety Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival 2024 and New Comedian of the Year at Leicester Square Theatre.
Dawn Bailey, an original performer and winner of the XS Manchester Radio Comedian of the Year 2016, celebrated for her authentic storytelling, sharp observational humor, and relatable takes on life as a fifty something mum.
Michael McKenzie, a rising stand up star and finalist in the Chortle Student Comedy Award 2023 and BBC New Comedy Awards 2022, known for his sharp, confident delivery and personal stories, including his experiences with a prosthetic leg.
Joe Wells, a neurodivergent comedian, writer, and podcaster acclaimed for his insightful and hilarious explorations of autism, as seen in his full stand up show "King of the Autistics" and popular videos on topics like getting an autism diagnosis.
Key events include the Opening Preview Show on May 28, the New Act of the Year Final on June 3, and the Comedian of the Year Final & Closing Show on June 7. Many shows operate on a pay what you like (PWYL) basis, ensuring high quality comedy is available to audiences of all budgets.
"We've curated an incredible array of talent to showcase Derby as a vibrant comedy hub," James Beckett, Festival Organiser told That's Books and More.
"Following last year's massive success with over 1,600 tickets issued across 72 shows, we're thrilled to expand to 92 performances this year. Whether you're into sharp stand up, interactive improv, or discovering the next big name, there's something for everyone."
Venues include fan favourites like The Old Bell Hotel, The Courtyard, Derby Conference Centre, The Royal Standard, Dubrek Studios & The Greyhound. All helping transform Derby into a laughter filled destination for 11 days.
Tickets and full programme details are available now at https://ramcomedyfestival.co.uk Early booking is recommended, as popular shows are expected to sell out.
The Ram Comedy Festival is an independent event dedicated to promoting live comedy in Derby, UK. Supporting local promoters and talent, it features a mix of free and ticketed shows to foster a thriving comedy scene.
