4/21/2025

JAMESTOWN, NY — If you’re a fan of legendary comedy, soul-stirring music, and spontaneous hilarity, then consider this your official travel alert: Jamestown, New York is calling! This August 7–10, the charming hometown of Lucille Ball transforms into a comedy mecca as the National Comedy Center Comedy Festival returns with an electrifying lineup headlined by none other than Jon Stewart, Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, and Saturday Night Live’s Mikey Day and Streeter Seidell.
This four-day celebration of America’s funniest voices is more than just punchlines and pratfalls—it’s a living tribute to comedy’s rich cultural legacy and vibrant future. With over 50 live events ranging from rock-blues concerts to late-night showcases, the National Comedy Center’s festival continues to honor the best of comedy past and present with unmatched flair.
🎤 Jon Stewart: Unfiltered, Unmissable, and Unstoppable
On Saturday, August 9, Emmy-winning satirist Jon Stewart takes the stage for “An Evening with Jon Stewart,” bringing his razor-sharp wit and timely social commentary back to live audiences. “Jon Stewart is one of the most influential comedic voices of our time,” said Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center. “He’s deeply thoughtful about our shared humanity and knows exactly how to cut through the noise—with laughter.”
After redefining political satire on The Daily Show, Stewart recently returned to the spotlight with a vengeance—and with a mic in hand. “Comedy is a grind,” Stewart reflects. “I’m glad there’s a museum that honors that grind, and I’m thrilled to be part of a festival that keeps comedy’s story alive.”
🎸 Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers: Where Comedy Meets Classic Rock
Sunday, August 10 will be nothing short of iconic. Bill Murray, comedy royalty since his SNL debut in 1977, joins Mike Zito, Albert Castiglia, and Jimmy Vivino (of Conan fame) for a wild, one-night-only blues-rock fusion concert. Paired with a stellar Stand-Up Showcase, this unique blend of music and mirth is sure to leave audiences rolling in the aisles and rocking in their seats.
"From Ghostbusters to Groundhog Day, Bill Murray’s impact on comedy is undeniable,” Gunderson added. “His musical flair only deepens his creative legend.”
📺 SNL at 50: Inside the Writers’ Room
In honor of Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary, the festival also spotlights cast member Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidell. The duo will share behind-the-scenes stories and insights during a one-of-a-kind on-stage dialogue. Bonus: fans will celebrate the museum’s accession of cue cards from their viral “Washington’s Dream” sketch—now etched in comedy history.
“Being preserved in the archive alongside our comedy heroes? That has to be a clerical error,” joked Seidell. “But we’ll roll with it while we can!”
🏛️ More Than a Festival — A National Treasure
Named one of TIME’s “World’s Greatest Places” and USA Today’s “Best New Museum,” the National Comedy Center isn’t just a festival host—it’s the Smithsonian of Comedy. With over 50 immersive exhibits and a dedication to preserving comedic arts for future generations, it’s the perfect backdrop for this can’t-miss summer event.
Festival-goers can also explore the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, enjoy block parties, late-night performances, and legacy tributes—all spread across the lively streets of Jamestown.
✨ Join the Laughter: How to Attend
Presale Tickets for Members: April 25 – May 1 at ComedyCenter.org
General Public Tickets: May 2 at 10 AM ET
Memberships start at $75 and include early ticket access, season passes, and more!
📣 Why Houston Should Head to Jamestown
Houston Style Magazine urges our comedy-loving readers to pack a bag and punch a ticket north! Whether you're a Jon Stewart loyalist, a Bill Murray devotee, or an SNL superfan, this summer festival is a front-row seat to the brilliance of America’s funniest minds.
And let’s be honest—after the year we’ve had, we all deserve a reason to laugh. From Houston to Jamestown, comedy truly connects us all.
đź”— For festival info, membership, and travel tips, visit ComedyCenter.org or call 716.484.2222.