If there’s one thing Canadians know how to do, it’s make the most of summer. From patios to paddleboards, we squeeze every sunbeam out of the season—and now, we’re doing it with a side of gut-busting laughter. Enter: The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival (GOCF), Canada’s most hilarious outdoor celebration that’s sweeping the country one punchline at a time.
Whether you’re a stand-up superfan or just in it for the vibes and snacks, GOCF delivers the ultimate fusion of comedy, community, and fresh air. Here’s everything you need to know about this open-air laugh fest and why it might just be the best thing you do all summer.
From a Pandemic Pivot to a National Phenomenon
While the pandemic sucked for many reasons, some good things did come out of it. The GOCF is one of them. Born in 2021 in Edmonton, the festival was originally designed to bring people together safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it quickly proved that comedy under the stars wasn’t just a clever solution—it was a downright sensation.
Founded by Trixstar Live, the festival struck a chord. By 2023, it had expanded to four cities. By 2024, that number jumped to seven, including its first U.S. appearance in Spokane, Washington. In just a few short years, GOCF became North America’s fastest-growing and most fun-loving comedy event.
What’s the Big Deal? (Hint: The Talent Is HUGE)
Let’s talk about the lineup, shall we? The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival doesn’t play around. It books some of the biggest names in comedy—and we mean headliner big. Past performers include:
- Bill Burr
- Kevin Hart
- Bert Kreischer
- Whitney Cummings
- Theo Von
- Mark Normand
- Chelsea Handler
- Andrew Schulz
- Russell Peters
And it’s not just about big names. GOCF has become known for its thoughtful curation—balancing major touring acts with up-and-coming Canadian comics, local hosts, and even live DJs and bands to keep the energy flowing between sets.
Each city has a slightly different flavour, giving fans a unique experience whether they’re catching a set in Halifax or hanging out on an inner-city island in Calgary.
From Coast to Coast: Where It All Goes Down in 2025
GOCF has evolved into a national tour with a local soul. Festival stops for 2025 include:
- Edmonton, AB – The original home of the fest.
- Experience live comedy in the great outdoors of Kinsmen Park! 2025’s lineup includes Tony Hinchcliffe and the Killers of Kill Tony (Hans Kim, Ari Matti, David Lucas, and William Montgomery), the Trailer Park Boys, Jeremy Piven, Anthony Jeselnik, Kumail Nanjiani, Nick Kroll and Pete Holmes.
- Calgary, AB – Comedy wonderland in the heart of downtown YYC
- Experience live comedy in the great outdoors of Prince’s Island Park! 2025’s lineup includes Theo Von, Adam Ray as Dr.Phil Live, Mark Normand, Ms. Pat & Grace O’Malley, Chelcie Lynn, Kam Patterson, Bert Kreischer, Whitney Cummings, and Derrick Stroup.
- Vancouver, BC – Coastal chuckles with a view.
- Experience live comedy in the great outdoors of Stanley Park! 2025’s lineup includes Bert Kreischer, Whitney Cummings, Derrick Stroup, Alex Svarez, John Mulaney, Mike Birbiglia, Nick Kroll, Fred Armisen, Trailer Park Boys, Jeremy Piven, Tony Hinchcliffe and the Killers of Kill Tony (Kam Patterson, Ari Matti, David Lucas & William Montgomery).
- Winnipeg, MB – Central Canada joins the fun.
- Experience live comedy in the great outdoors of Assiniboine Park! 2025’s lineup includes Bert Kreischer, Whitney Cummings, Ms. Pat, John Mulaney, Martin Short, Trailer Park Boys, and Jeremy Piven.
- Halifax, NS – Atlantic vibes meet outrageous punchlines.
- Experience live comedy in the great outdoors of the historical Garrison Grounds! 2025’s lineup includes Aziz Ansari, Matteo Lane, Tony Hinchcliffe and the Killers of Kill Tony (David Lucas, William Montgomery, Ahren Belisle, and Kim Congdon), Jeff Arcuri & Caitlin Peluffo, Bert Kreischer, Whitney Cummings, John Mulaney, Mike Birbiglia, Nick Kroll, & Fred Armisen.
Each event is tailored to the city, with local artists, food vendors, and partners ensuring the fest feels personal and unique.
What’s New in 2025
What’s already GREAT just gets greater every year with upgraded activations, viewing areas, video screen & sound quality enhancements!
- HOT FOOD DELIVERY: VIP Table delivery service and VIP Club ticket holders will include some hot food options!
- BUNDLED 3-DAY PASS TICKET OPTIONS: Save big, laugh big! Enjoy a full weekend of comedy at a great price. Available for all ticket types with very limited quantities! Upgradeable, evening and matinee shows, Transferable, and a massive saving! Buy Now!
- SKIP+ FASTPASS: Skip the line and get back to the laughs! Available for all Skip+ GA and VIP ticket holders.
- REDUCED TICKETING FEES: Save big with reduced ticket fees – laugh more, pay less at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival!
- SELF UPGRADES: Upgrade your experience and enjoy the extra perks straight from your Tixr account!
- MORE DRINK OPTIONS: Enjoy premium spirits in the VIP sections, additional non-alcoholic options, and wine!
- FREE WIFI for VIP ticket holders so you can stay connected site-wide.
Why Outdoor Comedy Hits Different
There’s something magical about laughing in the open air. Forget cramped comedy clubs and drink minimums—this is laughter with a breeze in your hair and a skyline in your view. Here’s why WE love it!
- It’s a vibe: Think music festival meets stand-up.
- Comfort and choice: Bring your own lawn chair or go VIP with tables and full service.
- Food trucks and beverages: Craft beer, local bites, and even gourmet options.
- Beautiful backdrops: Parks, riverbanks, and sunsets set the scene for a summer night to remember.
Plus, it’s the kind of event where everyone’s smiling—before the first joke even lands.
A Laugh for a Good Cause
Sure, GOCF is fun—but it’s also meaningful. The festival takes community impact seriously, donating over $500,000 to local charities since its inception. Each city benefits from the Great Outdoors Community Fund, supporting groups like:
- Edmonton: YOUCAN Youth Services
- Winnipeg: Gas Station Arts Centre
- Halifax: Canadian Progress Club – Halifax
- Calgary: Calgary Young People’s Theatre
- Vancouver: The Improv Centre
- Spokane/All: Comedy Gives Back
So yes, your ticket helps bring joy to more than just your group chat.
The VIP Treatment (and Other Perks)
The festival makes the experience as smooth as it is funny. Thanks to smart partnerships (hello, Tixr), GOCF offers:
- Flexible ticket options: From General Admission to VIP Club and 3-day passes.
- Mobile ordering: Drinks, food, even chairs delivered to your seat.
- Upgrades galore: Extra perks, early access, and front-row views.
- Accessible and inclusive: Fully wheelchair-friendly, all-ages fun, and a zero-tolerance harassment policy.
Even the bathrooms are nice. Really.
Ticket Tiers for Every Type of Comedy Fan
No matter your budget or bougie level, there’s a way in. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- General Admission (GA) – Basic access, bring your own chair.
- Skip+ GA – Early entry, separate lines, and first access to the bars and food trucks.
- VIP Tables – Reserved seating, close to the stage, table service.
- VIP Club – Early entry, premium lounge, private bar, comfy chairs, and A+ views.
- 3-Day Pass – Go full comedy marathoner and see it all.
Prices vary per city, but with multiple acts per night, it’s a great value—especially compared to solo theatre tours.
Don’t Just Take Our Word for It…
Festivalgoers rave about GOCF on social media and Reddit:
“Genuinely one of the best weekends of my life.”
“Worth every penny. I laughed so hard I pulled a muscle.”
“It’s like summer camp for adults… but with better drinks and more jokes.”
When was the last time you heard that about a comedy show?
So, Should You Go?
Yes. A thousand times yes. We try to go every year in our home city of Calgary, but it would be a bucket-list experience to see it in every city from coast to coast!
The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival is more than just a night out—it’s a celebration of connection, creativity, and joy. It’s where hilarious meets heartfelt. Where Canada’s best landscapes meet its best comedians. Where strangers become friends between sets.
Whether you’re a comedy connoisseur, a festival junkie, or just looking for something new to do this summer, GOCF is your golden ticket to good times and great laughs.
Ready to Laugh Under the Stars?
Check out the lineup, grab your crew, and get your tickets at greatoutdoorscomedyfestival.com.
Because life’s too short not to laugh at a grown man in a lawn chair wearing a Bert Kreischer tank top.
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