Cape Fear Comedy Festival
Every May, Wilmington transforms into a comedy destination for the Cape Fear Comedy Festival. Hosted primarily at Dead Crow Comedy Room, the festival features multiple days of shows, workshops, and the finals of Port City's Top Comic competition.
What to Expect
- National Headliners - Touring comedians you've seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, and late night
- Local Showcases - The best of Wilmington's comedy scene
- Port City's Top Comic Finals - Watch local comedians compete for the title
- Improv & Sketch Shows - DareDevil Improv and special performances
- Workshops - Learn from visiting pros
Port City's Top Comic
Running alongside the festival, the Port City's Top Comic competition crowns Wilmington's funniest comedian. Local and regional comics compete through preliminary rounds leading to the festival finals.
Cape Fear Comedy Festival
Held annually in May at Dead Crow Comedy Room and downtown Wilmington venues.
Festival InfoPast Performers
The festival has featured comedians including nationally touring headliners and rising stars from across the Southeast.
Get Involved
Want to perform at the festival? Watch for open submission calls in early spring, or get noticed at Dead Crow's open mics throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Cape Fear Comedy Festival?
The Cape Fear Comedy Festival is held annually in May at Dead Crow Comedy Room and other downtown Wilmington venues. The exact dates vary each year. Follow Dead Crow Comedy Room on social media or check their website for the 2026 festival dates and lineup announcements.
Where is the Cape Fear Comedy Festival held?
The festival is primarily hosted at Dead Crow Comedy Room at 511 N. 3rd Street in downtown Wilmington, with additional shows at other downtown venues. The downtown location makes it easy to walk between festival events and enjoy Wilmington's restaurants and bars between shows.
How much are Cape Fear Comedy Festival tickets?
Ticket prices vary by show and pass type. Individual show tickets typically range from $10 to $30, while multi-show passes and festival passes offer better value if you plan to attend multiple events. Check the Dead Crow website for current pricing as the festival approaches.
How do I perform at the Cape Fear Comedy Festival?
The festival opens submissions for performers in early spring each year. You can also increase your chances of being selected by becoming a regular at Dead Crow's open mics and local showcases throughout the year. Building a presence in the Wilmington comedy scene is the best path to a festival spot.
What is Port City's Top Comic?
Port City's Top Comic is an annual stand-up comedy competition that runs alongside the Cape Fear Comedy Festival. Local and regional comedians compete through preliminary rounds throughout the year, with the finals held during the festival. It is one of the most prestigious titles in the Wilmington comedy scene.