SF Sketchfest Announces a Packed and Star-Studded Lineup for Its 2026 Comedy Festival in San Francisco

SF Sketchfest has officially revealed its 2026 festival lineup, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions yet. Now entering its 23rd year, the beloved San Francisco comedy showcase returns January 15 to February 1, 2026, bringing more than 500 performers for over 200 shows across a wide range of venues throughout the city. Fans can expect everything from sketch and stand-up to improv, music, live podcasts, special tributes and unique one-night-only events. Tickets go on sale Sunday, November 16 at 10 a.m. on the festival’s official website, SF Sketchfest.

One of the highlights of the upcoming festival is a pair of major reunion events. The first is a celebratory 30th-anniversary live read of the cult-favorite “Brain Candy” from Kids in the Hall, giving longtime followers a rare chance to see the classic film revisited on stage. The second big reunion is a special tribute to the women of Saturday Night Live, bringing together iconic cast members including Rachel Dratch, Cheri Oteri, Ana Gasteyer, and others for a night that celebrates their lasting comedic impact.

The lineup continues to stack up with a mix of returning favorites and fresh names. Comedy fans can look forward to appearances by Randall Park, Maria Bamford, Janeane Garofalo, Chelsea Peretti, John Hodgman, Adam Savage, and Doug Benson, each contributing to different shows across the festival dates. These performers cover a wide range of comedic styles, ensuring there’s something for every kind of audience member.

Shows will take place throughout popular San Francisco venues, including well-known comedy hubs such as Cobb’s Comedy Club and The Punch Line, as well as music and theater venues like the Great American Music Hall and the Sydney Goldstein Theater. This spread across the city helps maintain Sketchfest’s signature atmosphere—an energetic blend of local culture, historic spaces and enthusiastic comedy crowds.

Beyond its big reunions, SF Sketchfest 2026 will continue to showcase the festival’s signature blend of genres. Expect a mix of sketch comedy, stand-up sets, improv shows, music-driven performances, live podcast recordings, and other special events. Over two decades, the festival has built a reputation for bringing together unexpected combinations of performers, surprise guest appearances, and nostalgic tributes to films and TV shows with dedicated fanbases. The 2026 lineup continues that spirit with an even more expansive slate.

The festival’s timing makes it one of the first major comedy events of the year, drawing performers from all over the world. With its long-running history, diverse programming and enthusiastic audiences, SF Sketchfest remains one of San Francisco’s most anticipated annual events. Those planning to attend should keep an eye on the official schedule as more detailed programming updates become available.

With major reunions, star performers and a full range of comedy genres represented, the 2026 SF Sketchfest promises an exciting, talent-packed experience for comedy fans both local and traveling in. Make sure to grab tickets early—events like these tend to sell out quickly once the full schedule goes live.