Every summer, Jamestown, New York — the birthplace of Lucille Ball — transforms into a haven for comedy lovers from around the globe. This year, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival 2025 promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, featuring some of the biggest names in comedy, including Jon Stewart, Bill Murray, and more.
Running from August 7 to August 10, 2025, at the National Comedy Center, the festival will host more than 50 live events including performances, workshops, meet-and-greets, and special film screenings. According to Malachi Livemore, Vice President of the Center, this year’s festival is not just a tribute to Lucille Ball but a celebration of the enduring power of comedy in American culture.
Jon Stewart, the former host of The Daily Show, will headline a special evening at the Northwest Arena on August 9. On the following day, Bill Murray and his band, the Blood Brothers, will deliver a unique comedy-infused musical performance, promising a night full of laughter and heartfelt moments.
Adding to the excitement, veteran Saturday Night Live writers Mikey Day and Streeter Seidell will host a behind-the-scenes conversation about crafting iconic sketches and how Lucille Ball’s trailblazing spirit continues to inspire modern comedy writing.
The Center will also offer family-friendly activities such as tours of the Lucille Ball Museum, acting workshops, and outdoor performances, aimed at introducing her legacy to younger generations.
Tickets will go on sale to the public on May 2, and are expected to sell out quickly, as in previous years. This year’s event will not only commemorate Lucille Ball’s incredible life but will also stand as proof that the comedic spirit she ignited continues to thrive, inspiring new generations of artists and audiences everywhere.
