Free Family-Friendly Comedy Returns to Downtown Grimsby This August

Downtown Grimsby, in collaboration with the Garden City Comedy Festival, is bringing live stand-up comedy to Coronation Park with the return of Comedy Nights in Grimsby, a free, family-friendly outdoor entertainment series taking place every Wednesday in August beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Hosted by comedian David Green and produced by the Garden City Comedy Festival, Comedy Nights transforms Coronation Park into an open-air comedy venue featuring stand-up performances from some of Canada's top comedians and rising talent.

“Comedy Nights is all about creating a space where the community can come together and enjoy great live comedy right here in Grimsby,” said host David Green. “We’ve got an incredible lineup this year, and I’m excited to help bring big laughs to Coronation Park all month long.”

A returning summer favourite, Comedy Nights have become a highlight of Grimsby's seasonal event lineup, offering high-quality entertainment that's appropriate and hilarious for all. In the event of inclement weather, performances will be moved indoors to Station 1 Coffeehouse at 28 Main St E, with an announcement posted via social media (@DowntownGrimsby) approximately an hour before the show to ensure the laughs continue rain or shine.

While the Downtown Reimagined Project is ongoing, Downtown Grimsby remains open, with construction carefully phased to maintain access for businesses, residents and visitors while minimizing disruption. Gather with family and friends to enjoy an evening of laughter in the downtown core.

“Comedy Nights is the perfect reason to head downtown and see what’s going on,” said Mark Wood, Chair of Downtown Grimsby. “Yes, the construction is happening but downtown is definitely still open. So please, come on down, support our local businesses, and join us for a few laughs in the park every Wednesday this August.”

Founded in 2018, the Garden City Comedy Festival is a celebration of all things funny in Niagara. Each spring, the festival brings together some of Canada's funniest comedians, highlighted by its signature Gala Night at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre. Beyond the annual festival, the organization produces comedy events throughout the year, delivering premier live entertainment across the Niagara region. The Garden City Comedy Festival also provides a platform for both established and emerging comedians to showcase their talent while supporting local organizations through fundraising initiatives.

2026 Comedy Nights Lineup

Wednesday, August 5 – 7:00 p.m.

Headliner: Paul Haywood

Featuring Chris Jarvie, Kate Hingston, and Luke West

Wednesday, August 12 – 7:00 p.m.

Headliner: Evan Carter

Featuring Gerry Hall, Aaron Boyd, and Silvi Santoso

Wednesday, August 19 – 7:00 p.m.

Headliner: Ronnie Edwards

Featuring Keh Dee, Sean Creighton, and Gianna Gatto

Wednesday, August 26 – 7:00 p.m.

Headliner: Larry Smith

Featuring Jimmy England, Kristian Reimer, and Heather Fudge

Comedy Nights are free to attend and open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring a lawn chair or blanket, and make an evening of it by visiting Downtown Grimsby businesses, which remain open throughout the Downtown Reimagined construction project.