From February 4 to 22, 2026, families can enjoy more laughter than ever at the UK Kids' Comedy Festival. Featuring over 70 shows across 30 venues in Leicester and nearby areas, the festival offers children aged 4 to 14 a vibrant mix of performances, workshops, and interactive opportunities to inspire creativity and confidence.
- Over 70 shows from 4–22 February 2026 across 30 venues
- Workshops and interactive events to nurture young performers
- Festival aims to promote creativity, confidence, and wellbeing
What happened
The UK Kids’ Comedy Festival has announced its programme for February 2026, marking its eighth edition with its largest and most varied line-up to date. Running for nearly three weeks, the festival presents 70 shows across 30 venues in Leicester and neighboring areas, tailored specifically for children aged 4 to 14. This includes headline shows such as Marcel Lucont’s new game show-themed act and Olaf Falafel’s uniquely silly performance.
In addition to live comedy, the festival offers dynamic workshops like Laugh Academy, where older children learn to write and perform their own material, and participatory initiatives such as The Joke Spot, which invites kids to share jokes on public stages. The Kids’ Gala Preview Show in December 2025 will preview some of the festival’s highlights, featuring musical performances and hosted by popular children’s entertainer Edy Hurst.
Why it feels good
The UK Kids’ Comedy Festival is more than just entertainment; it’s a space that encourages young audiences to develop confidence, social skills, and creative expression through humor. By integrating education and participation alongside performances, the festival supports mental well-being and personal growth in a welcoming, joyful environment.
Organizers emphasize accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that comedy remains an art form accessible to families from all backgrounds. The involvement of community partners and local schools helps to foster a sense of belonging and shared fun, making the festival a cherished event for families in Leicester and beyond.
What to enjoy or watch next
Families can look forward to a rich variety of shows during the festival dates, featuring a mix of established comedians and emerging young talent. The Comedy Club 4 Kids and other mixed-bill performances promise laughs for all ages, while workshops offer hands-on experiences for children interested in the art of comedy.
Beyond the UK Kids’ Comedy Festival, the larger Leicester Comedy Festival continues to thrive with hundreds of shows across 76 venues. Both festivals run in tandem, offering entertainment options for wider family audiences and comedy lovers of all ages throughout February 2026.