If you’re looking for a perfect blend of autumn in New England and side-splitting comedy, the Rogue Island Comedy Festival – Fall Edition is calling your name. From October 9–12, 2025, the festival transforms Newport and Portsmouth, Rhode Island, into a comedy hot spot, with shows staged in vineyards, theaters, and cozy clubs across Aquidneck Island.
Now in its 10th year, Rogue Island Comedy Festival has grown into a must-see event for comedy lovers across the Northeast. What started as a small showcase for up-and-coming comics has become a biannual tradition that attracts nationally recognized headliners while still spotlighting local talent. With both a spring and fall edition each year, the fall festival has a unique magic: crisp ocean air, colorful foliage, and venues that make every show feel intimate and personal.
A Stellar Lineup
This fall’s lineup features a mix of nationally touring comedians, rising stars, and regional favorites. Past festivals have hosted names like Nikki Glaser, Mark Normand, and Josh Gondelman, and 2025 promises more heavy hitters. You can expect sets from Kyle Dunnigan, known for his sharp impressions and hilarious characters, as well as Ray Harrington, a New England favorite with a loyal following.
But the beauty of Rogue Island is its dedication to variety. You’re just as likely to stumble onto a new favorite comic as you are to see a household name. The festival prides itself on curating a mix that keeps audiences on their toes—no two shows are exactly alike.
Unique Venues
Part of what makes this festival stand out is the setting. Imagine sipping a glass of wine at a local vineyard while watching comics deliver punchlines against the backdrop of fall foliage. Or grabbing a seat in a historic Newport theater where the laughter fills the room like music. Venues range from rustic barns to bustling breweries, giving each show its own personality.
This approach makes Rogue Island feel less like a single event and more like a comedy adventure. Attendees can hop from one type of space to another, all while exploring the beauty of coastal Rhode Island.
Why You Should Go
The Rogue Island Comedy Festival isn’t just about laughs—it’s about community. Festival founder Doug Key, a comedian himself, created it to showcase talent in a region that doesn’t often get big comedy tours. Over the years, it’s become a platform for comics to test material, connect with audiences, and keep the New England comedy scene thriving.
For attendees, it’s an immersive experience. You’ll share tables with fellow fans, mingle with comics after shows, and soak in the festival atmosphere. Pair it with a weekend getaway in Newport—complete with seaside dining, lighthouse views, and autumn strolls—and you’ve got a perfect fall trip.
Festival Essentials
- Dates: October 9–12, 2025
- Locations: Newport & Portsmouth, Rhode Island
- Tickets: Available online; shows often sell out, so grab them early
- Tip: Make a weekend of it—book accommodations in Newport and enjoy all the city has to offer between shows
The Rogue Island Comedy Festival – Fall Edition is more than just a series of shows; it’s an experience that celebrates humor, community, and the charm of New England in the fall. If you’re ready for crisp air, roaring laughter, and a festival vibe unlike any other, this is the weekend getaway you need.