Sir Billy Connolly once said Glasgow "is the funniest city in the world, bar none." This week, the city is out to prove him right — again.

The Glasgow International Comedy Festival, one of Europe's largest, enters its final stretch from 21–29 March with hundreds of shows still to catch across 40 venues. Whether you're after arena-scale spectacle or an intimate basement belly laugh, there's something brilliant on every night. Here are the shows you shouldn't miss.

Daniel Sloss: Bitter — SEC Armadillo, Sat 28 March, 8:30pm

Scotland's international comedy superstar brings his 13th solo show to the Armadillo. Sloss has toured 55 countries and sold out nine off-Broadway seasons in New York. His new show Bitter promises to be devastatingly sharp — grab tickets while you can. Ages 16+.

Karen Dunbar: The Glesga Special — Citizens Theatre, Wed 25 March, 7:30pm

A genuine Scottish comedy legend returns to the stage. Karen Dunbar — star of Chewin' the Fat and The Karen Dunbar Show — plays the newly revamped Citizens Theatre. From Glasgow pubs to the National Theatre, from opening the Commonwealth Games to DJ sets at TRNSMT and Ibiza, Dunbar is a force of nature. Don't miss this hometown show. Ages 14+.

Jeff Dunham: Artificial Intelligence — OVO Hydro, Wed 25 March, 7:30pm

The world's most famous ventriloquist brings Walter, Peanut, Achmed, and Bubba J to the Hydro for a massive arena show. Dunham's Artificial Intelligence tour has left millions crying with laughter, and this Glasgow date includes special UK-only guests. Perfect for a blockbuster comedy night. Ages 14+.

Alan Davies: Think Ahead — King's Theatre, Sun 29 March, 7:30pm

The festival's closing night gets a proper send-off. Alan Davies, returning to Glasgow for his first gig in over a decade, brings his new show about the joys and indignities of late middle age — pharmacy trips, eye rolls from the kids, and trying to stay relevant. The Guardian calls him "one of the best stand-up comics out there." A wonderful way to close the festival. Ages 16+.

GICF Comedy Gala 2026 — King's Theatre, Sun 29 March, 2pm

If you only see one show, make it this. The festival's grand finale packs the best of GICF onto one stage: Connor Burns, Karen Dunbar, Fred MacAulay, Mhairi Black, Des Clarke, Rosco McClelland, Amanda Dwyer, Stuart Mitchell, Susan Riddell, Jack Brookmyre, Ifrah Qureshi, and more still to be announced. Plus, Sir Billy Connolly himself picks the winner of the Spirit of Glasgow Award, announced live on stage. Outstanding value and a guaranteed good time. Ages 16+.

Best of the Fest — Max's Basement

For a more intimate experience, head underground. The Glasgow Comedy Club's Best of the Fest returns to Max's Basement for its third year, showcasing the finest acts from across the festival. This is where you'll discover the next big thing in a room small enough to feel the heat. Ages 18+.

One That Got Away: Judi Love — Oran Mor, Sat 21 March, 8pm (Sold Out)

We'd be remiss not to mention Judi Love's show All About The Love at Oran Mor — but it sold out fast. If you spot a return ticket, pounce. The Evening Standard called her "not so much a comic, more a force of nature."

How to Catch the Last Laughs

Tickets for most shows are available at glasgowcomedyfestival.com. With 560 shows spread across 19 days and over 100,000 tickets, there's still plenty to choose from — but the best seats won't last the week. The festival wraps for good on Sunday 29 March.

Glasgow earned its reputation as the comedy capital of the world one punchline at a time. This is your last week to be part of it.