Big Name Comedians Headed to Portland, Maine, in 2026

From David Sedaris to Jay Leno, the city's top venues will host a star-studded comedy lineup next year.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:11pm

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Several high-profile comedians have already announced shows in Portland, Maine, for 2026, with more likely to be added as the year progresses. The lineup includes David Sedaris, Nick Offerman, Rodney Carrington, Tig Notaro, the Killers of Kill Tony, Fortune Feimster, Kathleen Madigan, Ilana Glazer, Tom Papa, Kathy Griffin, and Jay Leno, who will be performing at venues like the Merrill Auditorium and State Theatre.

Why it matters

Portland has established itself as a premier comedy destination, attracting top talent from across the country. These upcoming shows will provide residents and visitors alike with ample opportunities to enjoy world-class stand-up and live entertainment in the city.

The details

The comedy lineup kicks off on April 8 with humorist David Sedaris at the Merrill Auditorium, followed by Parks & Rec star Nick Offerman on April 16. Country-tinged comedian Rodney Carrington takes the stage at the State Theatre on April 23, while storyteller Tig Notaro performs a pair of shows there on April 25. Members of the popular Kill Tony podcast, "The Killers of Kill Tony," arrive at the Merrill on May 2. Fortune Feimster brings her "Takin' Care of Biscuits" tour to the Merrill for two nights on June 18-19, and Kathleen Madigan's "Flying Cats & Marching Armadillos" show hits the State Theatre on August 8. Broad City's Ilana Glazer performs at the State on August 19, Tom Papa's "Grateful Bread" tour stops at the State on September 12, Kathy Griffin's "New Face, New Tour" comes to the Merrill on October 2, and Jay Leno wraps up the year at the Merrill on November 7.

  • The comedy lineup kicks off on April 8, 2026.
  • Nick Offerman performs on April 16, 2026.
  • Rodney Carrington takes the stage on April 23, 2026.
  • Tig Notaro performs on April 25, 2026.
  • The Killers of Kill Tony arrive on May 2, 2026.

The players

David Sedaris

A humorist, author, and radio contributor known for his deadpan delivery.

Nick Offerman

Best recognized for his role in NBC's Parks & Recreation, he is bringing a unique stand-up experience to Portland.

Rodney Carrington

A comedian who has made a career blending sarcastic comedy with original country music.

Tig Notaro

A humorist and storyteller returning to Portland with her latest stand-up tour, "Out of Nowhere".

The Killers of Kill Tony

Members of the popular podcast "Kill Tony" who are embarking on a nationwide tour to bring their dark humor to stages across the country.

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The takeaway

Portland's comedy scene continues to thrive, attracting top talent from across the country and providing residents and visitors with a diverse lineup of stand-up shows and live entertainment options in 2026.