If your kids love to laugh, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is one of the most fun family outings in Melbourne during the Easter school holidays.
Every year, the city fills with comedians, street performers, circus acts and magical mayhem. And the good news for parents? There’s a huge line-up of shows designed especially for kids and families.
From free outdoor performances to hilarious stage shows, the festival makes it easy to introduce children to live comedy. Expect silly jokes, high-energy performers, visual comedy and plenty of interactive fun.
If you’re planning to attend the MICF with kids in 2026, here’s everything you need to know.
When is the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF 2026)?
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival runs from 25 March to 19 April 2026, perfectly lining up with the Easter break and Victorian school holidays.
That means plenty of daytime shows aimed at younger audiences. Many performances are designed for kids aged 5+, while others are ideal for the whole family.
It’s also a great excuse to plan a fun day out in the city.
Free Family Fun: The (Very) Big Laugh Out
One of the best parts of the festival for families is The (Very) Big Laugh Out — a series of free outdoor comedy shows packed with circus tricks, physical comedy and street theatre.
In 2026 the program returns to Federation Square and expands into the newly reopened City Square (outside Town Hall station).
Expect energetic performers, plenty of audience participation and lots of laugh-out-loud moments.
Key dates to know
- Good Friday – 3 April: Free showcase at Federation Square
- Saturday 4 April: Another jam-packed free showcase
- 10–18 April: Free performances every Friday and Saturday at City Square
Street performers, stand-up comedians and musical acts will rotate throughout the program. Past performances have included juggling, comedy magic, silly dance routines and circus tricks.
Kids love the playful atmosphere. Parents love the price tag.
Best Comedy Festival Shows for Kids
Beyond the free outdoor performances, there are almost 50 family-friendly shows across Melbourne during the festival.
Here are some highlights to look out for.
1. Circus, Comedy and High-Energy Spectacle
At Melbourne Town Hall, families can catch some of the festival’s most energetic performances.
Expect:
- Circus Oz – a spectacular mix of circus skills and comedy
- Trash Test Dummies – hilarious slapstick with incredible tricks
- Mojo & Jimmy – silly humour and interactive fun
These shows are usually fast-paced and visual, which makes them perfect for younger audiences.
2. Imaginative Comedy at Melbourne Museum
Over at Melbourne Museum, the focus shifts to storytelling, creativity and interactive comedy.
Highlights include:
- Comedy Club for Kids – a variety show packed with jokes and mini performances
- Bubble Show in Space – a whimsical adventure filled with giant bubbles
- Aboriginal Comedy Allstars – special kids performances featuring hilarious storytelling
- The Listies – returning favourites known for chaotic, laugh-filled shows
If your kids love silly stories and imaginative characters, this is a great venue to start.
3. Magic, Circus and Absurd Fun at ACMI
The program at ACMI leans into magic, theatrical comedy and visual spectacle.
Shows to watch for include:
- Camp Culture – a bold circus adventure with flips and comedy
- Barry Potter and the Magic of Wizardry
- Playhouse Pantomimes
- Tricky Nick Magic Show
- Winni Wizard and her Magical Smells
These shows are perfect for younger kids who enjoy visual humour and magical surprises.
4. Festival Favourites Kids Love
Some performers return year after year because kids can’t get enough of them.
Look out for acts like:
These shows mix comedy with music, science, puppetry or circus skills — keeping kids entertained from start to finish.
Tips for Visiting the Comedy Festival With Kids
Planning ahead can make your family comedy adventure even better.
Book popular shows early
The most popular kids’ shows often sell out quickly, especially during school holidays.
Choose daytime sessions
Morning and afternoon shows are ideal for younger kids.
Check age recommendations
Most shows include suggested ages. This helps you pick something your kids will genuinely enjoy.
Mix free and ticketed events
Start with a free outdoor show, then book a ticketed performance afterwards.
Make a day of it
Many venues are within walking distance in the CBD, making it easy to see a show and explore the city.
Why Kids Love the Comedy Festival
Live comedy is different from watching a movie or TV show. Kids get to laugh, shout out answers and sometimes even join the act on stage.
For many families, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival becomes an annual tradition.
It’s silly, surprising and full of moments your kids will talk about long after the show ends.
And honestly? Watching your kids laugh uncontrollably might be the best part of all.
