Following the success of the last two years, NOMAD and Creatures Comedy Club announce the third instalment of Creatures Comedy Festival. Taking place from 23rd July to 1st August 2026 at Creatures Comedy Club, the festival will focus on creating a space outside of London for acts to preview before Edinburgh Fringe, giving Manchester residents exclusive access to shows before they hit the world’s biggest arts festival in August.

Kicking off the summer, the festival will host over 25 shows, showcasing the hottest rising talent from the North West as well as welcoming household names. The first star-studded line up includes: Catherine Bohart, Brennan Reece, Dan Tiernan, Milo Edwards and a top secret Taskmaster star.

The proudly northern festival will host a Northern Takeover on Sunday 26th July presenting the most exciting names to come out of the north of England. The day will culminate in the final of Creatures Comedian Of The Year 2026 where the winner of the competition will receive a slot in one of the festival showcases along with a paid weekend spot and progression opportunities at the club. This offers the chance for the winner to prove themself alongside high profile, established acts.

Last year’s lineup saw the likes of Huge Davies, Celya AB, Pierre Novellie, Brennan Reece, Rob Auton, Tiff Stevenson, Larry Dean, Lorna Rose Treen and Alex Franklin.

The festival is dedicated to showcasing rising stars of the local scene alongside bringing the biggest comics to Manchester. The festival’s aim is to celebrate the city’s growing comedy scene and establish Manchester as the UK’s next big comedy destination.