The Bristol Comedy Festival raises spirits and funds for TAP for Bristol

For the second year running, the Bristol Comedy Festival proudly supported TAP for Bristol, raising £6,000 to help tackle homelessness in the city.

The 2026 Bristol Comedy Festival proved that laughter really can make a difference, raising funds for homeless prevention and emergency support, while bringing thousands of people into venues across the city.

Alongside supporting a vital local cause, the festival delivered a boost to Bristol’s hospitality and cultural sector. Across the festival, 166 shows took place in 36 venues, attracting 10,264 ticket sales and increasing footfall for participating venues during a traditionally quieter period from 15th – 31st January.

Audience members choose to either donate £3 at the point of ordering their ticket, or in the venues by using the TAP for Bristol donation points. The popular King Street Takeover also returned, with comedians performing ‘donate-what-you-want’ shows across multiple venues, with all proceeds going to TAP.

In total, the festival raised £5,826.37 through public donations, with The Bristol Comedy Festival topping this up to £6,000.

By combining live comedy from established and emerging acts with community fundraising, The Bristol Comedy Festival continues to demonstrate the positive impact cultural events can have for both local businesses and charities across the city, while also reinforcing Bristol’s growing reputation as a hub for live comedy, bringing people together and showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural scene.