Editor’s Note:This post has been updated. Ri Ra Irish Pub has closed down, and has been removed from this listing.
By Rachel Sandler
The NoVA comedy scene is as vibrant as ever. Whether it’s a seasoned comic stopping by on a national tour or a first-time hopeful trying out a new set, these places are the comedy hubs of Northern Virginia.
If you want to see the pros:
The Workhouse Arts Center
The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton has a slew of artists and performances lined up for this summer, which include stand-up from Cool Cow Comedy, a local comedy collective bringing national and local acts to NoVA. The usually packed shows, which are held every month, are the only chances to see comedy shows at the Workhouse. On June 20, the venue will host Matt Koff, a staff writer from “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”. Comedian Carmen Lynch, who has worked on “Inside Amy Schumer,” will be coming on July 17 and 18. 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton
Comedy Zone
Located in Crystal City, the Comedy Zone at the DoubleTree Hotel’s Windows Over Washington restaurant hosts a comedy and variety show on Friday and Saturday night, complete with stand-up acts and a magician to open up the show. Although they might not be household names, each headliner is an experienced, nationally touring act. 300 Army Navy Drive, Arlington
The State Theatre
The State Theatre in Falls Church hosts mostly local comedians and, on special occasions, nationally touring acts. On $5 Comedy Nights, which are held intermittently throughout the year, the venue allows local comedians from the NoVA and D.C. area to come and do stand-up. 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church
If you want to see your neighbor tell some jokes:
Open Mic at the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse
Although the Drafthouse regularly hosts big-name comedy acts, amateur and local comedians have the opportunity to perform at open-mic nights in The Green Room, which is located inside the Drafthouse. Fifteen comedians do stand-up, so the show is long and usually lasts until midnight. Admission is free. 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington
Jolley’s Restaurant and Lounge
This hole-in-the-wall Ethiopian restaurant in Alexandria hosts a comedy open-mic night every Tuesday. It’s hosted by local comedian Travis Spencer, and all comedians are welcome to try, no matter their skill level or experience. 654 S. Pickett St., Alexandria
Epicure Cafe
The Epicure Cafe hosts a popular open-mic night on Mondays and Thursdays. Although most of the acts of music related, amateur comedy acts can perform as well. Thursdays are the most crowded, and spots typically fill up quickly. 11104 Lee Highway, Fairfax
King’s Tavern and Wine Bar
Every Friday until 1:30 a.m., King’s Tavern and Wine Bar has an energetic night with both musical and comedy acts from amateur comedians. The event usually features a local musician, but anyone can try doing some stand-up as well. 19 S. King St., Leesburg
Tortoise and the Hare Bar
The Tortoise and the Hare Bar in Arlington has a comedy open mic night every Tuesday at 10 p.m. The comedy portion of the evening comes after the bar’s trivia night, which starts at 8 p.m. 567 S. 23rd St., Arlington
