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NATTIONAL ACTS. LOCAL LEGENDS.
UNFORGETTABLE FESTIVAL
The Grindstone Comedy Festival is an annual stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy festival rooted in Edmonton and dedicated to showcasing Canadian talent.
As part of a non-profit organization, the festival exists to support artists, create opportunities, and connect audiences with both established and emerging voices in comedy. From acclaimed Canadian comedians like Jon Dore, Robby Hoffman, Graham Clark, Chris Locke, and Bruce McCulloch, to rising local artists from Edmonton and across Alberta, the festival brings together a diverse lineup in one shared spotlight.
Built by the community, for the community, the Grindstone Comedy Festival is where you discover your new favourite comedian.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
KATHLEEN MCGEE
We proudly honour Kathleen McGee, a beloved Edmonton comedian, co-founder, and former artist liaison of the Grindstone Comedy Festival. Kathleen was a driving force behind the festival’s early growth, helping shape it into the community-centered celebration it is today. Her passion for comedy, commitment to artists, and unmistakable voice left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working with her.
An acclaimed Canadian stand-up comedian, Kathleen was known for her sharp, fearless humor and was nominated for a Canadian Comedy Award for her performance at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival. Her debut album Deliciously Vulgarfurther cemented her place as a powerful and original voice in comedy.
Following her passing in November 2024, we continue to celebrate her legacy each year through the “Kathleen McGee I’ll Do It Myself Award,” honouring her spirit, determination, and trailblazing impact. Kathleen will always be part of this festival, and her influence continues to inspire the artists and community she helped build.
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King of the Hill Improv Competition pits top up-and-coming improv comedians from Edmonton and across Western Canada against each other for a chance at ultimate glory. Over 5 weeks of preliminary rounds improvisers will play in our King of the Hill format, using audience suggestions to create characters, scenes and comedy sketches on the spot. Two finalists each week will be crowned by points assigned through our judges and continue to the final battle at Grindstone Comedy Fest 2026, with the finalist being crowned Grindstone Comedy Fest's Improviser of the Year!
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The Grindstone Stand-Up Stand-Off pits up-and-coming comedians from Edmonton and across Western Canada against each other for a chance at glory, $1000 in prizes and a shot at the festival main stage.
Each comic gets five minutes to bring their best jokes. One finalist each week will be chosen by our panel of comedy judges, and another will be voted through by our discerning live comedy audience. Don’t miss the one time this year when your vote will actually matter!