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So What is Seattle Sketchfest?
Our History:
In 1999, our founder, Seattle performer and writer Mike Daisey, saw an emerging circle of sketch comedians developing in the city, and decided to create Seattle SketchFest to showcase the new community.
Sketchfest ‘99 presented nine Seattle comedy troupes performing 8-minute samplers to sold-out audiences at Theater Off Jackson, and we've been going ever since.
In 2018, we found our new home at Unexpected Productions as part of their annual programming. They've been our regular venue, benefactor, and parent company, and we're thrilled to be working with a pillar of the Seattle comedy community to make you laugh.
Today:
Now going strong for over 25 years, Seattle Sketchfest thrives off the small yet mighty sketch comedy scene alive today in the city. Our yearly festival occurs in September where we see home grown Pacific Northwest comedians, as well as groups from around the country and internationally (looking at you Canada!).
Outside of our annual festival, Seattle Sketchfest produces a handful of shows and events throughout the year. If you’re interested in seeing what the hype is about, check out the calendar of events on our homepage to see what’s coming up!
Your Questions, Answered
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Read all about Sketch Comedy here!
A sketch is a short, fully scripted, comedic scene. Each show in Seattle SketchFest has been written and rehearsed by the performers you see.
“SNL” and “I Think You Should Leave” are great examples of sketch comedy on TV today!
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no we worked really hard on this
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Our 2026 festival will run September 24th–27th at the Unexpected Productions Market Theater.
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Line up will be announced mid July! Check out the past show line ups HERE.
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Sure! We do have a few requirements, read all about our submission process HERE.
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Submission for the 2026 festival will be open April 1st–July 4th.
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Yes! No prior sketch experience necessary. Join our team for a day, a month, or a year. Email info@sketchfest.org or fill our our Volunteer Form.
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Unexpected Productions Market Theater, for more information about the theater, see our Know Before You Go section below!
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We’re happy to answer! Send us an email at info@sketchfest.org.
Know Before You Go
Unexpected Productions Theater
Address:
1428 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101, located in the iconic alley of Seattle Gum Wall.
Transportation:
Parking: There is no designated parking for the theater. There is a nearby parking garage at 1531 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101. Parking is $7 after 5pm.
Light rail: The closest light rail stations are Westlake Station and Symphony Station. From there it is a 7 minute walk to the theater (.3 miles).
Bus: Please refer to King County Metro or Google Maps to plan your bus trip here.
Accessibility:
The theater is fully ADA accessible. Please note the entrance into the theater (Post Alley) is a cobblestone path and can be a bit uneven. Please let us know if you have any concerns.
Food and Beverage:
The theater has a full bar featuring craft beers, alcohol, and wine. Soft drinks and bottled water are available, as well as popcorn, assorted chips, and candy are available for purchase.
Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out at info@sketchfest.org. See you there!
Our Sponsors
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Our Sponsors -
We'd like to thank all the sponsors that support Seattle Sketchfest and allow us to keep doing what we're doing. Sponsors directly support our mission of creating a supportive, fun, and funny comedy community by providing funds for performer perks like after-parties, snacks and swag bags, as well as paying our performers and staff. Any funds or goods-in-kind are welcome; in exchange, you'll get a logo on our website, your logo on our slideshow that plays before every show, and a personal shout-out by our show hosts to our audiences of 1000+.
Interested in becoming a sponsor and supporting live comedy? You can contact us at info@sketchfest.org.
