Denver has become one of the best cities in the country for stand-up comedy, and the open mic scene is where it all starts. From legendary clubs like Comedy Works to underground rooms in Five Points, Denver comics have multiple stages available every night of the week. Whether you are working on your first five minutes or polishing a festival set, these are the comedy open mics that will sharpen your craft.
The Denver Comedy Open Mic Scene
Denver comedy has exploded in the last decade. The city now hosts more comedy open mics per capita than most major markets, drawing talent from across the Front Range. The comedy community here is collaborative rather than cutthroat. You will find established headliners dropping in to work out new bits alongside first-timers getting their first laughs. Most comedy open mics offer five-minute sets with a bucket draw or sign-up sheet format.
What to Expect at a Comedy Open Mic
Comedy open mics typically run 90 minutes to two hours. Sign up early because lists fill fast at popular rooms. You will get three to five minutes for your set, sometimes more at less crowded mics. Bring a notebook and a timer. Record your sets when possible. The audience is usually other comics plus friends and walk-ins. Do not be discouraged by small crowds because every working comedian started with empty rooms. Denver audiences are warm and will laugh if the material lands.
Growing Your Comedy Career in Denver
Use open mics as your laboratory. Hit multiple mics per week to test and refine material. Once you have a solid 10-minute set, start looking at booked shows and showcases. Denver has a clear path from open mic to featured spots to headlining. Network with other comics, support their shows, and the opportunities will come. Many Denver comics who started at local open mics now tour nationally.
Comedy Open Mics in Denver
Browse all 6 venues below, organized by day of the week. Click any venue for full details including address, schedule, and sign-up information.
Monday 1
Lion's Lair - Comedy
Comedy open mic hosted by Anthony Crawford. Sign up 10pm, show 10:30pm. 21+, no cover.
Tuesday 1
Comedy Works - New Talent Night
Weekly showcase of up-and-coming comedians. $12. Call 303-477-7844 to sign up (curated list, 8-10 week wait). 18+.
Wednesday 2
RISE Comedy - Sunday
Tag You're It! Open Mic at 6pm, Anecdotal Open Mic at 8pm.
RISE Comedy - Wednesday
RISE & Shine Comedy Open Mic. Sign up 7:30pm, 4 min sets. Pay what you want. 18+.
Thursday 2
The Monkey Barrel
Open Mic @ Vybe
Hosted by David Mota.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I do stand-up comedy open mic in Denver?
Denver has comedy open mics every night of the week at venues ranging from dedicated comedy clubs to bars, breweries, and underground rooms. Popular spots include Comedy Works New Talent Night, Denver Comedy Underground, RISE Comedy, and multiple indie shows across town.
How do I sign up for a comedy open mic in Denver?
Most Denver comedy open mics use either a sign-up sheet or bucket draw. Arrive 30 to 60 minutes before showtime to put your name on the list. Some venues like Denver Comedy Underground have a sign-up window. A few mics accept online sign-ups in advance.
How long is a comedy open mic set?
Standard comedy open mic sets in Denver are 3 to 5 minutes. Some mics offer longer sets of up to 8 minutes depending on the number of comics signed up. Always respect your time and get off stage when your light comes on.
Find Your Stage
Denver Open Mic is the most complete directory of open mic nights in the Denver metro area. Search by type, day, or location to find your perfect stage.