You know what LaughFest loves more than breaking world records? (I'll tell you later.) But the journey to that answer starts on Mar. 5, when LaughFest will once again be bringing the community together to kick off the festival with fun and festivities…and hopefully setting another world record!
In downtown Grand Rapids Thursday night LaughFest 2015 kicks off by attempting to set another world record attempt for the
Most People Wearing Paper Crowns, which currently stands at 1,324. It all starts at 5 p.m. Details on participating can be located here.
While some shows are sold out, others still have tickets so the opportunity to see a fresh comic face in your hometown is really still possible. Might I suggest Jim Jefferies if you like your comedy a bit dirty, Wanda Sykes if a strong black woman is your flavor, or maybe current TV star Cristela Alonzo, the first Latina to create, produce and star in a network TV sitcom, “Cristela.” There is even a local media
"celebrity" lip sync competition being hosted by yours truly on Sunday, May 8.
The cost varies for many of these comedians and special programs, but more than 200 events happening at LaughFest offer free admission because of the generous spirit of our region's sponsors who understand the power of LaughFest to change our community's attitude. Comedy is powerful.
Some of the most exciting programming to come out of LaughFest includes programs like
laughter for the health of it, individual and showcase stand-up acts, improv performances, comic films, funny authors, community-focused showcases, and a variety of seriously funny stuff aimed at their mission to not just break records but ultimately support
Gilda's Club mission to provide support to our community's members dealing with cancer and grief.
And the breaking of a cycle that causes so much pain is why LaughFest is my favorite festival in Grand Rapids. When art can cross over and touch so many people to make their lives better, well, that, my good friends, is what makes the art of laughter so wonderful to welcome here in our community each year.
Admission: Varies – see
website for details.