The Harlem Comedy Festival

The first annual Harlem Comedy Festival is a 6-day celebration of the best African-American and Latino talent in New York City. The rich tradition of Harlem comedy can not only be found in the hallowed walls of the Apollo, but also in the small club tradition at venues such as The Baby Grand, Club Barron, The Palm Café, and Small’s Paradise.

Some noteworthy comedians who came from Harlem include: Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, Belle Barth, Godfrey Cambridge, Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Chris Harvey, Dick Gregory, Sinbad, Freddie Prinze, Nipsey Russell, LaWanda Page, Allen Drew, Chris Tucker, Scatman Crouthers, Marsha Warfield, Pigmeat Markham, Franklyn Ajaye, Moms Maybley, DL Hugley, Flip Wilson, Dave Chappelle, Pablo Francisco, Jimmy Walker, George Kirby, Arsenio Hall, and Bill Cosby.