Back to All Festivals

Out of Bounds Comedy Festival

Out of Bounds Comedy Festival

Nov 5 – Nov 8, 2026

Austin, TX, US

Application Fee: $25-45

Improv Sketch Musical Stand-up Clowning

Application Deadline

Jun 30, 2026

Years Running

24


Out of Bounds Comedy Festival is an annual, multi-day celebration of independent comedy held in Austin, Texas. OOB showcases a wide range of comedic styles—including improv, sketch, stand-up, and variety acts —highlighting both emerging voices and established acts.
At its core, Out of Bounds is about celebrating and showcasing the breadth of comedic talent within its community and beyond. With improv as a foundation, the festival highlights the creativity, collaboration, and immediacy of live performance while giving artists a platform to share their work with new audiences. Just as importantly, Out of Bounds is committed to uplifting Austin’s theaters, performers, and creative community—building connections and visibility that extend well beyond the festival itself and contribute to a thriving, year-round comedy ecosystem.
Beyond the stage, Out of Bounds offers a full slate of workshops, social events, and parties that bring the community together. These gatherings create space for performers to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships with artists from across the country. Whether in a classroom, at a mixer, or on the dance floor, the festival fosters meaningful opportunities to network, collaborate, and be part of a vibrant, national comedy community.

About the Hosts

The Out of Bounds Comedy Festival and Miniature Golf Tournament was founded in 2002 by Jeremy Sweetlamb as a way to get performers from Texas and beyond to come and enjoy the Austin comedy scene. In 2009, the festival became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and grew into a seven day festival at up to seven venues. Post-pandemic, the festival returned in 2025 as a pared down and potent showcase of talent.

Currently the festival staff is led by co-producers Asaf Ronen and Ellen Pizarek, with Shannon McCormick serving as Board Chair. 

Suggest an Edit