Coming to Harrrogate - Top comedians Richard Ayoade, Maisie Adam, Harry Enfield and Alexei Sayle

The annual Harrogate Comedy Festival is back and it starts this week.

Sponsored by Harrogate Theatre’s Primary Partner Vet Dentist, the epic line-up of comedy gold will feature legendary household names and the freshest rising stars on the circuit.

Whether you’re a fan of razor-sharp wit, belly-laughing silliness or side-splitting satire, there will be something to keep you giggling all festival long, including kids shows.

Having launched on Wednesday, September 30, this hugely popular festival will run to to Sunday, November 1, with most shows held at the Harrogate Theatre or the Royal Hall.

Now in its 17th year, this year’s Harrogate Comedy Festival boasts another outstanding programme of stand-up, improv, storytelling and family entertainment with big names such as Richard Ayoade, Maisie Adam, Harry Enfield, Alexei Sayle, Miriam Margolyes, Jason Byrne, Reece Shearsmith and many more.

The line-up for the forthcoming week includes Paul and Suki: Paul Merton & Suki Webster's Improv Show, The 4 Johns: Frank Sidebottom Calling, Hyena Lounge Comedy Club - Comedy Festival Special, Seann Walsh: This is Torture, Ed Patrick: Numb and Number, Rachel Mars: Your Sexts are Sh*t, Olaf Falafel's Stupidest Super Stupid Show and Jason Byrne: 30 Years Byrning.

"We're delighted to once again bring such a varied programme to Harrogate, offering something for everyone, whether you're a lifelong comedy fan or simply looking for a great night out,” said Marcus Romer, Harrogate Comedy Festival programmer.

"Harrogate Comedy Festival has become one of the highlights of the year.”