Over 50 comedians from across Canada and the United States are descending on Calgary for 10 nights of stand-up, competing for a share of $5,000 in cash and prizes at the 26th Annual FunnyFest Comedy Competition. Eight comedians take the stage each night across five venues, running April 9 to 18.

Now in its 26th year, FunnyFest is volunteer-produced and has built a loyal following in Calgary as a launching pad for emerging comedians. Past competitor Derek Donald says the competition helped him gauge his development as a performer — and he's back for another shot this year.

"There is so much laughter at each show every night with 8 standup comedians performing that FunnyFest Comedy Society should get an award for combating inflation, as each joke costs only a nickel a laugh," says artistic director Stu Hughes.

Students, seniors, veterans, and essential workers get a discounted rate. Full lineup and tickets at funnyfest.ca