Laugh Out Loud: Summer Comedy in Salem

From nationally touring comics to local favorites, Salem’s comedy scene delivers laughs all summer long.

Hot Hot Head Stand Up Comedy Competition

Think you’re funny? So do these comedians. Hot Hot Heat Stand Up Comedy Competition brings comics from across the Northwest to Salem to battle for laughs, bragging rights, and a cash prize. Follow the action from the preliminary rounds through the semifinals and championship to see who can survive the pressure and come out on top. Preliminary: 8:30 p.m. Jul 18. Semifinal: 8:30 p.m. Aug 21. Championship: 8:30 p.m. Aug 22, at the Yard Food Park. $15 tickets available at the door.

Rodney Norman

Rodney Norman has built a following by delivering delightfully offbeat observations with a perfectly straight face. His blend of deadpan humor, gentle absurdity, and surprisingly insightful life advice makes for an evening that’s as thought-provoking as it is laugh-out-loud funny. Jul 3 at Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre. salemshg.com

Ha-Has with Tapas

Ha-Has with Tapas: A comedy show hosted by Tony Meyer, 7 p.m. July 21 at Pintxo’s in the Alley, 120 Commercial St NE, Suite 150. Free.

The Art Critique Comedy Show

What happens when comedians become art critics? The Art Critique Comedy Show, where a gallery of thrift-store paintings becomes the setup for an evening of improvised observations and questionable expertise before the art is auctioned to the highest bidder. Equal parts comedy show and absurd art appreciation, it’s unlike anything else on Salem’s summer calendar. 8 p.m. Jul 31 at Salem’s Historic Grand Ballroom. salemshg.com 

The Trouble with Angels

Known for scene-stealing roles on screen and stage, Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery join forces for The Trouble with Angels, an evening of music, comedy, and quick-witted banter. Blending cabaret, storytelling, and plenty of playful charm, the pair prove that a little trouble can be a very good thing. 7:30 p.m. Aug 28 at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com

Jon Lovitz

Comedian and actor Jon Lovitz brings decades of stories, observations, and offbeat humor to the Elsinore stage. From his years on Saturday Night Live and memorable roles in films including A League of Their Own, The Wedding Singer, and Rat Race, Jon remains one of comedy’s most recognizable voices. 7:30 p.m. Sep 20 at Elsinore Theatre. elsinoretheatre.com

This story is part of 100 Things to Do in Salem this Summer from Press Play Salem issue 28 (Summer 2026)

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Author: The Instigator