Mercure Melbourne Doncaster - Luxury hotel - 40th MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL

From 25 March to 19 April, 2026

Melbourne bursts into laughter as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival returns for its landmark 40th edition – four decades since it launched in 1987. Expect a huge mix of entertainment: headlines and stand-up acts, intimate bar gigs, theatrical cabaret, street comedy, family-friendly shows, late-night club performances, and much more, with hundreds of shows across dozens of venues city-wide.

This year, the Festival goes big: a special “Big 4-Oh” one-night spectacular celebrating 40 years of comedy history: outdoor performances at Federation Square and the return of the Festival’s short-film competition – rebooted as “Funny Shorts” for 2026.

Whether you’re after belly-laughs with friends, a fun night out, or family-friendly entertainment, the 2026 Festival has something for everyone.

Visiting Melbourne for the festival? Make Mercure Melbourne Doncaster your home away from home. With modern, comfortable rooms and quick access to the city, we’re perfectly placed for you to enjoy gig after gig.

After an evening of laughter and late-night shows, return to a peaceful, welcoming hotel – recharge and get ready for more comedy the next night. With so many acts spread across Melbourne, it’s a smart idea to stay somewhere closer yet calm.

With demand high during the Festival period, we recommend booking early to secure your stay and make the most of Melbourne’s funniest month.

Book your stay