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Hannibal Buress
Photograph: Courtesy Mindy Tucker

The 15 best shows to see at the New York Comedy Festival

Spend the New York Comedy Festival laughing at these stand-up sets, talk shows and sketches from the best comedians

Written by
Tolly Wright
&
Time Out contributors
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Every autumn, the changing of the leaves also brings the best fall festivals in NYC. The New York Comedy Festival, produced by Carolines on Broadway in association with Comedy Network, is one of them (not to mention one of the best NYC events in November). Whether you want to see the stars from cutting-edge television programs, touring powerhouses or even hometown heroes who happen to be some of the 50 funniest New Yorkers, there’s a show for you—just another something to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to New York Comedy Festival

Best shows at New York Comedy Festival

Bill Maher
  • Comedy

Saying that this comic and political commentator is smug and self-satisfied is akin to noting that the sun sets in the West; you've also got to admit that he's created a massive platform for his liberal and atheist beliefs through his keen dissections of American society. Given the recent antics of several presidential candidates (looking at you, Trump) Maher should have plenty of ripe fruit for picking.

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Trevor Noah
  • Comedy
  • Stand-up

The South African comedian has left audiences in stitches with jokes about politics, race and class. If earlier shows are any indication of what's in store for his takeover of The Daily Show, expect Noah to push the envelope just far enough.

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Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King
  • Comedy

The challenges of growing up as a first-generation American, like culture clashes with parents and navigating identity issues, are recounted with enthusiasm and good-natured ribbing by delightful stand-up comedian and Daily Show correspondent Minhaj in his one-man show.

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Dane Cook
  • Comedy

Following the release of his 2013 directorial debut, Troublemaker, on Showtime, we’re excited to see what the hypermasculine, multiplatinum album–selling comic has up his sleeve for the New York Comedy Festival. We imagine his on-fire comedic stand up is as strong as ever.

Tracy Morgan
  • Comedy
  • Stand-up

When the hilarious and unpredictable 30 Rock alum (and author of the memoir I Am the New Black) takes the stage, he rants about sex, drugs and his love of porn, among other things.

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