When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Kickstand Comedy
Why Kickstand Comedy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kickstand Comedy is a vibrant, nonprofit comedy theater located in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive comedy community. Established as Portland's home for local comedy, Kickstand offers a unique space where performers and audiences come together for improv, stand-up, and sketch comedy shows. It emphasizes quality, community, and unique voices, hosting dynamic performances that break down barriers and foster equity in comedy. Beyond live shows, Kickstand is renowned for its comedy training center—the Pacific Northwest's #1—offering classes in improv, stand-up, sketch, and physical comedy. This environment encourages experimentation, collaboration, and creative growth for performers at all levels. The theater boasts an inviting, scrappy atmosphere appreciated for its hospitality and is recognized nationally for its improv offerings. Its mission revolves around transforming and enriching lives through comedy by promoting a hate-free, all-inclusive environment and providing educational outreach and performance opportunities. Kickstand's vision is to establish a thriving, equitable, and representative comedy scene that fairly compensates artists and secures its status as an iconic institution in the region. It successfully raised over $34,000 through a community Kickstarter campaign to develop its venue, emphasizing strong community support. For anyone looking to meet up with friends and enjoy laugh-filled evenings packed with local talent and unique comedic voices, Kickstand Comedy is an exceptional choice.
Here's what people think of Kickstand Comedy
As of recent, Kickstand Comedy holds a 4.8-star rating based on 66 reviews.
Customer reviews highlight Kickstand Comedy's impactful role in Portland’s comedy scene with an excellent 4.8 rating from 66 reviewers. Many positive assessments praise the theater’s supportive, inclusive atmosphere and the quality of its performances and classes. Users frequently commend the knowledgeable and caring instructors, the welcoming environment, and the innovative programming that showcases diverse local talent. The community-driven, experimental nature of the shows and the organization's mission to foster equity receive special recognition. Additionally, the venue’s unique charm and scrappy hospitality elevate the experience, making it a standout local comedy hub. On the negative side, some reviews note issues such as venue accessibility challenges or occasional limitations in seating comfort, common in smaller theater settings. Occasionally, patrons express a desire for more frequent or varied showtimes to accommodate diverse schedules. Despite these minor critiques, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores Kickstand Comedy’s success in creating a beloved and essential comedy institution in Portland. In conclusion, reviews collectively affirm Kickstand Comedy as a must-visit for comedy lovers who appreciate vibrant community spaces, diverse voices, and high-quality comedic entertainment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wallis Smith-Owens
A small but mighty comedy club. It’s a great intimate space. Since it’s a nonprofit all of your purchases go directly back to Kickstand including tips. The prices on food and bev are way less than any other comedy club in town and they don’t require any minimums which I appreciate! I will definitely be back in the future.
Eren Kalfaoglu
The improv was excellent! Had a great time. Show was short and sweet. Good for a fun outing / date. Highly recommend the hot chocolate across the street as well. Edit 7mo later: been taking improv classes for ~4mo, highly recommended. Definitely not a cult 👌
Courtney Campbell
Stand up? Check. Improv? Check. Sketch? Check. Weird? Check! This comedy theater has all of the hahas and hehes you could ever want in a Portland evening! If you haven't been here before you HAVE to stop in and see a show (or two)!
Rose City Rec Room
BIPOC only classes exist because many non-white people are taught to cater to white emotions, and to make themselves small around white people. It’s the same reason there are women-only gyms; women and non-white people are still oppressed in “normal” spaces in America. If this is confusing to you, it’s because you don’t listen to or respect non-white people. Glad that this space exists 🙏🏻
Rachael Buckelew
Portland has a lot of great comedy venues, but Kickstand has that little something that makes it my favorite in town. The owners are super nice and clearly put a lot of work in to cultivate a great space. The shows are top notch, the community is inclusive, and the talent is unmatched. Could not recommend it more. Also, Away Days Brewing right next door is a great spot to hang before shows!
How to reach Kickstand Comedy
None
Website: None
Why rally at Kickstand Comedy with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a night out calls for a venue that guarantees laughter, connection, and a unique shared experience — Kickstand Comedy in Portland, Oregon checks all those boxes. As a nonprofit comedy hub dedicated to showcasing local talent, it's a place where you and your group can immerse yourselves in fresh, hilarious performances that you won't find anywhere else. The intimate, cozy theater space creates a warm setting where everyone feels part of the show, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective joy. What makes Kickstand truly special is its all-inclusive atmosphere, welcoming diverse voices and comedic styles, ensuring that every visit is something new and exciting. Its affordable ticket prices further sweeten the deal, letting groups enjoy a top-tier comedy night without worrying about breaking the bank. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, catch up over laughs, or simply unwind together after a busy day, Kickstand Comedy offers an unmatched environment to rally with friends and create lasting memories steeped in humor and good vibes.
What activities and performances can you enjoy at Kickstand Comedy?
Kickstand Comedy is bursting with varied comedic entertainment designed to appeal to every sense of humor within your group. At its core, the venue offers live shows featuring stand-up, improv, sketch, and more eclectic comedic acts, all performed by Portland’s vibrant local talent. These shows range from carefully curated weekly events to special taping sessions, ensuring that each visit is a fresh encounter with Portland's comedy scene. If your group enjoys interactive fun, improv performances invite spontaneous audience participation, adding an exciting unpredictability and memorable moments you can talk about for days. Beyond performances, Kickstand hosts affordable classes in comedy arts, where your friends can get hands-on experience in stand-up and improv techniques, perfect for groups eager to try something new together and bond over learning comedy firsthand. The venue’s unique, handmade aesthetic adds to the immersive experience, combining a scrappy, indie vibe with a welcoming ambiance that makes everyone feel at home and part of the comedic community.
Why is Kickstand Comedy perfect for a group meetup?
Kickstand Comedy's intimate setting fosters a strong sense of connection, making it ideal for groups looking to share an engaging night out. Unlike large theaters where you can feel disconnected from the performers and each other, Kickstand’s cozy space brings everyone close enough to literally be a part of the experience. This proximity amplifies the shared joy and laughter, enhancing group dynamics and making for a more interactive and memorable evening. The venue’s nonprofit status means it focuses on community and inclusivity rather than commercial profit, contributing to a relaxed, friendly environment where groups feel welcome regardless of background or comedic taste. Additionally, its location on SE Hawthorne Boulevard puts it near a variety of excellent dining and drinks options — perfect for pre-show meetups or post-show discussions, extending the night into a full social event. Whether you’re catching a Friday night show or participating in a class, Kickstand Comedy creates the perfect blend of entertainment and social connection that makes group meetups truly special.
What makes Kickstand Comedy stand out among other comedy venues in Portland?
Kickstand Comedy’s distinctive charm lies in its commitment to showcasing the city’s weirdest, most endearing comedic voices, fostering a space where creative risk-taking is encouraged and celebrated. Unlike mainstream comedy clubs that often feature well-known, polished acts, Kickstand prides itself on an all-inclusive, grassroots approach that highlights diverse, emerging performers and unusual comedic styles. This focus creates a dynamic environment where you never quite know what to expect, from offbeat stand-up to experimental sketch or improv, keeping the experience fresh and exciting for returning groups. Moreover, the venue’s "strange, scrappy hospitality" contributes to an atmosphere rich in character and authenticity, which audiences and performers alike cherish. The nonprofit model further reinforces its role as a community-oriented space that breaks down barriers to comedy, making it accessible and affordable, whilst nurturing new talent — a commitment rare in entertainment venues. This dedication to local culture and inclusivity positions Kickstand as not merely a comedy club but a vital and beloved part of Portland’s artistic ecosystem.
How does the atmosphere and setting enhance the meetup experience?
The handmade look and intimate design of Kickstand Comedy create a distinct ambience that differentiates it from conventional comedy venues. The venue feels like stepping into a creative underground hub — friendly, personal, and a bit quirky, which perfectly complements the innovative comedic acts it hosts. This atmosphere encourages relaxation and laughter, removing any formality and allowing attendees to be their authentic selves and engage openly with the performances and each other. The proximity of seats and smaller scale mean your group can share glances, whispers, and reactions without interrupting the show, making the entire experience feel like a private celebration of humor. This environment also lends itself to fostering new friendships, as the inclusive community vibe encourages mingling with other comedy lovers. Coupled with nearby food carts and cozy cafes along the Hawthorne Boulevard corridor, Kickstand provides a holistic outing setting where groups can extend their meetup beyond the stage, savoring food and conversation before or after the shows.
Why choose Kickstand Comedy for special occasions or casual outings?
Whether you’re planning a birthday, a farewell, or simply a casual night out with friends or family, Kickstand Comedy offers a unique venue that makes any occasion memorable. Its inclusive, laid-back environment removes the pressure often associated with other entertainment venues, allowing guests to focus entirely on enjoying the company and the comedy. The rotating lineup of performances ensures there’s always something new and tailor-made for different tastes and moods, from clever stand-up to interactive improv shows. The affordability thanks to its nonprofit foundation means you can treat a larger group without financial strain, making it accessible for a broader range of people. Plus, its reputation as one of Portland’s top improv theaters, recognized nationally, elevates your outing beyond standard entertainment to an experience celebrated by comedy aficionados. Choosing Kickstand implies embracing laughter, novelty, and community — the perfect ingredients for any event or spontaneous get-together.
How accessible and welcoming is Kickstand Comedy for diverse groups?
Kickstand Comedy’s mission centers on inclusivity, breaking down barriers and creating a welcoming space for all kinds of audiences and performers. Its nonprofit status allows it to focus community efforts on affordability and diverse representation rather than commercial constraints. This means that people of various backgrounds, identities, and comedic preferences are embraced, creating a supportive environment where everyone can feel comfortable and valued. The shows feature a broad spectrum of voices and styles, offering something for every type of humor lover, from mainstream laughs to avant-garde comedy. The staff and instructors are known for being caring and supportive, fostering a climate of kindness and encouragement that extends beyond just the performances to classes and workshops. For groups seeking a safe, friendly, and open comedic experience, Kickstand Comedy stands out as an exemplary venue committed to accessibility and diversity.
What additional experiences can groups look forward to at Kickstand Comedy?
Beyond the shows themselves, Kickstand Comedy offers an array of enriching experiences that can enhance your meetup. Their comedy classes are a standout feature, available for all skill levels and perfect for groups wanting to dive into the art of humor together. Taking a class not only provides laughs but also builds camaraderie and shared achievements through activities like improv games and stand-up exercises. The vibe of learning in a supportive, low-pressure environment encourages participation and discovery of hidden talents among friends or family. Additionally, occasional special events and tapings add variety and exclusivity, giving groups early access to unique performances or insights into the comedy-making process. The combination of entertainment, education, and community interaction makes Kickstand a dynamic destination where every visit can offer something new and rewarding to groups seeking meaningful ways to enjoy each other’s company.
By choosing Kickstand Comedy as your group’s meetup spot, you’re not just attending a show — you’re joining a vibrant, inclusive community that celebrates laughter, creativity, and connection in a uniquely Portland way.