50th Annual San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition Semi-Finals
COMEDY
50th Annual San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition
Semi-Finals
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 • 7:30 PM
“The catalyst for [San Francisco’s] comedy explosion”
50th Annual San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition
Semi-Finals
The San Francisco Comedy Competition is one of the most prestigious comedy events in North America, launching the careers of people like Patton Oswalt, Robin Williams and Ellen DeGeneres. It’s an outrageously funny evening, where you will see the comedy stars of tomorrow competing for their chance at fame and fortune. Hundreds of comedians audition each year to compete. Only 32 are chosen.
The competition is an annual, multi-week, judged, stand-up comedy contest held in comedy clubs, bars, restaurants, casinos, and theaters in San Francisco and around the Bay Area. Each comedian performs for a unique group of judges for every show they do and receive scores in seven categories.
For the 2026 competition, Montalvo is honored to host one night of the semifinal round. Top contestants from the preliminary weeks will each perform 8–12-minute sets that will have you rolling with laughter!
No other competition can claim to have discovered as many future comedy superstars as the annual San Francisco Comedy Competition! The list of award winners and finalists over the years includes Robin Williams, Dana Carvey, Ellen DeGeneres, Sinbad, Patton Oswalt, Will Durst, Dane Cook, Ralphie May, and many others.
Location
The Carriage House Theatre
15400 Montalvo Rd.
Saratoga, CA 95070
Box Office Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am – 4 pm
Call Us: 408-961-5858The Carriage House Theatre
Frequently asked Questions & Answers
Do you have parking ?
All parking is onsite at Montalvo and requires a parking permit. You can purchase a permit for $15 when you buy your ticket, or pay $15 in cash at the gate. Rideshare drop-offs are permitted—let the gate attendant know you are being dropped off and follow their directions.
No West Valley College parking or shuttles to Montalvo for these indoor performances.
Do you have member discounts?
Montalvo Arts Center membership enhances your Carriage House Theatre experience—beginning at the Steward Level ($250+) and increasing with higher levels—by offering early and priority access to tickets and waitlists, preferred seating at select performances, discounts on Carriage House concert tickets, and invitations to exclusive pre-concert and opening-night receptions.
Not a member, yet? Learn more about Montalvo membership. Click-here>>
What is the cancellation and refund policy for Carriage House concert tickets?
Carriage House ticket purchases are nonrefundable. No refunds or exchanges. If you cannot attend, you may transfer your ticket to someone else. As Montalvo Arts Center is a nonprofit organization, you can also turn your ticket into a tax-deductible gift if you cannot attend the show. Please reach out to the Box Office at boxoffice@montalvoarts.org or +1-408-961-5858 (Mo-Fr 10am – 4 pm).
Where is The Carriage House Theatre?
The Carriage House Theatre is located on the Montalvo grounds. located in Saratoga, California, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Directions and other information about visiting can be found here. Montalvo Arts Center, 15400 Montalvo Rd Saratoga, CA 95070.
Do you have ADA seating?
Yes. ADA seating is available in the Carriage House Theatre. If you purchase Wheelchair + Companion seating, our Box Office will contact you in advance to confirm details and coordinate accommodations, including parking.
Do you have ADA parking?
Yes, we have ADA parking in Lot 3 – first come, first served with current placard. If you have questions, please contact our Box Office boxoffice@montalvoarts.org.
How much are the service fees?
Please note that a service fee of $8.00 is added to each Carriage House ticket.
Can I visit Montalvo before the Carriage House show?
Yes. You are welcome to arrive early and explore Montalvo’s grounds free of charge before your Carriage House show. Please allow extra time for parking and the walk to the theatre, and note that access may be limited in certain areas due to private events or venue operations.
About Montalvo Arts Center
Discover a cultural oasis in Silicon Valley’s foothills. Montalvo Arts Center spans over 100 acres of woodland trails and gardens in Saratoga, located less than 20 minutes from Los Gatos, West San Jose, Monte Sereno, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Altos, Mountain View, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale. We are a member-supported nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the lives of all people through the arts.
We serve our community year-round through diverse programming, including summer camps, educational field trips, concerts in the Carriage House Performing Arts Series, rotating exhibitions, the prestigious Lucas Artists Residency Program, and free community festivals.
Beyond our programs, everyone is welcome to enjoy a picnic on the Great Lawn, stroll through beautiful gardens, and experience our permanent outdoor sculpture collection—all free of charge. With the support of our community, we’re making the arts accessible to all in this remarkable setting.
