NYLaughs: We Bring the Funny. For Free.

NYLaughs is a 501(c)3 performing arts nonprofit that does what no one thought was possible: celebrates stand-up comedy as a highbrow cultural asset while keeping it free and accessible. Through live performances in parks, streets, and other public spaces, we make New Yorkers laugh, connect, and—dare we say—care about each other.

Our secret sauce? We spotlight diverse voices that reflect NYC’s vibrant cultural fabric, proving that stand-up is more than punchlines; it’s a shared experience that promotes mental wellness and resilience. Our mission is simple: make NYC the global HQ for comedy while spreading joy and inclusivity, one joke at a time.

COOL! HOW DO YOU MAKE PEOPLE LAUGH?

We tell jokes.

COULD YOU BE MORE SPECIFIC?

We invite very funny humans—seasoned pros and up-and-comers alike—to hold a microphone and make people laugh. Our lineups include comics who’ve headlined clubs, written for TV, or gone viral online. Sometimes we even throw in fresh talent because everyone deserves a shot at the mic.

In summers, we bring the laughs outdoors with our Laughter in the Park series. We’ve also partnered with NYC’s heavy hitters like the NYPL, Brooklyn Museum, Lincoln Center, NYC City Council and Pier 57. We’d love to make you laugh year-round, but… this is the budget we’re working with. (Feel free to help change that.)

WHAT IS LAUGHTER IN THE PARK?

It’s our flagship event: a free summer comedy series where strangers become friends over shared chuckles. We named it Laughter in the Park because, well, it’s in parks. We’re creative like that. If it were on street corners, it’d be called Laughter on Corners. (Our founder started performing in subways, but let’s face it: picnics in the subway suck.)

Since 2007, we’ve produced over 100 free shows in 18 parks and greenspaces across NYC. And yes, you read that right—free.

FREE? HOW?

Comedy isn’t cheap—permits, equipment, marketing, and comedians aren’t exactly free. But thanks to generous donors, grants, and people who realize NYC could use some joy between all the parking tickets and rising rents, we make it happen.

As a 501(c)3, donations to us are tax-deductible. So give us money, and we won’t laugh…we’ll cry, hug you, and maybe even propose (if you’re single).

WHY STAND-UP COMEDY?

Because the world is a hot mess, and we all need a good laugh. Stand-up comedy isn’t just entertainment; it’s therapy, connection, and an art form that deserves its place in cultural institutions. Plus, laughing is scientifically proven to be good for your health—and it’s way cheaper than a gym membership.

BUT WHY YOU?

We’re not just any comedy group—we’re a movement. NYLaughs creates a space where people who avoid comedy clubs (for reasons like cover charges, drink minimums, or, you know, life) can experience live stand-up. Our audiences include everyone from families to seniors, recovery groups, and even comics performing with their kids strapped to their chests.

We’re here to change perceptions about comedy, foster inclusivity, and make laughter a part of NYC’s cultural DNA. We dream of becoming the Public Theater of stand-up comedy, building a community where joy is free, diverse voices shine, and New Yorkers leave every show smiling.

WHY DO YOU DO THIS?

Because unexpected laughter in public spaces is magic. For a moment, we forget our problems, our differences, and just laugh. (No, we don’t sing Kumbaya after shows, but wouldn’t that be something?)

Our audiences are as diverse as NYC itself—doctors, drifters, kids, seniors, singles, families, every race, gender, and orientation—all laughing together. And if strangers hugging us after shows is the price we pay for bringing joy, we’ll take it.

JOIN US

So, what are you waiting for? Follow us, donate, or come laugh with us. Who knows? You might just find joy, connection, or at least a decent picnic spot.

Organization Overview

Sometimes it’s tricky to explain who we are because, well, we’re one-of-a-kind. NYLaughs is a legit 501(c)3 arts organization with a bold mission: we’re expanding live performance comedy by bringing it straight to the people. Why? Because a laughing New Yorker is a happier New Yorker. Everyone deserves to laugh, and everyone deserves access to the art of comedy—no drink minimums or bouncers required.

Our audience is as diverse as the city we serve. We welcome people who can’t (or won’t) go to comedy clubs—whether they’re in recovery, hate late nights, can’t stomach steep cover charges, or just prefer a park bench to a sticky barstool. Seniors, families, kids, and even comics’ own children have shown up. One comedian performed with his baby strapped to his chest! (Baby got laughs, too.) But running a nonprofit dedicated to laughter is no joke—just ask the IRS. They won’t even crack a smile.

Our ultimate goal? To change how people see stand-up comedy. It’s not just a good time; it’s an art form that connects us all. We want to foster these connections and highlight comedy’s cultural importance. NYLaughs is growing into a hub for performers and organizations passionate about comedy in public spaces. By hosting events and series that blend corporate support with grassroots efforts, we’re carving out a space for laughter to thrive.

Because let’s face it: unexpected laughter is powerful. When New Yorkers laugh together, we forget our differences, our deadlines, and our rent (for a moment). Sure, we haven’t gotten anyone to sing Kumbaya yet, but stranger things have happened.

At our shows, you’ll see every kind of New Yorker: artists and accountants, drifters and doctors, parents and party animals, singles and couples, all laughing together. And honestly? We’ll take every thank-you hug from strangers—especially the cute, single ones.

Because laughter can change the world. We’re just here to prove it.