Providence Hosting 4-Day Comedy Festival With Kevin Hart, Aziz Ansari, Leslie Jones

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Veterans Memorial Auditorium (VETS) in Providence will host a new four-day comedy festival in Providence that will feature famous comedians like Kevin Hart, Michael Blaustein, Leslie Jones, Aziz Ansari, Hannah Berner, and Chris Distefano.

Lil Rhody Laugh Riot will take over Rhode Island's capital from March 27 through March 30, 2025.

Anchored at the historic the VETS and spilling over into satellite venues around the city including, the Providence Performing Arts Center and RI Comedy Connection, this festival will feature four days packed of "expertly crafted chaos, witty one-liners, and just enough self-deprecating humor to make us all feel seen," organizers said. The first wave of headliners are:

• Kevin Hart: 7:30 p.m. March 27 — Providence Performing Arts Center
• Michael Blaustein: 7 p.m March 28 — The VETS
• Leslie Jones: 4 p.m. March 29 — The VETS
• Aziz Ansari: 7 p.m. March 29 — Providence Performing Arts Center
• Hannah Berner: 7 p.m. March 30 — The VETS
• Chris Distefano: 9:45 p.m. March 30 — The VETS.

The full lineup, featuring a mix of comedy icons and rising stars also includes Josh Johnson, Melissa Villasenor, Tone Bell, Sophie Buddle, Alec Flynn and Andy Woodhull.

"This event isn't just about comedy, it's about creating a space where people from all walks of life can come together and share in the joy of laughter," VETS General Manager Daniel Schwartz said. "Our lineup transcends generations, blending comedy icons like Kevin Hart with hilarious rising stars like Chris Distefano to ensure there’s something for everyone. Rhode Island has always been known for its charm and creativity, and this festival will showcase both in the best way possible."

It’s not just about the laughs, though. In conjunction with the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot, the inaugural Providence Culinary Collective will take place the same weekend in various locations across the city. Presented by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau (PWCVB), this first-of-its-kind food and wine festival will honor Providence’s culinary legacy.

"Providence has long been a city that thrives on creativity, culture and connection, and the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot is the perfect addition to our vibrant lineup of attractions," Mayor Brett Smiley said. "This comedy festival, paired with the debut of the Providence Culinary Collective, will showcase the best of what our city has to offer — world-class entertainment, exceptional cuisine and an energy that draws people together. We’re excited to welcome visitors and locals alike to experience why Providence is quickly gaining national recognition as a top destination for people to live, work and visit."

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