Gildas LaughFest

Gilda’s LaughFest is a non-profit organization based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 2011, the organization employs 5 people and generates an annual revenue of $2.5 million. Gilda’s LaughFest is known for producing the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, a 10-day event held annually in March. The festival features a diverse range of comedy performances, including stand-up, improv, showcases, and other humorous activities, attracting an average of 50,000 attendees each year. The festival's mission is to celebrate laughter for its positive impact on emotional health and well-being. All proceeds from LaughFest directly benefit Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, a free community center offering programs and activities to support emotional health. These programs include education, structured sharing times, networking opportunities, lectures, workshops, and social activities. For more information about Gilda’s LaughFest and its programming, visit laughfestgr.org.