Image: Festival producer Alex Svarez is also one of the comedians performing onstage in downtown Abbotsford from August 1 to 3. / Laffs Fest / Provided

By Alyssa Conti

COMEDY FEST

Indie comedy festival to land in downtown Abbotsford August long weekend

Jul 26, 2025 | 8:38 AM

ABBOTSFORD — A new three-day affair in downtown Abbotsford is looking to have folks rolling on the floor laughing next week.

From August 1 to 3, Laffs Fest 2025 will headline nationally recognized comedians like Leland Klassen, Jessica Pigeau, and Alex Svarez, who also produces the festival. They’ll be joined by a mix of touring and local voices across seven venues to kick off one of Canada’s largest indie comedy festivals.

But it won’t be like any other comedy event. As Svarez calls it, Laffs Fest will be “A summer camp for losers, weirdos, artists, creatives, and everyone in between.”

“Last Laffs as a community has always had that ‘backyard party’ atmosphere where everyone is welcome and fans feel a connection to the comedians,” he added. “We talk to people after shows, smoke, drink, joke around with them. It’s not us vs. them—we’re having fun together.”

Laffs Fest 2025 / Provided

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Guests can expect themed shows, roast battles, music and more as they enjoy food and drinks along downtown Abby. It’s an off-kilter blend of jesters and performers stemming from punk and hardcore music scenes.

“We’re inspired by the stories of the OG Woodstock. Despite not having time, money, or anything the big corporate festivals have—we just put the bat signal out to the comedy world and decided to see what happens.”

Tickets and details are available through the festival website. Venues include Open Space, Amici Italian and Local Public House – all within walking distance of each other.