applications now open for
2026 lookout comedy competition
competition dates
friday, may 22 - sunday, may 24, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Lookout Comedy Competition, returning to the world-famous Comedy Catch in Chattanooga, TN for Memorial Day Weekend 2026!
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
WHAT TO SUBMIT:
1) Your best 5 minute video (should be 5 continues minutes; no "best of"/cuts or edits)
2) $15 submission fee
3) All info required in the application questionnaire
RULES/REGULATIONS/RAH-RAH-RAH
Applications open: 2/6/26
Applications close: 3/15 /26
Announcement of competitors: Early April TBA
24 competitors total
20 available spots from online submissions.
4 spots reserved for audience favorites at the Comedy Catch open mic WILDCARD QUALIFIER on Wednesday, May 20.
Competition judging/scoring:
Progression of rounds will be determined by a panel of nonpartial, industry judges and audience vote.
Weighting of scoring breakdown:
Judge panel evaluation - 70%
Audience vote - 30%
Competition Schedule Rundown:
Wednesday, May 20: Local Comics Wildcard Qualifier
1 show at the Comedy Catch - 7:00 PM
12 comics total; 5 minute sets
4 comics advance to preliminaries
Friday, May 22: Preliminaries
2 shows at the Comedy Catch - 7:00 and 9:45
12 comics per show; 5 minute sets
8 comics from each show advance to the next round
Saturday, May 23: Semifinals
2 shows at the Comedy Catch - 7:00 and 9:45
8 comics per show; 8 minute sets
3 comics from each show advance to the next round
Sunday, May 24: Finals
1 show at the Comedy Catch - 6:00 PM* (time may be adjusted, TBA)
6 comics; 12 minute sets
3 total winners - 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place
Prizes:
1st place - $1000
2nd place - $300
3rd place - $200
All cash prizes paid by The Comedy Catch!
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will automatically get a spot as a featured comic in the 2026 Lookout Comedy Festival (Oct. 14-17).
All comics who are admitted to 2026 Lookout Comedy Competition have application fees waived for 2026 Lookout Comedy Festival.
QUESTIONS?
Email lookoutcomedyfest@gmail.com and someone will be happy to help!
2026 festival info coming soon!
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