One of the UK’s most celebrated stand-up comedians, Jason Manford, has been announced as the latest star to join this year’s Southport Comedy Festival in association with Halliwell Jones Kia Southport.
Comedy fans will have two chances to see the entertainer live as he performs both a matinee and an evening show on Sunday, 4 October 2026.
Fresh from a sell-out national tour, Jason returns to the festival with the trademark energy, quick wit, and brilliant storytelling that has made him a household name.
While he is a familiar face on British television through hit shows like Starstruck, The Masked Singer, and Live at the Apollo, it is on the live stage where he truly shines.
Two Opportunities to Catch a Comedy Legend
Tickets for both performances go on sale at 10am this Friday, 20 March 2026. Given his status as one of the country’s best-loved entertainers, organisers are expecting strong demand for the limited seats.
The 15th annual Southport Comedy Festival runs from 2 to 18 October 2026 and returns for the sixth consecutive year to its luxury, fully seated and heated Elite Events marquee within the beautiful surroundings of Victoria Park.
Audiences can expect a fantastic afternoon or evening of laugh-out-loud stand-up as Jason brings his acclaimed live comedy back to Southport.
Jason Manford is the eighth show to be revealed for the 2026 programme, joining an already impressive roster of talent.
The lineup currently includes festival favourite Jason Byrne, German comedy ambassador Henning Wehn, and king of the one-liners Gary Delaney.
A Stellar Lineup for the 15th Anniversary
Other confirmed acts include the legendary improv duo Paul Merton and Suki Webster, Taskmaster star Mike Wozniak, multi award-winning comedian Scott Bennett, and rising TV star Laura Smyth.
Many more shows are still to be announced in the coming months as the festival prepares for its milestone anniversary.
For the matinee performance on Sunday, 4 October, doors will open at 2pm for a 3pm show. The evening performance will see doors open at 6pm for a 7pm show.
Tickets for both sessions are priced at £25 with an age guidance of 14 plus.
Tickets can be purchased via the Southport Comedy Festival website starting Friday morning.
With a heated marquee and a picturesque setting at the home of the world-famous Southport Flower Show, the festival continues to be a highlight of the regional cultural calendar.
