Machynlleth Comedy Festival 2026

Machynlleth Comedy Festival — known as 'Mach Fest' — is a tiny, beloved comedy festival in a tiny Welsh market town in mid Wales. Over one weekend in May, some of the best comedians in the UK descend on Machynlleth (population 2,000) to perform in venues including the community centre, pubs, a converted chapel, and a yurt. The atmosphere is unlike any other comedy festival — performers and audience mingle in the pubs, the whole town gets involved, and the intimate venues create a warmth that larger festivals can't match. The lineup punches well above its weight — previous performers include Stewart Lee, Josie Long, Robin Ince, and dozens of Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees. Tickets sell out fast — the venues are small and the festival has a devoted following. Book accommodation early too, as options in Machynlleth are limited (some people stay in Aberystwyth, 30 minutes away). The surrounding landscape is beautiful — mountains and the Dyfi Valley. A properly special weekend.