Chicago is renowned for its vibrant and diverse live performance scene, especially its rich history in comedy and improv. The city is home to legendary theaters like The Second City and iO, and its open mic nights offer vital stages for comedians, musicians, poets, and storytellers to hone their craft.

Throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods, from Wicker Park to Logan Square and beyond, you can find open mics that range from casual coffeehouse sessions to lively club showcases. The city’s passionate audiences and supportive arts community make it a hotspot for emerging talent as well as established performers testing new material.

Whether you’re a stand-up comic, spoken word artist, or musician, this regularly updated list provides essential details about sign-ups, costs, times, and venues to help you find the perfect open mic in Chicago.

Chicago

Illinois

United States of America

Any experience level welcome at our standup comedy open mic! Comedians each have 4 MINUTES to perform any form of standup comedy or storytelling they're working on. We frequently have seasoned pros and first timers all in one room - it's super fun and supportive!

Here's the breaks: Doors open at 5:30pm SHARP (NO EARLIER! DO NOT BOTHER TRYING! WE WILL IGNORE YOU!) and the mic will begin at 6pm. There are sign ups in person with a one-item purchase minimum required.

A limited amount of signups appear each week on Facebook, where you can pre-sign up. Link here: https://www.facebook.com/LincolnLodgeTheater/

Any questions can be directed to thelincolnlodge@gmail.com

Chicago Open Mics