The world’s most beautifully chaotic comedy festival is back, and this time, it’s taking over New Orleans. Skankfest 2025 is set for November 14-16 at the legendary Mardi Gras World, and the theme is a perfect match for the city: “Voodoo, Mardi Gras, & Vampires.”
If you’re a first-timer, prepare yourself. This isn’t your standard comedy festival; it’s an immersive three-day party where the fans and the comedians are all part of the same wild experience.
What to Expect from the “Voodoo, Mardi Gras & Vampires” Theme
This year’s theme is a love letter to New Orleans. Here’s how we see it breaking down:
- Voodoo: Expect the unexpected. This points to the dark, esoteric, and “insider” humor that Skankfest is famous for. Think less about punchlines and more about the raw, unfiltered energy that feels like a secret ritual.
- Mardi Gras: This is the party element. Expect pure chaos, vibrant energy, and a “no rules” atmosphere. Mardi Gras is about letting loose, and that’s the core ethos of Skankfest.
- Vampires: This hints at the late-night, “after-dark” nature of the festival. Skankfest runs all day, but the legendary sets happen well after midnight. It’s for the comedy night-dwellers.
The Venue: Mardi Gras World
Holding the festival at Mardi Gras World is a genius move. This massive venue is where the iconic parade floats are built and stored. It provides a surreal, colorful, and slightly creepy backdrop that perfectly matches the theme. It’s an interactive environment that will feel less like a sterile convention center and more like a bizarre funhouse.
The Vibe
Skankfest is known for its legendary live podcast recordings, surprise “secret” sets from massive headliners, and the sheer accessibility of the comics, who often hang out with the fans. It’s a festival for true comedy nerds who love the craft and the personalities behind it.
Whether you’re there for the stand-up, the podcasts, or just the pure, unfiltered mayhem, Skankfest New Orleans is shaping up to be the most memorable one yet.
