Hamburger Comedy Pokal

Competition Comedy at the Highest Level

While other comedy formats focus on shows or late-night entertainment, the Hamburger Comedy Pokal takes the more challenging route: competition, with points, a jury, and audience votes. For over 20 years, this format has been a must-attend event for the German-speaking comedy scene — and a springboard for careers in TV, streaming, and on the big stage.

Three Venues, A Journey Across Hamburg

The preliminary rounds are spread across two of Hamburg's most vibrant cultural centres:

• Goldbekhaus in Winterhude (Hamburg-Nord district)
• LOLA Bergedorf, a cultural centre in the Bergedorf district

The finale takes place on the Reeperbahn — at Schmidts TIVOLI, one of Northern Germany's most famous theatres.

Comedians from the German-Speaking World

Around 20 stand-up and comedy artists compete against each other. They come from Berlin, Vienna, Cologne, Munich, and Hamburg; some are established acts, others are newcomers. The jury evaluates punchlines, stage presence, and originality — the audience award is separate.

What's Up for Grabs

• 1st Prize: Trophy and cash prize
• Audience Award
• Total prize money: €6,000
• Bookings, festival appearances, and media presence

In the Hamburg-Mitte District

The finale on the Reeperbahn fits into Hamburg's comedy ecosystem, shaped by Quatsch Comedy Club, Mehr! Theater, and Schmidts Tivoli. For years, the Hamburger Comedy Pokal has been the most important competition in the German scene — and talents who win here often make the leap to TV and streaming.