Hasan Minhaj, Margaret Cho, and more to headline Belly Laughs Festival
The two-day summer feast of Asian American comedy and cuisine will be in July in L.A.
Hasan Minhaj in “The King’s Jester."
Clifton Prescod/Netflix
Words by Daniel Anderson
Try not to laugh with your mouth full. The Belly Laughs Festival is taking over L.A. LIVE on July 12 and 13. This two-day event celebrates Asian American comedy and cuisine with a powerhouse lineup of stand-ups and a night market curated by MAMA’s NIGHTMARKET.
Leading the comedy bill is Hasan Minhaj, joined by Kumail Nanjiani, Margaret Cho, Joel Kim Booster, Sherry Cola, Sabrina Wu, Ali Asif and Dylan Adler. Audiences can also catch sets from Jonnie Park (Dumbfoundead), Aparna Nancherla, Jenny Yang, James Tom, Jason Cheny, Irene Tu and more.
On both days, the laughs kick off at 1 p.m. at the CAPE/GoldHouse stage at The Novo and continue into the evening on the Peacock Theater stage, starting at 5 p.m.
On the food side, more than 20 vendors will dish out some of the best Asian cuisine, including Chef Tuệ Nguyễn’s celebrated Điđi, plus Holy Basil, Kolkata Chai Co, Mayura, Riviera Seafood Club, Yum Sະlut, and Tenkatori. The night market will be set up at Peacock Place, with doors opening at noon each day.
Tickets for the festival go on sale Friday, with general admission and VIP options available. VIP perks include dedicated viewing areas, exclusive vendors, VIP bars, air-conditioned restrooms, and express entry lanes.
Published on March 26, 2025
Words by Daniel Anderson
Daniel Anderson is a disabled Chinese American adoptee based in Seattle. His freelance writing specialties include K-pop, entertainment, and food. He believes that any restaurant can be a buffet, and the key to success is to take a nap each day. Follow his adventures on Instagram @danzstan.