The second annual Rik Mayall Comedy Festival kicked off in Droitwich Spa on Friday, May 29, 2026, bringing more than 300 events to the late comedian's Worcestershire hometown.
The volunteer-led, non-profit community festival celebrates the alternative comedy pioneer across local pubs, cafes, streets, a canal boat, and the historic Norbury Theatre, where Mayall first performed as a youngster.
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Running through June 6, the festival features a pop-up museum curated by photographer Andy Hollingworth and performances from high-profile comedians, including Mayall's Young Ones collaborators Alexei Sayle and Nigel Planer.
Mayall's family reflected on last year's inaugural success, saying they were touched by the love displayed for Rik throughout the town.
"To see him in almost every shop window was at once familiar, funny, and magical," the family stated.
Organizers worked with local groups to create a space dedicated to comedy enthusiasts and admirers of Mayall's career.
The family noted that the festival captured creating a space where fans of laughter feel at home.
The family expressed anticipation for the festival's return to the town where Mayall spent his youth and developed his passion for acting.
"We cannot wait for the fun to arrive back home to Droitwich Spa again this year," they said.
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Festival Highlights
A formal Totally Bonkers Family Fun Launch Party will take place on Saturday, May 30, from 11 a.
m. to 9 p.
m. on the High Street and St. Andrews Square Shopping Centre.
The official opening will be overseen by the chairman of Wychavon District Council and the mayor of Droitwich Spa, featuring local musical ensembles, street performers, magicians, and a live performance by comedian Mitch Benn.
Funding from county councillors Dan Birch and Richard Morris supported the Young Ones-themed museum exhibition and youth development schemes, including comedy workshops and an interactive youth joke spot.
The award-winning comedy company Foghorn Unscripted will present an unscripted whodunit titled Murder, Mayhem and Mayall at the St. Andrew's Hotel on Sunday, May 31.
"Audiences should prepare themselves for suspicious characters, dreadful excuses and a body count we haven't technically agreed on yet," said Kit Murdock, Artistic Director of Foghorn Unscripted.
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The lineup also includes appearances by Harriet Kemsley, Richard Herring, Lindsey Santoro, Robin Ince, and Comic Strip founder Peter Richardson.
