Comedy In The Vines Returns to CherryHill Orchards
Australia's premier festival of comedy, wine and wildly good times is back, and in 2026 it's bigger than ever! Comedy in the Vines returns to CherryHill Orchards in the heart of Victoria's stunning Yarra Valley from 22nd-25th October, delivering four huge days of world class comedy, premium wine experiences, live music, and unforgettable festival moments.
Tickets are now on sale at comedyinthevines.com.
Created by the masterminds at Grapes of Mirth, and supported by the Victorian Government's Regional Events Fund and local partner, Tourism East, Comedy in the Vines has become an unmissable event on the national festival calendar, bringing together a raft of comedy stars, award-winning winemakers and unforgettable experiences in one spectacular destination.
Topping the bill in 2026 is an Australian exclusive appearance from UK comedy sensation George Lewis. Dubbed "the funniest dad on Instagram", Lewis has become a global phenomenon thanks to his brilliantly relatable observations on family life, toddlers, parkrun enthusiasts and everyday absurdities. With more than 500 million views online and fresh from a massive sellout UK and Ireland tour, George Lewis has become one of the biggest comedy stars in the world, and he'll be making his Australian debut exclusively at Comedy in the Vines.
George Lewis is joined by more than 25 of Australia's most loved comedians, including the legendary Lano & Woodley, and a powerhouse lineup featuring Mel Buttle, Sammy J, Geraldine Hickey, Lloyd Langford, Lizzy Hoo, Dave Hughes, Claire Hooper, Tom Ballard, Chopper, Gillian Cosgriff, Dave Thornton, Sashi Perera, Ben Knight, Frankie McNair, Harry Jun, Nikki Britton, Dan Rath, Urvi Majumdar, Alex Ward, Kate Dolan, and many more.
Returning festival favourite Merrick Watts will once again lead the festivities as founder, host and 'Head Clown', bringing together comedians, winemakers and festivalgoers for what has become one of Australia's most unique events.
The much-loved Meet Your Maker Bar returns this year, featuring more wineries, more wines and more opportunities to meet the people behind some of the Yarra Valley's finest drops. Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers can enjoy exclusive tastings, masterclasses and cellar door experiences hosted by more than 20 of the region's best winemakers.
Wine lovers can sharpen their skills at Learn to Taste Wine Like a Pro with Master of Wine Meg Brodtmann, while those seeking a less conventional wellness experience can join Nikki Britton for the festival's gloriously ridiculous Wine Aerobics session. The iconic 5km Wine Run also returns on Sunday morning, inviting participants to run, jog or stagger their way through the cherry orchards with wine tastings at every kilometre.
Merrick's, In Vino Veritas (In Wine Lies Truth) series continues with a sit-down chat with comedy icon Santo Cilauro. An exclusive live conversation over a glass of wine, sharing stories, and insights from over 30 years at the forefront of Australian comedy.
Adding to the festivities, award-winning performer Gillian Cosgriff brings her acclaimed cabaret gameshow There's Nothing Like a Game to the festival, while Dr Trevor Jones returns to keep audiences singing and dancing between comedy sets. Festival favourite Tina Del Twist will once again pop up throughout the weekend, alongside Australia's favourite octogenarian Ethel Chop, and DJ Pedro Moshman will ensure the energy never drops between performances. Then, when the comedy wraps up each night, the party begins.
Saturday night will see comedians go head-to-head in the inaugural Comedy DJ Battles, with audiences deciding which comic deserves to be crowned the festival's ultimate DJ champion.
Grapes of Mirth Head Clown Merrick Watts will be as busy as ever at the event:
"Comedy in the Vines is the highlight of my year, where I get to bring together a bunch of my best mates in comedy and wine. This year I'll be running a masterclass with one of the world's best winemakers Sarah Crowe, teaching people how to taste wine with a certified Master of Wine, Meg Brodtmann, running the traditional Sunday morning heart starter 5k run with wine tastings along the way. Then onto the main stage, sitting down for a chat with Australian comedy royalty Santo Cilauro. Honestly, I can't wait," he said.
Comedy in the Vines Festival Director Rowan Smith highlighted the growth and uniqueness of the festival: "Comedy in the Vines 2026 is the biggest festival we've ever put together - over 25 comedians, 20 winemakers, and four days of entertainment; it's mammoth! We're thrilled to be bringing George Lewis to Australia for the very first time. His online videos have been seen by nearly everyone, but after his huge sold-out UK stand-up tour, I know our audience is in for a treat. There really is nowhere else you can watch world class comedy, learn from a Master of Wine, run through cherry orchards drinking Pinot Noir, and end the night watching comedians battle it out as DJs. It's a completely unique event - and this year is the best one yet," he said.
Comedy in the Vines 2026 Line-Up
George Lewis (UK): Making his first ever trip to Australia, the global online sensation known as "the funniest dad on Instagram" brings his Aussie-exclusive performance to Comedy in the Vines after selling more than 125 shows across the UK and Ireland.
Lano & Woodley: They've been winning awards and making audiences cry-laugh for decades, now they are bringing their stupid silly nonsense to the Comedy in the Vines main stage.
Mel Buttle: Taskmaster star, creator of the viral mum character 'Lyn' and one of Australia's most in-demand comedians, Mel Buttle continues to sell out shows while entertaining millions online.
Sammy J: An adored and uniquely talented performer, Sammy J returns to Comedy in the Vines after a memorable appearance last year that festivalgoers won't soon forget.
Sashi Perera (Sri Lanka): Drawing on a life lived across multiple countries and cultures, Sashi Perera's sharp, globally-minded comedy has amassed more than 40 million views online.
Dave Thornton: Renowned for his quick wit, infectious energy and effortless crowd work, Dave Thornton remains one of Australia's most consistently entertaining live performers.
Ben Knight: From Australian television screens to Hollywood blockbuster The Fall Guy, Ben Knight has become one of the country's most engaging comedy storytellers.
Lizzy Hoo: One of Australia's most sought-after comedians, Lizzy Hoo returns to Comedy in the Vines with her trademark warmth, charm and a hilarious tendency to overshare.
Dave Hughes: One of Australia's most beloved stand-up comedians, Hughesy has built a career on sharp wit, larrikin charm and delivering exactly what audiences want: big laughs.
Geraldine Hickey: A Melbourne International Comedy Festival top award winner, Geraldine Hickey is celebrated for transforming everyday stories into unforgettable comedy.
Harry Jun: One of the fastest-rising names in Australian comedy, Harry Jun has built a massive online following and sold-out international performances with his sharp stand-up and sketches.
Merrick Watts: Grapes of Mirth founder, festival ringmaster and Comedy in the Vines Head Clown, Merrick Watts is the driving force behind the event.
Tom Ballard: Award winning comedian Tom Ballard combines intelligent hot takes and political wit into one of Australia's most distinctive stand-up acts.
Chopper: Australia's self-appointed last hard bastard, Heath Franklin's iconic Chopper character has spent more than two decades delighting and terrifying audiences in equal measure.
Lloyd Langford (UK): Taskmaster Australia champion Lloyd Langford is one of comedy's sharpest joke writers, weaving dry wit and impeccable timing into every performance.
Gillian Cosgriff: An award-winning comedian, musician and writer, Gillian Cosgriff is acclaimed for her brilliant songwriting and deeply relatable observations that turn everyday anxieties into unforgettable comedy.
Kate Dolan (UK): Fresh from winning the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Director's Choice Award, Kate Dolan is one of the hottest emerging talents on the comedy circuit.
Claire Hooper: A comedy veteran across stage, television, radio and podcasts, Claire Hooper will bring her trademark intelligence and mischief as Saturday's MC.
Frankie McNair: Best Newcomer winner Frankie McNair has become one of Australia's most exciting performers through absurd characters, brilliant storytelling and complete comedic chaos.
Nikki Britton: Known for her larger-than-life personality and high-energy performances, Nikki Britton is a powerhouse live act guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches.
Alex Ward: Approachable, quick-witted, and refreshingly real, Alex Ward is one of Australia's most exciting comedic talents and will be the MC for Sunday at Comedy in the Vines.
Dan Rath: With deceptively clever observations and dry delivery, Dan Rath has become a favourite online, and he's tipped to deliver one of the most memorable sets of the whole festival.
Urvi Majumdar: A rising star of Australian comedy, Urvi Majumdar combines effortless stage presence with razor-sharp observations that have won audiences nationwide.
In Vino Veritas with Santo Cilauro: Comedy legend Santo Cilauro joins Merrick Watts for an exclusive live conversation pairing great stories with great wine.
Dr Trevor Jones: Internationally renowned piano man and cabaret extraordinaire, Dr Trevor Jones will keep the festival singing, dancing and laughing between comedy sets.
Tina Del Twist: Australia's much loved nightingale Tina Del Twist brings her irresistible comedic wit to every corner of the festival.
DJ Pedro Moshman: The man responsible for keeping the energy high all weekend, Pedro Moshman will soundtrack the festival between performances.
Ethel Chop: Australia's favourite opinionated octogenarian will be wreaking havoc with plenty of old-school wisdom and zero patience.
Gillian Cosgriff - There's Nothing Like a Game: Gillian Cosgriff brings her smash hit cabaret gameshow to the festival - expect music, comedy and audience participation.
Wine Aerobics with Nikki Britton: Festivalgoers can kick-start Sunday with a hilariously energetic workout led by Nikki Britton before earning their first pinot of the day.
Learn to Taste Wine Like a Pro with Meg Brodtmann MW: Master of Wine Meg Brodtmann returns to guide guests through the art of wine tasting alongside Merrick Watts.
Meet Your Maker Bar: The festival's signature wine experience returns with more wineries, more tastings and direct access to some of the Yarra Valley's best winemakers.
5km Wine Run: The beloved Comedy in the Vines tradition sees participants run through the orchards with wine tastings waiting at every kilometre. A highlight of the festival for everyone who takes part.
Comedy DJ Battles: When the comedy finishes, comedians go head-to-head behind the decks in an audience-judged DJ battle packed with questionable song choices and outfits, as well as fierce competition.
More artists, wineries, experiences and surprises will be uncorked in the coming months.
COMEDY IN THE VINES 2026
Thursday 22 October - Sunday 25 October 2026
CherryHill Orchards | 739 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, Victoria
Tickets available at www.comedyinthevines.com.
Age Requirement: 18+ with valid ID
Accessibility: Venue is wheelchair accessible
Tickets are now on sale at comedyinthevines.com.
Created by the masterminds at Grapes of Mirth, and supported by the Victorian Government's Regional Events Fund and local partner, Tourism East, Comedy in the Vines has become an unmissable event on the national festival calendar, bringing together a raft of comedy stars, award-winning winemakers and unforgettable experiences in one spectacular destination.
Topping the bill in 2026 is an Australian exclusive appearance from UK comedy sensation George Lewis. Dubbed "the funniest dad on Instagram", Lewis has become a global phenomenon thanks to his brilliantly relatable observations on family life, toddlers, parkrun enthusiasts and everyday absurdities. With more than 500 million views online and fresh from a massive sellout UK and Ireland tour, George Lewis has become one of the biggest comedy stars in the world, and he'll be making his Australian debut exclusively at Comedy in the Vines.
George Lewis is joined by more than 25 of Australia's most loved comedians, including the legendary Lano & Woodley, and a powerhouse lineup featuring Mel Buttle, Sammy J, Geraldine Hickey, Lloyd Langford, Lizzy Hoo, Dave Hughes, Claire Hooper, Tom Ballard, Chopper, Gillian Cosgriff, Dave Thornton, Sashi Perera, Ben Knight, Frankie McNair, Harry Jun, Nikki Britton, Dan Rath, Urvi Majumdar, Alex Ward, Kate Dolan, and many more.
Returning festival favourite Merrick Watts will once again lead the festivities as founder, host and 'Head Clown', bringing together comedians, winemakers and festivalgoers for what has become one of Australia's most unique events.
The much-loved Meet Your Maker Bar returns this year, featuring more wineries, more wines and more opportunities to meet the people behind some of the Yarra Valley's finest drops. Throughout the weekend, festivalgoers can enjoy exclusive tastings, masterclasses and cellar door experiences hosted by more than 20 of the region's best winemakers.
Wine lovers can sharpen their skills at Learn to Taste Wine Like a Pro with Master of Wine Meg Brodtmann, while those seeking a less conventional wellness experience can join Nikki Britton for the festival's gloriously ridiculous Wine Aerobics session. The iconic 5km Wine Run also returns on Sunday morning, inviting participants to run, jog or stagger their way through the cherry orchards with wine tastings at every kilometre.
Merrick's, In Vino Veritas (In Wine Lies Truth) series continues with a sit-down chat with comedy icon Santo Cilauro. An exclusive live conversation over a glass of wine, sharing stories, and insights from over 30 years at the forefront of Australian comedy.
Adding to the festivities, award-winning performer Gillian Cosgriff brings her acclaimed cabaret gameshow There's Nothing Like a Game to the festival, while Dr Trevor Jones returns to keep audiences singing and dancing between comedy sets. Festival favourite Tina Del Twist will once again pop up throughout the weekend, alongside Australia's favourite octogenarian Ethel Chop, and DJ Pedro Moshman will ensure the energy never drops between performances. Then, when the comedy wraps up each night, the party begins.
Saturday night will see comedians go head-to-head in the inaugural Comedy DJ Battles, with audiences deciding which comic deserves to be crowned the festival's ultimate DJ champion.
Grapes of Mirth Head Clown Merrick Watts will be as busy as ever at the event:
"Comedy in the Vines is the highlight of my year, where I get to bring together a bunch of my best mates in comedy and wine. This year I'll be running a masterclass with one of the world's best winemakers Sarah Crowe, teaching people how to taste wine with a certified Master of Wine, Meg Brodtmann, running the traditional Sunday morning heart starter 5k run with wine tastings along the way. Then onto the main stage, sitting down for a chat with Australian comedy royalty Santo Cilauro. Honestly, I can't wait," he said.
Comedy in the Vines Festival Director Rowan Smith highlighted the growth and uniqueness of the festival: "Comedy in the Vines 2026 is the biggest festival we've ever put together - over 25 comedians, 20 winemakers, and four days of entertainment; it's mammoth! We're thrilled to be bringing George Lewis to Australia for the very first time. His online videos have been seen by nearly everyone, but after his huge sold-out UK stand-up tour, I know our audience is in for a treat. There really is nowhere else you can watch world class comedy, learn from a Master of Wine, run through cherry orchards drinking Pinot Noir, and end the night watching comedians battle it out as DJs. It's a completely unique event - and this year is the best one yet," he said.
Comedy in the Vines 2026 Line-Up
George Lewis (UK): Making his first ever trip to Australia, the global online sensation known as "the funniest dad on Instagram" brings his Aussie-exclusive performance to Comedy in the Vines after selling more than 125 shows across the UK and Ireland.
Lano & Woodley: They've been winning awards and making audiences cry-laugh for decades, now they are bringing their stupid silly nonsense to the Comedy in the Vines main stage.
Mel Buttle: Taskmaster star, creator of the viral mum character 'Lyn' and one of Australia's most in-demand comedians, Mel Buttle continues to sell out shows while entertaining millions online.
Sammy J: An adored and uniquely talented performer, Sammy J returns to Comedy in the Vines after a memorable appearance last year that festivalgoers won't soon forget.
Sashi Perera (Sri Lanka): Drawing on a life lived across multiple countries and cultures, Sashi Perera's sharp, globally-minded comedy has amassed more than 40 million views online.
Dave Thornton: Renowned for his quick wit, infectious energy and effortless crowd work, Dave Thornton remains one of Australia's most consistently entertaining live performers.
Ben Knight: From Australian television screens to Hollywood blockbuster The Fall Guy, Ben Knight has become one of the country's most engaging comedy storytellers.
Lizzy Hoo: One of Australia's most sought-after comedians, Lizzy Hoo returns to Comedy in the Vines with her trademark warmth, charm and a hilarious tendency to overshare.
Dave Hughes: One of Australia's most beloved stand-up comedians, Hughesy has built a career on sharp wit, larrikin charm and delivering exactly what audiences want: big laughs.
Geraldine Hickey: A Melbourne International Comedy Festival top award winner, Geraldine Hickey is celebrated for transforming everyday stories into unforgettable comedy.
Harry Jun: One of the fastest-rising names in Australian comedy, Harry Jun has built a massive online following and sold-out international performances with his sharp stand-up and sketches.
Merrick Watts: Grapes of Mirth founder, festival ringmaster and Comedy in the Vines Head Clown, Merrick Watts is the driving force behind the event.
Tom Ballard: Award winning comedian Tom Ballard combines intelligent hot takes and political wit into one of Australia's most distinctive stand-up acts.
Chopper: Australia's self-appointed last hard bastard, Heath Franklin's iconic Chopper character has spent more than two decades delighting and terrifying audiences in equal measure.
Lloyd Langford (UK): Taskmaster Australia champion Lloyd Langford is one of comedy's sharpest joke writers, weaving dry wit and impeccable timing into every performance.
Gillian Cosgriff: An award-winning comedian, musician and writer, Gillian Cosgriff is acclaimed for her brilliant songwriting and deeply relatable observations that turn everyday anxieties into unforgettable comedy.
Kate Dolan (UK): Fresh from winning the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Director's Choice Award, Kate Dolan is one of the hottest emerging talents on the comedy circuit.
Claire Hooper: A comedy veteran across stage, television, radio and podcasts, Claire Hooper will bring her trademark intelligence and mischief as Saturday's MC.
Frankie McNair: Best Newcomer winner Frankie McNair has become one of Australia's most exciting performers through absurd characters, brilliant storytelling and complete comedic chaos.
Nikki Britton: Known for her larger-than-life personality and high-energy performances, Nikki Britton is a powerhouse live act guaranteed to leave audiences in stitches.
Alex Ward: Approachable, quick-witted, and refreshingly real, Alex Ward is one of Australia's most exciting comedic talents and will be the MC for Sunday at Comedy in the Vines.
Dan Rath: With deceptively clever observations and dry delivery, Dan Rath has become a favourite online, and he's tipped to deliver one of the most memorable sets of the whole festival.
Urvi Majumdar: A rising star of Australian comedy, Urvi Majumdar combines effortless stage presence with razor-sharp observations that have won audiences nationwide.
In Vino Veritas with Santo Cilauro: Comedy legend Santo Cilauro joins Merrick Watts for an exclusive live conversation pairing great stories with great wine.
Dr Trevor Jones: Internationally renowned piano man and cabaret extraordinaire, Dr Trevor Jones will keep the festival singing, dancing and laughing between comedy sets.
Tina Del Twist: Australia's much loved nightingale Tina Del Twist brings her irresistible comedic wit to every corner of the festival.
DJ Pedro Moshman: The man responsible for keeping the energy high all weekend, Pedro Moshman will soundtrack the festival between performances.
Ethel Chop: Australia's favourite opinionated octogenarian will be wreaking havoc with plenty of old-school wisdom and zero patience.
Gillian Cosgriff - There's Nothing Like a Game: Gillian Cosgriff brings her smash hit cabaret gameshow to the festival - expect music, comedy and audience participation.
Wine Aerobics with Nikki Britton: Festivalgoers can kick-start Sunday with a hilariously energetic workout led by Nikki Britton before earning their first pinot of the day.
Learn to Taste Wine Like a Pro with Meg Brodtmann MW: Master of Wine Meg Brodtmann returns to guide guests through the art of wine tasting alongside Merrick Watts.
Meet Your Maker Bar: The festival's signature wine experience returns with more wineries, more tastings and direct access to some of the Yarra Valley's best winemakers.
5km Wine Run: The beloved Comedy in the Vines tradition sees participants run through the orchards with wine tastings waiting at every kilometre. A highlight of the festival for everyone who takes part.
Comedy DJ Battles: When the comedy finishes, comedians go head-to-head behind the decks in an audience-judged DJ battle packed with questionable song choices and outfits, as well as fierce competition.
More artists, wineries, experiences and surprises will be uncorked in the coming months.
COMEDY IN THE VINES 2026
Thursday 22 October - Sunday 25 October 2026
CherryHill Orchards | 739 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, Victoria
Tickets available at www.comedyinthevines.com.
Age Requirement: 18+ with valid ID
Accessibility: Venue is wheelchair accessible
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