NICE CROWD, in partnership with Events DC, announces the return of the Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival for its third year, bringing another weekend of non-stop laughs and rising comedic talent to The Wharf in Washington, DC from Oct. 10–12, 2025.
BTF, a comedy festival from NICE CROWD, the producers of the American Black Film Festival, is dedicated to amplifying BIPOC voices in comedy and providing a platform for the next generation of stand-up stars. Since its debut in 2023, the festival has drawn over 9,000 attendees and 1,000 comedian submissions for its “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition–an award that has helped launch real careers. Previous winners, Flo Hernandez and Alfred Kainga, were signed by Innovative Arts talent agency and awarded $10,000, demonstrating the festival’s impact in propelling comedic talent to the next level.
Since winning, Kainga (2023) has been touring nationally, headlining in cities across the country for the first time. Meanwhile, Hernandez (2024) joined the “Guey Funny” comedy tour and will be sharing the stage with comedy greats Earthquake, Bruce Bruce, Tony Rock, and Dominique on April 5, 2025, at the Texas Trust Theatre in Dallas, TX. These milestones highlight the festival’s continued success in launching comedians into national recognition and career-defining opportunities.
“As we enter our third year, the momentum behind Because They’re Funny continues to grow,” said Jeff Friday, Founder of NICE CROWD. “The overwhelming response from the comedy world reaffirms our mission to amplify BIPOC voices on a national stage. We are proud to once again partner with Events DC to bring another unforgettable weekend of laughter, culture and community to the city.”
“The Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival has quickly become one of the most exciting and dynamic festivals in the world, and we are proud to welcome the Festival back home to Washington, DC for the third year in a row,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “The city has long been a stage for cultural excellence, and this festival continues to elevate comedic talent, while bringing unforgettable experiences to residents and visitors alike.”
The three-day festival will feature headline performances, rising stand-up stars, industry panels, master classes, networking opportunities, and the highly anticipated flagship event, the Breakout Comedian of the Year competition. Drawing hundreds of entries nationwide, this competition culminates with the top six finalists competing for a $10,000 grand prize and the opportunity to secure representation by a top Hollywood talent agency, a career-defining moment for any up-and-coming comedian.
Now Accepting Submissions for the 2025 Breakout Comedian of the Year Competition Aspiring comedians from across the country are invited to submit their entries now for a chance to compete in this year’s festival. With past winners landing major talent representation and cash prizes, this is an unparalleled opportunity to be discovered.
The full festival lineup, including headlining talent, will be announced later this year.
2025 BTF partners and sponsors include presenting partner Events DC, along with programming partner LAFF MOBB.
For more details and to enter the Breakout Comedian of the Year competition, visit www.becausetheyrefunny.com.
