National Comedy Center

06/01/2026

On this day in 1966, the final episode of “The Dick Van D**e Show” aired on CBS, bringing to a close one of television’s most beloved and influential sitcoms after six seasons and fifteen Emmy Awards.

On the anniversary of the series finale, hear Dick Van D**e reflect on the show, its enduring legacy, and his creative partnership with Carl Reiner. Their groundbreaking collaboration helped shape the future of television comedy and continues to inspire generations of performers and writers.

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05/29/2026

Join us for our award-winning Memory Café at the National Comedy Center on Monday, June 1, 2026. In recognition of National Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, we invite individuals living with memory loss and their caregivers to enjoy a welcoming morning filled with connection, joy, and unforgettable comedy moments.

Held on the first Monday of every month — and always free!
Next Event: Monday, June 1
10 AM – Museum exploration
11 AM – Social time + interactive program
Register now — space is limited: ComedyCenter.org/MemoryCafe

05/27/2026

Remembering Kitty Bruce, daughter of Lenny Bruce and a National Comedy Center advisory board member:

“Kitty Bruce stewarded Lenny Bruce’s legacy like an incisive champion. We were lucky to have her as a beacon of light translating her father’s story for us in the most vivid and authentic way, so that we can share it with future generations. She carried that legacy forward through tremendous compassion for those who struggled, giving whatever she could to help those battling substance abuse. Not an ounce of anything Kitty did was self-serving; her compass was integrity – at times over prosperity or practicality – just like her father. She will be dearly missed.” — Journey Gunderson, Executive Director, National Comedy Center

Variety story: https://variety.com/2026/biz/news/kitty-bruce-dead-daughter-lenny-bruce-1236757396/

05/22/2026

The National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum are open 10 AM - 5 PM all Memorial Day weekend, including Monday! Plan your visit at ComedyCenter.org.

05/22/2026

Tonight marks the end of a 33-year pillar in television comedy. Congratulations to Stephen Colbert and the The Late Show with Stephen Colbert team for shaping this chapter of a comedy institution — bringing humor, insight, and shared cultural conversation to millions, and leaving an enduring mark on the genre.

As audiences become increasingly siloed across platforms, late-night television has remained one of the few shared spaces where humor, disagreement, and connection could coexist in our democracy. This vital part of comedy’s heritage — and the impact of “The Late Show” on comedy and our culture — will be preserved at the National Comedy Center for generations to come.

05/13/2026

“I’m honored that my contributions will be preserved for future generations at the National Comedy Center—especially because it’s a place that was meaningful to my best friend Carl Reiner, who believed in the importance of preserving comedy’s history. I know he’d be happy that our work will be around for the next 2000 years, or maybe even more.” – Mel Brooks

The National Comedy Center is proud to be the home of the Mel Brooks archive.

Comedy legend Mel Brooks has placed his career archives at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY — preserving nearly 150,000 documents and 5,000 photographs from one of the most influential careers in entertainment history.

05/12/2026

Today, on his birthday, the National Comedy Center remembers George Carlin, one of the most influential and iconic voices in comedy history.

Carlin redefined stand-up through fearless social commentary, sharp observations, and an unmistakable voice that continues to inspire generations of comedians and fans alike. The National Comedy Center is proud to be the home of George Carlin’s archives, offering an intimate look into his creative process and legendary career, including thousands of original handwritten jokes and personal artifacts.

05/08/2026

On this day one hundred years ago, the one and only Don Rickles was born. Across a career that spanned decades, Rickles made a specialty of ribbing his audiences, punching up at those in power and joining the dais for countless celebrity roasts. His ability to make audiences laugh while being the target of the joke earned him the nickname “Mr. Warmth.”

The National Comedy Center is the home of Rickles’ career archive and celebrates his lasting contributions to the art form within its interactive museum experience in Jamestown, NY.

04/30/2026

Join us for our Award-winning Memory Café at the National Comedy Center on Monday, May 4, 2026. Designed for individuals living with memory loss and their caregivers, this welcoming monthly event offers connection, joy, and a chance to revisit unforgettable comedy moments.

Always on the first Monday of every month, always free!

Next Event: Monday, May 4
10 AM museum exploration
11 AM social time + interactive program
Register now — space is limited: ComedyCenter.org/MemoryCafe

04/30/2026

We enjoyed welcoming Salamanca City Central School District to the National Comedy Center—thank you for sharing your experience and for the thoughtful work your students are doing!

Field trips like this highlight how comedy can spark meaningful conversations around storytelling, history, and civic engagement.

The National Comedy Center offers field trips for students of all ages. Here is what to expect:
• 50+ interactive, hands-on exhibits that foster creativity, dialogue, and critical thinking skills
• Connections to classroom learning objectives—from analyzing artworks to exploring complex social, cultural, and political themes
• Optional add-on educational programs aligned with age-appropriate NYS learning standards

If you’re an educator, parent, or school leader looking for an engaging, meaningful group experience—we’d love to host you.

Learn more: ComedyCenter.org/field-trips
Ask questions: [email protected]