Four days of stand-up, wine tastings, live music and festival chaos are heading back to the Yarra Valley this spring, with Comedy in the Vines returning to CherryHill Orchards from 22 to 25 October 2026.
The much-loved event has steadily grown into one of Victoria’s most distinctive regional festivals, combining some of the country’s biggest comedy names with premium wine experiences in the heart of wine country. This year’s edition is shaping up to be its largest yet, featuring more than 25 comedians, over 20 winemakers and a packed program of tastings, talks, masterclasses and after-dark entertainment.
Leading the line-up is an Australian exclusive appearance from UK comedy sensation George Lewis. Known to millions online for his sharply observed takes on parenting and everyday life, Lewis arrives fresh from a sold-out UK and Ireland tour and will make his Australian debut exclusively at the festival.
Joining him are Australian comedy favourites including Lano & Woodley, Mel Buttle, Sammy J, Geraldine Hickey, Lloyd Langford, Lizzy Hoo, Dave Hughes, Claire Hooper, Tom Ballard, Gillian Cosgriff and Sashi Perera, among many others.
Festival founder and host Merrick Watts returns as Head Clown, overseeing a weekend that goes far beyond stand-up. Visitors can meet local winemakers at the popular Meet Your Maker Bar, take part in tastings and masterclasses, and learn from Master of Wine Meg Brodtmann.
Watts said, “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 takes place at CherryHill Orchards in the Yarra Valley from 22 to 25 October 2026. Join the waitlist for exclusive pre-sale access and find more information at https://comedyinthevines.com
