If you love a hearty laugh, the finest city will not disappoint you. San Diego is filled with stand-up comedy shows that can be enjoyed at several bars and clubs on any day of the week. But what you may not know is that you too can become an active member of the comedy scene by participating in one of the many open mics hosted around town. If you have never stepped on a stage before, open mics are a great way to break the ice and build confidence. You don’t need to be the next Louis C.K. or Sarah Silverman to have some fun delivering jokes to a crowd that may or… may not be interested in what you have to say. From least to most popular, here are five places where you can get your feet wet!
- Winston’s Bar
Winston’s is not a comedy club, but a dive bar. That’s why it’s so much fun. Its crowds are eclectic and at times rowdy. Be prepared to laugh as you provide laughs.
Where: 1921 Bacon St, San Diego, CA 92107
When: Fridays, 6 p.m.
How: Contact Alan Handerson or Andrew Deans on Facebook days in advance and get 5 minutes of stage time
- The Salty Frog
The Salty Frog hosts a mixed mic. That means everybody, including musicians, are welcome to perform. If you want to start with a small, comfortable stage, The Salty Frog is the place for you.
Where: 992 Palm Ave, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
When: Wednesdays, 9 p.m.
How: Show up and sign up at 8:45 p.m. Each comedian gets 6 or 8 minutes of stage time depending on the turnout.
- The Comedy Palace
The Palace is loved by local comedians for its comfortable environment, filled with supportive crowds and enriched by pub-style food.
Where: 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123
When: Tuesdays, 7 p.m.
How: Show up and sign up at 6:30 p.m. You get 3 minutes of stage time or 5 if you consume food/beverages.
- The Mad House Comedy Club
Located in the heart of downtown, The Mad House Comedy club hosts open mics every single night. So, if you cannot have enough of performing, this is the place for you.
Where: Westfield Horton Plaza, 502 Horton Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
When: Sun./Mon. 8:30 p.m., Tues./Wed./Thurs. 9:30 p.m., Fri./Sat. 11:30 p.m.
How: Email openmic@madhousecomedyclub.com on Sundays between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Include your name and on which days of the week you would like to perform. Names will be randomly drawn and posted on The Madhouse Comedy Club Facebook page. You get 3 minutes of stage time.
- The Comedy Store
The stage at The Comedy Store may be small, but the biggest names in comedy, from Robin Williams to David Letterman, have performed there. Will you be next?
Where: 916 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
When: Sundays, 7 p.m.
How: Call (858) 454-9176 between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Sundays to give your name. Call again at 4:30 p.m. to find out if your name has been drawn. You get 3 minutes of stage time.
Nick Hancock 
Steve Anderson 
Grace Chaves