Fridays and Saturdays Evenings at Pickathon’s Lucky Barn are for the laughs! Each year, we bring together some of the best rising comedians for a raucous night of stand-up comedy. It’s a Pickathon tradition that’s seen the rise of comics like Kyle Kinane, Ian Karmel, Amy Miller, and more! This year, Portland’s own Shain Brenden has curated our comedy lineup. Shain’s been a key part of Pickathon’s Comedy programming for a bit and it’s awesome to have him taking the reigns. Here’s him speaking about being a “biracial angel”! Shain’s a fixture of the PDX Comedy scene, a husband, father, and military veteran who uses his life experiences and knack for storytelling to paint a picture of a man ‘just trying his best with what he has.’ He also co-hosts a weekly podcast called ASSVILLE!

“I’m very excited about the lineup of comedians for Pickathon this year!” says Shain. “We have a great mix of local comics that match the vibe of Pickathon that I’m sure the crowds will love. I’m excited for folks to see this year’s headliner Alex Hooper! Alex is an explosive, hilarious, ball of positivity and the perfect comedian to headline the festival. This is my first year running the show after the great Amy Miller passed me the baton so I’m excited for everyone to join us and have a great time.”

Shain’s bringing along fellow Portland comics like Imani Denae. Denae’s a big rising name in NW comedy, creator of the podcast Rap Dumba$$ and IDKComedy greeting cards. Denae has an excellent spot here talking about training up her white friends like Pokemon. LaughsPDX.com (the go-to website for all things Portland comedy) founder Brent Lowery is also joining the Pickathon Comedy Lineup this year, as is Jaren George, voted one of Portland Mercury’s Undisputable Geniuses of Comedy for 2023 (Shain is one too!). Comedian, actor, and professional roaster (and headliner!) Alex Hooper is another highlight, blending dark humor with silly positivity through a variety of personal stories. He once took on the judging panel of America’s Got Talent in a roast, so he’ll be bringing some spice to Pickathon this year. Local comic Cameron Peloso rounds out this year’s comedy lineup after being recently voted Willamette Week’s Funniest Person In Portland!