Celia Pacquola wins top award at 2026 Melbourne Comedy Festival

Celia Pacquola’s Gift Horse has taken out the top honour at the Melbourne Comedy Festival Awards, winning Most Outstanding Show.

The win arrives in her 20th year performing comedy and cements her status as one of the country’s most celebrated live acts.

Following rave reviews and strong audience demand, Pacquola has added an extra Melbourne performance, with tickets expected to move quickly.

Other major award winners include:

🏆 Director’s Choice Award
Nath Valvo (Homebody) and Kate Dolan (Trout)

🏆 Pinder Prize
Lizzy Hoo (Says Hoo?)

🏆 Piece of Wood Award
Nikki Britton (Not To Be Dramatic…)

Hosted by Josh Thomas, the 2026 awards also recognised standout show from Nathan Chin (Chinese Comedy Party, Best Newcomer), Kitty Flanagan (Glad Game, People’s Choice Award), Bron Lewis (Chaos, VicScreen Greenlight Award) and Laura Davis (Swag, Golden Gibbo).

The awards come as the festival celebrates its 40th anniversary.