As JFL NorthWest gears up for its annual comedy festival that kicks off Thursday (March 1) and runs to March 10, it's launching a new outdoor celebration that comes complete with a beer garden.

From next Wednesday to Friday (March 7 to 9), the JFL NorthWest Block Party will liven up the Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza from 5 to 10 p.m. each night.

Patrons heading out to shows will find food trucks, various Just for Laughs stand-up specials and Just for Laughs GAGS on the big outdoor screen, as well as performances by the likes of Coldwater Road’s Patrick Spencer, musician Adrienne, and more. Tim Hortons will be serving up complimentary beverages, while Sleeman Breweries and Hopping Mad Cider sell their suds in the beer garden.

The JFL NorthWest Block Party will also feature an LED Games Tent with ping pong and foosball. Keep your eye out for the JFL mascot, Victor, too.

The fest is getting ready to host more than 100 comedians and performances at 30 venues across the city. This year’s event will also feature the first edition of the Vancouver Just For Laughs Film Festival and the inaugural Vancouver Comedy Awards on March 5. Big comedy names like Bill Burr, Trevor Noah, and Jo Koy will be performing at the nearby Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Find more schedule details here and see our guide for detailed coverage