JFL NorthWest, Vancouver’s Just for Laughs Festival, has announced a whack of free public programming, including a new Pop-Up Party that hits Ackery's Alley.

The comedy fest is bringing back its free outdoor Block Party to the šxʷƛ̓ exən Xwtl’a7shn (formerly the QET Plaza) on February 15 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and on February 18th from 5 p.m.to 8 p.m.

Head there before and after shows to check out the big screen playing Just For Laughs classic TV standup specials. Tim Horton's will be on-site, offering free coffee and hot chocolate, while there will also be a beverage garden featuring Bomber Brewing, Appleton Rum, and Aperol, plus the Reef Runner food truck. An LED Games Tent, photo opportunities with JFL NorthWest mascots Victor and Kevin the Owl, and more are on the roster.

Friday (February 15) features DJ Flula, from Pitch Perfect 2, working the decks. Other free live music that evening includes Sophia Danai, and Adrienne featuring Drix. On February 18, look for Kevin McLachlin’s Flight of the Conchords tribute, Coldwater Road, and Ruploops.

The first of two free Pop-Up parties takes place in Ackery’s Alley on Thursday night (February 14) from 5 to 8 p.m. Patrons can enjoy $5 cans of Bomber Beer, free Tim Hortons coffee, live music from Adam Bailie and Chersea, and a DJ O show. On February 19 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., festival fans can indulge in the same treats, along with music by the New Shackletons and Derek Pitts. The same night, Fake Ghost Tours with comedians Abdul Aziz, Shawn O’Hara, and Aaron Read will leave from the site every hour, on the hour.

With the support of Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia, through the Amplify BC fund, JFL NorthWest has also introduced more than 25 live musical acts into the festival mix, with performances at select shows taking place at the Vogue, the Rio, Vancity Theatre, and the Fox Cabaret throughout the fest.

JFL NorthWest runs from February 14 to 23.