National «She’s Funny That Way» Day

National “She’s Funny That Way” Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to female comedians. For many years, comedy was a male-dominated field. This day highlights the contributions of women in comedy and supports those who perform in films, television shows, stand-up, and live performances. The holiday is observed on March 31.

History

National “She’s Funny That Way” Day was established in 2003 by Brenda Meredith. She is the author of the book She’s So Funny, which focuses on women in comedy. The holiday was created to recognize and celebrate women who have made meaningful contributions to the comedic arts.

Historically, it has been difficult for women to gain recognition in comedy, largely due to long-standing stereotypes. Comedy as a genre dates back to Ancient Greece, but women did not begin appearing regularly in comedic roles until much later. Over time, access to comedy expanded, though female performers often faced criticism and higher expectations. Even today, reactions to women’s comedy can differ noticeably, especially in online spaces.

Interesting Facts

• Well-known female comedians include Phyllis Diller, Mae West, and Helen Kane.
• Many comedians maintain personal websites where they share information about their work and careers. Examples include Tiffany Haddish and Margaret Cho.

How to Take Part

Watch comedy films, stand-up specials, or television shows featuring female comedians. Reading books or interviews by women working in comedy is another way to explore the topic.

Sharing recommendations and favorite performances is also a simple way to recognize the day.

When is National “She’s Funny That Way” Day in 2026?

National “She’s Funny That way” Day is observed on March 31 each year.

Observations