Jay Pharoah and Sommore are headlining the third annual Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, which returns to Washington, D.C.’s The Wharf on Oct. 10-12. The event is being presented by the entertainment company Nice Crowd in partnership with Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. 

“Because They’re Funny’s momentum continues to grow and D.C., with its deep roots in comedy, is the perfect home for it,” said Nice Crowd CEO Jeff Friday and the company’s president Nicole Friday in a statement released with the news. “This festival showcases many of the top comics in the business while creating space for the next generation. We’re thrilled to have both Sommore and Jay Pharoah headlining two nights at the Anthem this year.”

Pharoah, whose comedy credentials include a six-season run on Saturday Night Live and Comedy Central’s Out of Office, will appear Oct. 11 at the Anthem and also host BTF’s flagship competition “Breakout Comedian of the Year.” Six finalists will be vying for the $10,000 grand prize plus the opportunity to sign with Hollywood talent agency Innovative Artists.

Nicknamed the Queen of Comedy, Sommore is known for her stand-up specials as well as roles in films such as Friday After Next and Soul Plane. She will hit the Anthem stage on Oct. 12 and host the Hey Ladies Comedy Experience, whose lineup includes actress-singer Tisha Campbell, who starred in the popular television series Martin and My Wife and Kids.

“We’re thrilled to present the third annual Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival,” said Events DC president/CEO Angie M. Gates in the press announcement. “This event not only positions the District as a premier comedy destination but also shines a spotlight on emerging talent. We’re excited to welcome major acts, including Jay Pharoah, to our city, and I can’t wait for comedy fans from around the world to experience the unforgettable performances and vibrant energy of this world-class festival.”

BTF will round out its three-day fest with panels, podcasts and an open mic event for local Washington, D.C, comics among other offerings. See the BTF events schedule on the festival’s website.