Nate Bargatze Sets New Attendance Record at KFC Yum! Center During 15th Anniversary Celebration

Louisville, KY (October 8, 2025) – As the KFC Yum! Center kicked off its 15th anniversary week, comedian Nate Bargatze has officially made history. Performing to a sold-out crowd of approximately 19,000 fans on Sunday night, Bargatze now holds the title for the highest-attended comedy show in the venue’s history, surpassing the previous record set by fellow comedian Shane Gillis just two months prior.
 
Both record-breaking shows were produced by Outback Presents, a leading independent promoter that has helped shape the surge in arena-sized comedy events nationwide. Known for its focus on top-tier stand-up acts, Outback Presents has been instrumental in transforming live comedy into a major draw at large venues like the KFC Yum! Center.
 
“There’s no better way to celebrate our 15th anniversary than with nearly 19,000 fans laughing together under our roof,” said Eric Granger, General Manager of the KFC Yum! Center. “The fan’s reaction to Nate Bargatze’s humor was incredible to witness. Nights like this remind us why live events are so special and how important these experiences are for our city.”
 
The milestone performance reflects a larger trend: comedy shows are becoming some of the hottest tickets in live entertainment. As audiences crave shared experiences and relatable humor, more and more comedians are stepping into arena tours and succeeding. Later this fall, the KFC Yum! Center will welcome two more top comedy acts: Katt Williams, who returns to the arena on November 7, 2025 and Gabriel Iglesias, who performs at the KFC Yum! Center for the first time on November 21, 2025.
 
Nate Bargatze, often described as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” has gained a devoted following with his clean humor and laid-back style. His comedy resonates across generations, drawing comparisons to greats like Jim Gaffigan and Brian Regan. Bargatze's relatability, sharp storytelling, and Southern charm have helped him become one of the most in-demand comedians in the country.
 
The record-setting night held even more meaning, as Bargatze has strong ties to Louisville – his parents are originally from the city, and the performance felt like a homecoming for the comedian and his dad who opened for Bargatze at the KFC Yum! Center.
 
The arena's upcoming schedule features a dynamic mix of music, sports, and special events, including the arena's official 15th anniversary concert Zack Top, Billy Strings, Lindsey Stirling, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, Brandon Lake, and University of Louisville basketball.
 
For a full calendar of events and ticket information, visit kfcyumcenter.com.