Next week, if it is funny, it is probably in Las Vegas

Monday, Nov. 13, 2006 | 7:34 a.m.

I f you don't have a sense of humor, Las Vegas is not the place to be next week.

Many of the nation's top comedians will perform during "The Comedy Festival," which runs Tuesday through Saturday at Caesars Palace.

The performers include Bill Maher, Dave Chappelle, Don Rickles, Bob Saget, Kathy Griffin, Dave Attell, Nick Cannon, Sarah Silverman, Dane Cook and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog. There are several adults-only shows, including "The Jim Henson Company's Puppet Up! - Uncensored."

The festivities begin at 5 p.m. Tuesday with the opening of The Comedy Festival Village in Caesars Palace's outdoor Roman Plaza amphitheater. The village will feature live entertainment, food, drinks and prizes throughout the festival.

"Comic Relief 2006," hosted by Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg and Robin Williams, caps the festival from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Colosseum. Proceeds from the benefit will be used to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina and in the rebuilding of New Orleans.

Another festival highlight: Chris Rock will receive The Comedian award at 9 p.m. Friday in the Palace Ballroom. Last year, Jerry Seinfeld was the honoree.

The festival is produced by HBO and concert promoter AEG LIVE.

-- Jerry Fink