Sundance Film Festival Announces Relocation to Boulder, Colorado, Set for 2027

In a significant development for the independent film industry, the Sundance Film Festival has confirmed its decision to move to Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027. This announcement came after a thorough year-long search for a new venue, as organizers expressed the festival had outgrown its long-standing home in Park City, Utah.

For decades, Park City has been synonymous with Sundance, offering a beautiful snowy backdrop and a vibrant setting for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. However, festival organizers cited a lack of adequate facilities, including theaters and affordable housing, as crucial reasons for the relocation.

The Decision-Making Process

After evaluating several potential locations, including Salt Lake City, Cincinnati, and Boulder, the decision to choose Boulder came down to its natural beauty and engaged community. The festival’s leadership felt that Boulder’s unique blend of characteristics offers the perfect environment for fostering the arts and continuing Sundance’s legacy.

Amanda Kelso, acting CEO of the Sundance Institute, shared insights about the rationale behind the move. In her words, “Boulder is a tech town, a college town, an arts town, and a mountain town. With a population of around 100,000, it provides us the space for future expansion.” This growth opportunity is crucial as Sundance continues to evolve as North America’s most extensive independent film event.

Local Support and Economic Impact

The relocation is expected to benefit Boulder significantly. Local officials have already pledged $34 million in tax incentives over the next decade to secure Sundance’s move. Colorado’s Governor Jared Polis emphasized the importance of the arts, stating that the film industry contributes greatly to the state’s economy and culture.

However, Utah officials have expressed disappointment regarding the festival’s departure. Governor Spencer Cox lamented the loss and suggested that Sundance might regret leaving behind its heritage, stating, “We made that clear to their leadership and put together a highly competitive package. Ultimately, this decision is theirs to make, but I believe it’s a mistake and that, one day, they’ll realize they left behind not just a place, but their heritage.”

A New Era for Sundance

While the transition from Park City to Boulder marks a monumental change for Sundance, it does not signify a departure from the festival’s core identity. The Boulder location maintains a mountain feel while removing the financial strain posed by a ski-town setting. Notably, Boulder has a rich arts culture and features elements such as the four-block Pearl Street pedestrian mall, which has the potential to develop into a vibrant hub similar to Park City’s Main Street.

The University of Colorado’s Macky Auditorium is expected to host various events during the festival, providing an academic ambiance that complements the spirit of independent cinema.

Founder Robert Redford’s Approval

Robert Redford, the iconic founder of the Sundance Institute, has endorsed the move. He expressed deep gratitude for Park City and its community in a statement. Redford acknowledged the importance of adaptability in maintaining the festival’s vitality, saying, “As change is inevitable, we must always evolve and grow, which has been at the core of our survival.”

This evolution aligns with Sundance’s founding principles, which have championed independent filmmakers by offering resources such as workshops and labs throughout the year, beyond the annual festival.

Considerations Influencing the Move

While politics did not dictate the relocation process, local dynamics played a role in the decision-making. Boulder was selected partly because of its overall welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the inclusive ethos established in Park City. The sensitive nature of local legislation, particularly bills related to inclusivity, was acknowledged, but festival leaders insisted that their guiding principles drove the relocation effort.

Ebs Burnough, chair of the Sundance Institute board, elaborated on this, saying, “This process started 18 months ago and we’ve been in Utah for 40 years. So politics really didn’t guide the process. It was truly about evolution. That’s where it landed.”

Looking Ahead

As the festival gears up for its final edition in Park City, scheduled for January 2026, many anticipate what Boulder will bring to the Sundance experience. Sundance has long been recognized as a key player in the American film landscape, providing a platform for numerous filmmakers and showcasing ground-breaking stories.

The festival’s relocation aims not only to maintain but to enhance the experience for attendees. Estimates suggest that in 2024, the festival attracted 72,840 individuals, with a substantial portion coming from outside Utah, generating considerable economic benefits for the local community. However, the festival has also faced challenges, such as conflicts with the ski industry as visitor numbers surged in January, leading to crowded accommodations and available resources.

In conclusion, the transition to Boulder is a bold step as Sundance seeks to continue its legacy while adapting to the changing landscape of independent cinema. This move places Sundance alongside other prominent film festivals in Colorado, such as the Telluride Film Festival, increasing Colorado’s status as a hub for cinematic talent and innovation.