After more than four decades in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival is embarking on a new journey. Beginning in 2027, this renowned independent film festival will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, as announced by the Sundance Institute. This move marks a significant shift, as the festival, founded by Robert Redford in 1981, has long been synonymous with the snowy mountains and vibrant community of Park City. The decision to move to Boulder, a town known for its small-town charm, engaged community, and vibrant arts scene, signals a new era for the festival while maintaining its core mission of supporting independent artists.

The Legacy of Sundance in Park City

For over 40 years, the Sundance Film Festival has been a cornerstone of the independent film community. Established by Robert Redford, the festival has provided a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work, expand audiences, and broaden the landscape of cinema. Park City, with its picturesque snow-capped mountains and welcoming atmosphere, has been an integral part of the festival’s identity. Over the years, it has hosted countless screenings, panels, and celebrations, fostering a sense of community and creativity among filmmakers and audiences alike.

Redford’s vision for the Sundance Institute was rooted in a commitment to discovering and developing independent artists. “I founded the Sundance Institute with a commitment to discovering and developing independent artists, with the Sundance Film Festival serving as the platform for stories to help expand audiences and broaden the landscape,” Redford said in a statement. “That mission remains even more critical today and will continue to be our core principle.”

The Appeal of Boulder, Colorado

The decision to move to Boulder was not made lightly. The Sundance Institute conducted a thorough search, considering various locations before settling on Boulder. According to the news release, Boulder offers “small-town charm with an engaged community, distinctive natural beauty, and a vibrant arts scene, making it the ideal location for the Festival to grow.” The town’s commitment to the arts and its enthusiastic community aligns well with the values and goals of the Sundance Film Festival.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his excitement about the move, stating that Colorado is “thrilled” to welcome the festival. “Here in our state we celebrate the arts and film industry as a key economic driver, job creator, and important contributor to our thriving culture. Now, with the addition of the iconic Sundance Film Festival, we can expect even more jobs, a huge benefit for our small businesses including stores and restaurants,” he added.

The Economic and Cultural Impact

The Sundance Film Festival’s move to Boulder is expected to have a significant economic impact on the local community. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, including filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts. This influx of visitors will bring substantial economic benefits to Boulder, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy.

Culturally, the festival will enrich Boulder’s already vibrant arts scene. The screenings, panels, and events will provide new opportunities for local artists and filmmakers to engage with the global film community. The festival’s presence will also enhance Boulder’s reputation as a hub for creativity and innovation, attracting more artists and filmmakers to the area.

The Final Sundance in Park City

The festival will take place in Park City for the final time in January 2026. This final installment in Park City will be a celebration of the festival’s long-standing relationship with the community and a farewell to the place that has been its home for over 40 years. It will be a time to reflect on the festival’s impact and the countless stories and connections it has fostered over the decades.

Looking Ahead to a New Era

As the Sundance Film Festival prepares to begin its new chapter in Boulder, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation. The move represents a fresh start while maintaining the festival’s core values and mission. Boulder’s welcoming community, commitment to the arts, and natural beauty make it an ideal location for the festival to continue its legacy of supporting independent artists.

Robert Redford expressed his gratitude to both Park City and Boulder, highlighting the importance of community support. “I have sincere gratitude for Park City being the festival’s home for decades, and I am grateful to the Boulder community for its support,” he said. “I look forward to seeing what the future holds for the Festival there.”

A New Home for a Timeless Festival

The move of the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder, Colorado, marks a significant milestone in its history. While the festival bids farewell to Park City, it embraces the new opportunities and possibilities that Boulder offers. The Sundance Film Festival’s commitment to independent artists and its role in expanding the landscape of cinema will continue to thrive in its new home. As the festival embarks on this new journey, it carries with it the legacy of its past while looking forward to a bright and vibrant future in Boulder.