Sundance Film Festival Moves to Boulder, Colorado

The iconic indie film festival leaves its longtime home of Park City, Utah.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:07pm

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After decades of hosting the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, the festival has announced it will be moving its operations to Boulder, Colorado starting in 2027. The decision comes after years of rising costs and logistical challenges in Park City, as well as the desire to find a new location that can better accommodate the festival's growing size and scope.

Why it matters

The Sundance Film Festival has been a major economic driver and cultural institution in Park City for over 40 years. Its departure will have a significant impact on the local economy and community. However, the move to Boulder is seen as an opportunity for the festival to reinvent itself and reach new audiences in a city with a thriving arts and film scene.

The details

Sundance organizers cited several key factors behind the decision to relocate, including the rising costs of hosting the festival in Park City's limited venue and lodging space, as well as the strains the influx of festival-goers has placed on the small mountain town's infrastructure. Boulder, with its larger venues, more hotel rooms, and proximity to a major airport, is viewed as better equipped to handle the logistical demands of the growing festival.

  • The Sundance Film Festival has been held in Park City, Utah since 1981.
  • The festival will continue to take place in Park City through 2026.
  • Starting in 2027, the Sundance Film Festival will be held in Boulder, Colorado.

The players

Sundance Film Festival

An annual film festival that showcases independent films and is one of the most prestigious events in the independent film industry.

Park City, Utah

The longtime host city of the Sundance Film Festival, located in the Wasatch Mountains.

Boulder, Colorado

The new host city for the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027, known for its thriving arts and film scene.

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What they’re saying

“Sundance has outgrown Park City, and we're excited to write the next chapter of the festival in Boulder. The city's robust arts and culture scene, world-class venues, and accessibility make it the ideal location to take Sundance into the future.”

— Keri Putnam, Executive Director, Sundance Institute (Vanity Fair)

“While we're sad to see Sundance leave Park City, we understand the festival's need to find a new home that can better accommodate its growth. Boulder is a fantastic choice, and we wish the festival all the best in its new location.”

— Mayor Andy Beerman, Mayor of Park City, Utah (Vanity Fair)

What’s next

The Sundance Film Festival will continue to be held in Park City, Utah through 2026. The festival will then move its operations to Boulder, Colorado starting in 2027.

The takeaway

The Sundance Film Festival's move to Boulder, Colorado marks the end of an era for Park City, Utah, but also an exciting new chapter for the iconic indie film event. The relocation presents both challenges and opportunities, as Sundance seeks to evolve and expand while maintaining its unique identity and connection to the independent film community.