Sundance Film Festival to Move from Park City to Boulder

The iconic independent film festival faces an uncertain future as it leaves its longtime home for a new location in Colorado.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 2:55pm

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After 45 years in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival will be packing up and moving to Boulder, Colorado in 2027. The festival's founder, Robert Redford, passed away in September, adding to the sense of finality. While Sundance has evolved over the years, it still uncovers smart, soulful independent films that provide a counterpoint to Hollywood blockbusters. The move to Boulder, an artsy college town, raises questions about whether the festival can maintain its prestige and attract the same power players without the familiar setting of Park City.

Why it matters

The Sundance Film Festival has long been a launchpad for the careers of acclaimed filmmakers and the discovery of groundbreaking independent films. Its move from the tony ski town of Park City to the college community of Boulder, Colorado could threaten the festival's identity and influence in the industry.

The details

After 45 years in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival will be moving to Boulder, Colorado in 2027. The festival's founder, Robert Redford, passed away in September, adding to the sense of finality around the move. While Sundance has evolved over the years, becoming less edgy, it still uncovers smart, soulful independent films that provide a counterpoint to sequel-heavy Hollywood blockbusters. This year's festival featured standout films like "Josephine," "The Invite," and "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!" However, there were also some duds, like "Carousel" and "The Gallerist." The move to Boulder, an artsy college town that National Geographic once named the "happiest city in America," raises questions about whether Sundance can maintain its prestige and attract the same power players without the familiar setting of Park City.

  • The Sundance Film Festival will pack up and leave Park City, Utah after the 2026 edition.
  • The festival will move to Boulder, Colorado starting in 2027.

The players

Robert Redford

The founder of the Sundance Film Festival, who passed away in September 2025.

Beth de Araújo

The writer-director of the festival standout film "Josephine," which won both the grand jury prize and audience award.

Olivia Wilde

The director of the acclaimed comedy "The Invite," which sparked a bidding war and was ultimately acquired by A24 for over $10 million.

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What they’re saying

“Even if you don't care about independent films whatsoever, this festival regularly champions the future writers and directors of your favorite blockbusters.”

— Johnny Oleksinski, Author (nypost.com)

“Just wait till a bunch of cranky coastal movie critics come to visit. That'll knock their rating down a peg.”

— Johnny Oleksinski, Author (nypost.com)

What’s next

It remains to be seen whether the Sundance Film Festival can maintain its prestige and influence after moving from Park City to Boulder. The festival's future will depend on its ability to attract the same power players, discover new talent, and generate buzz without the familiar setting of its longtime home.

The takeaway

The Sundance Film Festival's move from Park City to Boulder represents a significant shift for the iconic independent film event. While the festival has evolved over the years, it still plays a crucial role in championing the next generation of filmmakers. The success of this transition will be closely watched by the industry, as Sundance's ability to maintain its relevance and discover new talent could have far-reaching implications for the future of independent cinema.