The highly anticipated Sundance Film Festival is set to transition from its long-time home in Park City, Utah, to the vibrant city of Boulder, Colorado, beginning in 2027. This significant announcement was made by festival organizers alongside the Colorado Governor’s Office.

History of the Relocation Decision

The process to find a new venue for the festival has been underway for several years. In 2023, the Sundance Institute initiated a search for potential host cities, ultimately leading to Boulder being selected. Governor Jared Polis of Colorado expressed enthusiasm about the move, highlighting the state’s commitment to the arts and its potential economic benefits.

Economic Impact and Local Support

Governor Polis emphasized the economic opportunities that the Sundance Film Festival will bring to Boulder, saying, “Here in our state we celebrate the arts and film industry as a key economic driver.” The presence of such a prestigious festival is expected to boost local small businesses and create numerous jobs.

The festival has historically attracted a large audience; a study from Utah revealed that, in 2024, the festival brought in nearly 73,000 attendees and generated over $132 million in economic output.

Quotes from Festival Leadership

Ebs Burnough, Board Chair of the Sundance Institute, expressed confidence in Boulder as the future home of the festival, stating, “During the process, it became clear that Boulder is the ideal location in which to build our Festival’s future.”

Robert Redford, founder of the Sundance Institute, also commented on the move, saying, “This move will ensure that the Festival continues its work of risk-taking, supporting innovative storytellers, fostering independence, and entertaining and enlightening audiences.”

Community Efforts & Legislative Support

Boulder community leaders have actively worked to secure this transition, showcasing the city’s rich artistic culture and urging for revenue-sharing measures. One such proposal includes up to $34 million in refundable tax credits aimed at supporting the festival, which has garnered mixed reactions among lawmakers.

A Look Ahead

As the expansion to Boulder unfolds, it is expected that the Boulder Film Festival will also adjust its scheduling to accommodate the influx of visitors and events tied to Sundance. Local accommodations have pledged to manage room price increases, ensuring accessibility for attendees.

Charlene Hoffman, CEO of Visit Boulder, shared her excitement, stating, “Our walkable downtown, iconic venues, and beautiful landscape at the base of the Rocky Mountains sets the stage for the Sundance Film Festival to flourish in its next chapter.”