Sundance Film Festival to Relocate to Boulder, Colorado in 2027
The Sundance Film Festival, a cornerstone event for independent filmmakers, will officially make Boulder, Colorado its new home beginning in 2027. This announcement comes after a decision made by the Sundance Institute’s board of trustees, which prioritized the vibrant arts community of Boulder over competitors Cincinnati and Salt Lake City.
Significant Decision Process
In an interview, Ebs Burnough, chair of the Sundance Institute’s board, highlighted the robust discussions that shaped the decision, noting, “There was overwhelming support for Boulder.” Over the past 18 months, the board engaged in a comprehensive evaluation process, weighing various factors to ensure the festival’s ethos and operational needs matched the prospective locations.
Boulder: A Fitting Choice
Amanda Kelso, acting chief executive of the Sundance Institute, emphasized the unique characteristics that make Boulder an attractive venue. “It has this wonderful vibe to it. You can go hiking or biking nearby. But it’s also an art town, it’s a tech town, it’s a college town. So it’s a really vibrant place,” she stated.
Transitioning from Park City
The decision to relocate was unveiled last year during a period when Sundance formally explored options for a new venue. After attracting interest from 67 potential cities, the process was narrowed down to 13, eventually leading to Boulder’s selection. The final festival in Park City, Utah, will run from January 22 to February 1, 2026.
The Future of Sundance Amid Industry Changes
The relocation comes at a time when the film industry is grappling with rapid changes in production and distribution. Eugene Hernandez, the festival director, noted, “This is a festival that has been undergoing change for the past five years, and this is the next step.” He assured stakeholders that the festival’s commitment to supporting artists and fostering global discovery remains intact.
New Venue Highlights
In Boulder, locations such as the Macky Auditorium, Boulder Theater, and Dairy Arts Center are poised to host festival events, similar to previous venues like the Eccles Theatre and Park City Library in Utah. Kelso expressed optimism about the opportunity for growth and expansion in Boulder, remarking, “This is an opportunity for us to give ourselves space for growth.”
Considerations Behind the Move
The festival’s selection process considered several logistical components, including:
- Event capability and performance venues of adequate size
- Transportation access, particularly proximity to an international airport
- Accommodation availability for a large influx of attendees
- Regional political climate and its alignment with the festival’s values
Unlike its competitors, Boulder is seen as a progressive hub in a politically aligned state, reducing potential conflicts with Sundance’s inclusive ethos. Burnough remarked that the decision was influenced by a desire to evolve while embracing risk as part of Sundance’s foundational philosophy.
Community and Economic Impact
Colorado Governor Jared Polis reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the arts and its potential economic benefits, stating that the arrival of the Sundance Film Festival will support job creation and bolster local businesses, including retail and restaurants.
Enduring Legacy and Future Outlook
Having played a crucial role in the careers of filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Ava DuVernay over its 40-year history in Utah, the Sundance Film Festival now embarks on a new chapter in Boulder. “As change is inevitable, we must always evolve and grow,” said Robert Redford, founder of the Sundance Institute. He expressed gratitude for the Boulder community’s support while looking ahead to the festival’s future in its new home.