After spending more than 40 years in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival moved to Boulder, Colorado on a 10-year contract starting in 2027.
This is a loss for Park City and Utah. The 2024 Music Festival, held from January 18 to 28, attracted 72,840 attendees. Over the course of 12 months, its economic impact was estimated at US$132 million.
The festival began in 1981 by actor and director Robert Redford in Park City. Boulder is 10 times more than Park City and requires more theaters and venues.
“It’s clear that Boulder is an ideal location for building a festival future, marking a key strategic step in its natural development,” Sundance Institute chairman EBS Burnough said in a statement.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox called Sundance’s decision a mistake. He said the special legislative session will determine a $3.5 million bid to keep Sundance part. One of his ideas was to create a new film festival.
Boulder won two other city finals Cincinnati and Salt Lake City. The festival will be located in downtown Boulder and will use the venue around the pedestrian-only Pearl Street Mall.
In addition to screenings, the festival has become a display of major brands. Companies like Acura, Audible, Canon, Hyatt, and United Airlines host activations and lounges.
Time cannot be ignored
Sundance announced its relocation on March 27. On the same day, Utah became the first state to ban flags in schools and government buildings, including the Pride Flag.
“Unfortunately, a recent bill passed by the Utah Legislature and some legislators’ comments have not helped us with the holiday reservations here,” Park City Mayor Nann Worel said in her Park City address.
“The timing of this legislation is with the announcement of the Sundance Film Festival’s move from its long-term residence in Park City to Boulder,” said Cameron Curtis, CEO of the Association of LGBT Conference Professionals. “While I understand that Sundance organizers have cited the logistical justification for the move, they also highlighted that Boulder’s welcome environment was a factor. This shows me that the increasing number of Utah’s exclusive policies may have affected their decisions and highlighted the tangible consequences of legislation for cultural and economic institutions.”
Sundance is the second film festival that has left Utah this year. The Slamdance Film Festival, which took place in Park City for 30 years, moved to Los Angeles in January.
Mayor Wall said Park City worked hard to preserve Sundance, Utah. “Frankly, I don’t know anything else we can do,” she said.
Jennifer Wesselhoff, president and CEO of Park City Chamber of Commerce and Visitors, expressed disappointment at the loss of Sundance. “This decision marks the end of the Park City era,” she said.
Looking ahead, Parker City plans to explore new opportunities, including events related to the 2034 Winter Olympics.
The 2026 music festival is scheduled to be held in Park City from January 22 to February 1.
