The Sundance Film Festival, a cornerstone of independent cinema for over 40 years, has officially announced a game-changing move! Starting in 2027, Boulder, Colorado, will take the reins as the new host city for this iconic festival. It’s a monumental shift that promises to elevate the festival experience and embrace a whole new community of filmmakers and audiences!

For more than four decades, Park City, Utah, has been the cherished home of Sundance, but it’s no secret that the festival has outgrown its original venue. As attendance numbers soared and the lineup of remarkable films kept expanding, Park City began to show signs of strain, lacking the theaters and affordable housing necessary to support such a vibrant celebration of cinema. Enter Boulder—a city that represents both a fresh start and a continuation of an incredible legacy.

Eugene Hernandez, the Sundance Film Festival Director, shared his excitement perfectly: “The Sundance Film Festival’s move to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027 is a moment to preserve and build on its four decades and continue its journey.” His words resonate with the thrill that awaits as Boulder opens its arms to independent filmmakers from around the globe. The festival will remain a melting pot of creativity, artistry, and storytelling, fostering connections among directors, actors, critics, and fervent fans!

Boulder’s serene natural landscapes and small-town charm align perfectly with the Sundance spirit, ensuring that each January, filmmakers can thrive in an environment that nurtures creativity. The festival organizers envision utilizing various theaters and venues, particularly focusing on downtown Boulder and the vibrant Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-only area bursting with life and energy. Plus, the nearby University of Colorado campus will add a youthful edge to the event, further enriching the overall experience.

But wait, there’s more! Before we make the big leap to Colorado, Sundance will have one last grand hurrah in Park City. The 2026 Sundance Film Festival, running from January 22 to February 1, promises to be an unforgettable send-off filled with classic nostalgia and electrifying new films. It’s an opportunity to celebrate what has made the festival such a pivotal gathering point for independent cinema.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate as we bid farewell to Park City and welcome Boulder into the Sundance family! Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or someone who has always dreamed of diving into the world of independent films, this transition symbolizes growth, opportunity, and the unyielding spirit of storytelling that brings us all together. Let’s embark on this new journey—Boulder, we can’t wait to see you shine!