Sundance Film Festival Finds a New Home in Boulder, Colorado in 2027

Boulder's Vibrant Community of Artists, Enthusiastic Audiences, and Breathtaking Rocky Mountains Will Provide the Setting for the Future Sundance Film Festival starting in January 2027.

In a landmark decision following an extensive search for a new home, the Sundance Institute announced today that the renowned Sundance Film Festival will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, beginning in 2027. Known for its commitment to independent storytelling and groundbreaking films, the Festival will transition from its long-time base in Park City, Utah, to a city celebrated for its natural beauty, engaged community, and vibrant arts scene.

"This decision was informed by a detailed evaluation of the key components essential to creating our Festival," said Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair. "During the process, it became clear that Boulder is the ideal location in which to build our Festival's future, marking a key strategic step in its natural evolution. We have a profound appreciation for the finalist cities and their communities — including Boulder, Colorado, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Salt Lake City, Utah — who presented overwhelmingly strong proposals. We sincerely value the steadfast support from our staff and board as we have ventured on this exploration together."

The Sundance Film Festival is the largest artist program under the nonprofit Sundance Institute. It stands as a global beacon for original storytellers and audiences seeking innovative voices and fresh perspectives. The move to Boulder signifies a transformative step forward in expanding its mission.

"Boulder is an art town, tech town, mountain town, and college town. It is a place where the Festival can build and flourish. This is the beginning of a bold, new journey as we invite everyone to be part of our community and to be entertained and inspired. We can’t imagine a better fit than Boulder," said Amanda Kelso, Sundance Institute Acting CEO.

With its dynamic blend of culture and nature, Boulder offers the ideal setting for independent film to thrive. The Festival will center around downtown Boulder, utilizing a variety of theaters and venues, including spaces near the iconic Pearl Street Mall and select locations on the University of Colorado (CU) Boulder campus. With the Rocky Mountains as a breathtaking backdrop, Boulder provides a unique and inspiring atmosphere for filmmakers and audiences alike.

The exterior of the Egyptian Theater in Park City, Utah.

Founded in 1981 by Robert Redford, the Sundance Institute has long been committed to fostering the careers of independent filmmakers. The Festival has evolved into a global event where artists share groundbreaking stories that broaden perspectives and spark conversations.

"I founded the Sundance Institute with a commitment to discovering and developing independent artists, with the Sundance Film Festival serving as the platform for stories to help expand audiences and broaden the landscape," said Robert Redford, Sundance Institute President and Founder. "That mission remains even more critical today and will continue to be our core principle. Words cannot express the sincere gratitude I have for Park City, the state of Utah, and all those in the Utah community that have helped to build the organization. As change is inevitable, we must always evolve and grow. This move will ensure that the Festival continues its work of risk-taking, supporting innovative storytellers, fostering independence, and entertaining and enlightening audiences."

Local leaders and residents are thrilled to welcome Sundance to Boulder. "We are deeply honored that Boulder has been selected to host the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027," said Charlene Hoffman, Visit Boulder CEO. "Creativity, innovation, and expression are at the heart of what makes Boulder special, and we’re ready to welcome storytellers and cinema lovers from around the world. 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."

Governor Jared Polis also expressed excitement over the economic and cultural impact the move will bring. "Colorado is thrilled to welcome the Sundance Film Festival to its new home in Boulder starting in 2027. Here in our state, we celebrate the arts and film industry as a key economic driver, job creator, and important contributor to our thriving culture. Now, with the addition of the iconic Sundance Film Festival, we can expect even more jobs and a huge benefit for our small businesses."

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival will remain in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, from January 22 to February 1, 2026, allowing the community to celebrate its rich legacy. As the Festival prepares for its next chapter in Boulder, the Institute acknowledges the invaluable contributions of Utah.

"The Sundance Film Festival’s move to Boulder, Colorado in 2027 preserves and builds on its four-decade journey. Together we continue to create a Festival that acts as a vibrant space for independent films and filmmakers to shine. A place where each January, a community of artists, industry, and audiences can gather to discover what’s new in global storytelling," said Eugene Hernandez, Sundance Film Festival Director and Head of Public Programming.

As Boulder eagerly awaits its debut as the new home of the Sundance Film Festival, anticipation builds for a future where independent film continues to thrive, voices are uplifted, and stories continue to inspire audiences around the world.