The Sundance Film Festival, a beacon of independent cinema since its inception in 1985, is bidding farewell to its longtime home in Utah. Organizers announced Thursday that the festival will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, beginning in 2027—a decision that marks the end of an era for Park City and poses significant economic and cultural challenges for the state.
Why This Move Matters
Sundance’s departure deals a heavy blow to Utah’s economy. In 2024 alone, the festival drew 72,000 attendees and injected $106.4 million into the state through visitor spending, per an economic impact report. For decades, the event has been a winter tourism cornerstone, supporting local businesses, from hotels to restaurants. Its exit leaves a gap that will be difficult to fill.
The Road to Relocation
The seeds of this decision were planted last April when Sundance organizers revealed they were exploring a new permanent home after 2026. Key factors driving the move include:
Infrastructure strain: Park City’s small-town logistics struggled with bumper-to-bumper traffic and soaring lodging costs during the festival.
Political tensions: Utah’s recent legislative ban on pride flags in public buildings reportedly influenced the decision. At the time of the announcement, Gov. Spencer Cox had neither signed nor vetoed the controversial bill.
The Bidding War
Boulder and Cincinnati emerged as finalists last September, competing against joint proposals from Salt Lake City and Park City. Other contenders included Atlanta, Louisville, and Santa Fe. Boulder’s winning pitch emphasized its vibrant arts scene, modern infrastructure, and progressive values—a stark contrast to Utah’s recent political climate.
Robert Redford’s Farewell
Festival founder Robert Redford struck a bittersweet tone in his statement: “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.” He acknowledged the inevitability of change, adding, “As change is inevitable, we must always evolve and grow, which has been at the core of our survival.”
What’s Next for Utah—and Boulder?
For Utah, the loss raises urgent questions about winter tourism and cultural identity. State leaders had fiercely campaigned to retain Sundance, but Boulder’s financial muscle and alignment with the festival’s inclusive ethos ultimately prevailed. Meanwhile, Boulder faces the challenge of preserving Sundance’s indie spirit while scaling up to host an event of its magnitude.
The Bigger Picture
Sundance’s relocation underscores the growing clash between cultural institutions and political landscapes. It also highlights the fierce competition among cities to attract high-profile events—a battle where financial incentives and social values increasingly tip the scales.
