Sundance Film Festival Moves to Boulder in January 2027 After 45 Years in Utah

The Sundance Film Festival is leaving Park City, Utah after 45 years and heading to Boulder, Colorado, starting January 21-31, 2027. Founded by Robert Redford in 1978 to showcase independent films, the festival drew 85,000 in-person attendees last year. Boulder won a competitive bid over Cincinnati, Ohio, thanks to tax credits and its arts scene reputation. The move marks a major shift for the festival as it enters a new chapter under new leadership.

Why Sundance left Utah for Colorado

Sundance had outgrown Park City. Before his death in 2025, founder Robert Redford recognized the festival needed a larger home. Boulder triumphed in bidding that began in 2024, beating Cincinnati, Ohio. The move also represents a homecoming of sorts, given Redford’s history in Boulder, including a stint at CU Boulder. Tax credits and Boulder’s established arts reputation sealed the deal.

What to expect at the Boulder festival

The festival runs January 21-31, 2027. Organizers expect tens of thousands of attendees and similar numbers to last year’s 85,000 in-person visitors. A preview event at the University of Denver on September 8 will feature filmmakers Rian Johnson (Knives Out), Dee Rees (Mudbound), and producer Christine Vachon (Past Lives). Tickets for that event start at $29 for adults and $15 for students.

How to volunteer or attend

Volunteer applications open August 31. The festival has more than 2,000 positions available in media relations, customer service, ushering, and venue operations. Volunteers receive free tickets to screenings and event access. Last year’s volunteer pool included people from 21 countries. More information about festival passes and tickets will be released in September.

The festival’s legacy and impact

Since 1978, Sundance has launched careers of major directors including Quentin Tarantino (Reservoir Dogs), Jordan Peele (Get Out), and Celine Song (Past Lives). The festival also premiered the documentary Hoop Dreams. Festival Director Eugene Hernandez noted that the festival’s history is really the history of the artists who participated over decades and the risks they took. The move to Boulder positions the festival to continue that tradition in a new location.

Final Thoughts

Sundance’s relocation to Boulder marks the end of an era in Park City but opens a new chapter for the 48-year-old festival. For Colorado arts fans and job seekers, the move brings major opportunities: volunteer roles, film premieres, and Hollywood presence. Expect significant economic impact and cultural activity in Boulder during late January 2027.

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