- The Sundance Film Festival will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027 after more than four decades in Utah. Following a months-long bid process, Boulder beat out Salt Lake City and Cincinnati to host the iconic independent film event.
- The move comes amid political tensions in Utah. Park City mayor cited a bill banning Pride flags from government buildings as a challenge in retaining the festival.
- Sundance’s departure could have significant economic impacts on Utah, as last year’s event generated $132 million in GDP and supported 1,730 jobs.
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The Sundance Film Festival is leaving Utah after more than four decades. Its new home? Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027.
The Sundance Institute announced the move after a months-long bid process that began in fall 2023. Boulder beat out two finalist cities—Salt Lake City, Utah and Cincinnati, Ohio—for the rights to host one of the world’s most iconic celebrations of independent film.
“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, acting CEO of the Sundance Institute, in the official announcement.
Festival relocation follows political tension in Utah
The decision to move the Sundance Film Festival comes amid growing tension between Utah’s conservative politics and the festival’s progressive values. Recently, Utah lawmakers passed a bill banning Pride flags from government buildings. At the time of the announcement, the governor had not yet signed or vetoed the bill.
Deadline reports Park City Mayor Nann Worel said she and her team worked with state elected officials and stakeholders to reimagine the festival’s role in Utah. However, political challenges made that difficult.
“Unfortunately, a recent bill passed by the Utah legislature and comments made by some legislators have not been helpful in our bid to keep the festival here,” Worel said in her annual State of Park City address.
Economic impact of Sundance leaving Utah
Beyond politics, the festival’s departure could have a lasting financial impact on Utah.
According to the 2024 Sundance Festival Economic Impact Report, last year’s event brought in $132 million in gross domestic product for the state. It supported 1,730 Utah jobs, generated $69.7 million in wages, and resulted in $13.8 million in state and local tax revenue.
Boulder officials welcome Sundance Film Festival
While Park City officials expressed disappointment, leaders in Boulder celebrated the announcement.
Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett thanked the Sundance Institute and told NBC News he’s looking forward to a “long and creative partnership.”
