New Sundance Location in Boulder Colorado
Sundance Film Festival Finds a New Home in Boulder, Colorado
The world of entertainment is constantly evolving, and so is one of its most celebrated events—the Sundance Film Festival. After 42 years in Salt Lake City, Utah, the renowned festival is embarking on a new chapter. Starting in 2027, Sundance will relocate to Boulder, Colorado, a city known for its scenic beauty, thriving arts community, and small-town charm.
Why Boulder, Colorado?
Boulder offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and engaged local communities, making it an ideal host for the festival. The Sundance team envisions the heart of the Festival centered in downtown Boulder, incorporating a variety of theaters and venues, including spaces around the iconic Pearl Street Mall—a pedestrian-friendly hub of activity. Additionally, the nearby University of Colorado (CU) Boulder campus will serve as a key location for festival programming and gatherings.
Sundance Film Festival Director and Head of Public Programming, Eugene Hernandez, shared his enthusiasm for the transition: “The move to Boulder in 2027 is an opportunity to build upon four decades of storytelling excellence. Each January, our Festival brings together artists, industry professionals, and audiences to celebrate independent film. Whether you’re a longtime Sundance attendee or someone who has always dreamed of experiencing the Festival, we invite you to join us in 2026 in Utah and then in 2027 in Colorado.”
@sundanceorg Saltburn meets Shiva Baby! Two greats at Sundance. “Lurker” star Archie Madekwe on “Bunnylovr” star Rachel Sennott at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. #rachelsennott #archiemadekwe #sundancefilmfestival #saltburn #shivababy #lurker
What This Means for Filmmakers and Audiences
The move is expected to provide a fresh and dynamic environment for independent filmmakers to showcase their work. Boulder’s vibrant cultural landscape, combined with its supportive community, will create an inspiring setting for creatives and film lovers alike. Attendees can expect:
- Expanded Venues – A mix of historic theaters, university spaces, and outdoor screenings.
- Engaged Local Community – Boulder’s arts and film scene will bring a fresh audience to independent cinema.
- Scenic Backdrop – The city’s breathtaking landscapes will enhance the festival experience.
@sundanceorg Producer and iconic actor Rachel Sennott confirms “Bunnylovr” is BRAT #brat #charlixcx #rachelsennott #sundance @Rachel Sennott
A Legacy of Independent Storytelling
Founded by Robert Redford in 1981, the Sundance Institute has been a champion of independent storytelling, fostering new voices and risk-taking in film. From its origins in the Utah mountains, Sundance has grown into a global platform supporting over 1,000 artists each year through labs, grants, and mentorships. The Festival itself has introduced the world to groundbreaking films and emerging talent, making it a must-attend event for cinephiles and industry professionals alike.
In Short
While the reason behind Sundance’s move from Utah remains unclear, what is certain is that its mission remains the same: to celebrate and support independent film. Boulder, with its artistic spirit and scenic charm, promises to be an exciting new home for the festival.
As we approach this new era for Sundance, film lovers can still experience the festival in Utah in 2026 before witnessing its grand debut in Colorado in 2027. Stay tuned for more updates on this historic transition!
Stay Connected
@sundanceorg Big news! Sundance Film Festival reveals Boulder, Colorado as our new location starting in 2027 and beyond. The annual event by the nonprofit Sundance Institute will continue to entertain and inspire audiences through independent film. We can’t wait to see you there! 🎬 Read more at the link in our bio. Cover photo: Justin Bilancieri #SundanceFilmFestival #IndieFilm #BoulderColorado #Colorado