Sundance Film Festival’s future: A new home on the horizon
The search for a new location
The Sundance Institute has embarked on an exciting journey to find a new home for the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027. After a thorough evaluation, the search has been narrowed down to three promising locations: Cincinnati, Ohio, Boulder, Colorado, and Salt Lake City/Park City, Utah.
The final contenders
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati stands out with its vibrant arts community and a strong focus on independent filmmakers. The city’s investment in arts and culture makes it a compelling candidate for hosting the festival. The thriving local scene could provide a nurturing environment for the next generation of filmmakers, fostering creativity and innovation.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is known for its large concentration of artists and a rich history of social movements. The city’s commitment to sustainability and its welcoming environment align perfectly with the values of the Sundance Institute. Additionally, Boulder’s Racial Equity Plan demonstrates a dedication to fostering an inclusive community, making it an attractive option for the festival.
Salt Lake City/Park City, Utah
Salt Lake City and Park City have the advantage of familiarity, having hosted the festival for many years. The region’s economic strength, growing diversity, and the upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City add to its appeal. Starting in 2027, the festival would revolve more around Salt Lake City with elements in Park City, ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining the festival’s legacy.
The decision-making process
The Sundance Institute has assessed each finalist based on their ethos and equity values, infrastructure, and capabilities to host the festival. The goal is to find a location that can continue to foster the diverse Sundance community and inspire the next generation of independent filmmakers. The final decision will be announced after next year’s festival, with the festival continuing in Park City and Salt Lake City for both 2025 and 2026.
Reflections from the Sundance Institute
Eugene Hernandez, Festival Director and Head of Public Programming, expressed optimism about the future of the festival. “As we move to the next phase in our search for a sustainable home for the Sundance Film Festival, we see great promise and potential in Boulder, Cincinnati, and Salt Lake/Park City. Each has shown us the blend of exciting possibilities, values, and logistics needed to produce a vibrant, inviting, and inclusive Festival. We’re excited for a future Sundance that can discover, support, and inspire artists and audiences for the next forty years.”
Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair, also shared gratitude for the finalists and the communities that welcomed the institute during the evaluation process. ”We are deeply grateful to all the finalists and appreciate the partnership and ingenuity we found in the three moving forward, as well as Atlanta, Louisville, and Santa Fe this summer. Leaders and locals in each community generously welcomed and inspired us as we explored the potential for our festival in 2027, and beyond. On behalf of the entire Sundance Institute team, thank you.”
The future of Sundance
The Sundance Film Festival has long been a beacon for independent filmmakers, providing a platform for diverse voices and innovative storytelling. As the festival looks to the future, the new location will play a crucial role in shaping its next chapter. Whether it’s the artistic vibrancy of Cincinnati, the progressive spirit of Boulder, or the established legacy of Salt Lake City/Park City, the chosen city will become the new heart of Sundance, continuing its mission to discover, support, and inspire.
For cinema enthusiasts, the anticipation of this decision adds an extra layer of excitement to the festival. The new location will not only host the festival but also become a hub for the independent film community, influencing the cultural landscape for years to come.
Stay tuned for the announcement of the new home for the Sundance Film Festival, and in the meantime, explore the trailers and information pages for some of the festival’s past highlights:
The future of Sundance is bright, and the journey to find its new home is a testament to the festival’s enduring legacy and commitment to independent cinema.