Sundance Film Festival Narrows Search for New Location to 3 Cities, Including Boulder and Cincinnati

As a lifelong film enthusiast who has attended numerous festivals around the globe, I am thrilled to see the Sundance Film Festival considering new locations beyond its traditional home in Park City and Salt Lake City. Each of the three finalists – Cincinnati, Boulder, and Salt Lake City/Park City – offers unique advantages that could breathe fresh life into the festival and nurture a new generation of independent filmmakers.


The Sundance Institute has whittled its hunt for a fresh Sundance Film Festival venue to just three spots: Cincinnati, Ohio, Boulder, Colorado, and the joint area of Salt Lake City and Park City, Utah.

Moving ahead, the final assessment stage begins for the selection of the permanent venue for the festival commencing in 2027 among the three cities. The choice will be disclosed following the festival next year.

The three finalists were evaluated based on their adherence to “ethics and fairness principles, as well as their ability to accommodate the festival and resources,” states the Sundance Institute. Additionally, they were assessed on “showing methods in which they will nurture the diverse Sundance community and motivate future independent filmmakers.

The festival will continue in Park City and Salt Lake City for both 2025 and 2026.

In the progression to the next stage of finding an eco-friendly home for the Sundance Film Festival, we find significant hope and capability in Boulder, Cincinnati, and Salt Lake/Park City. Each location has demonstrated a mix of intriguing opportunities, shared values, and practical aspects necessary to host a lively, welcoming, and inclusive Festival. We’re thrilled about the prospect of a future Sundance that can nurture, encourage, and inspire artists and audiences for the next four decades, according to Eugene Hernandez, Festival Director and Head of Public Programming.

The Sundance Institute highlighted various qualities that might make each selection appealing for the festival.

For Salt Lake City and Park City, not only does the advantage of being already acquainted come into play, but the institute also highlighted the economic vigor, increasing diversity, and the upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. From 2027 onwards, the festival will primarily focus on Salt Lake City, with certain aspects incorporated from Park City.

The Institute emphasized several key aspects that make Boulder attractive for many: its rich artistic community, a tradition of social activism, an inviting atmosphere, dedication to eco-friendliness, and their Race Equity Strategy.

Simultaneously, Cincinnati boasts a strong commitment to independent filmmakers, a vibrant artistic scene, and significant investments in the arts and culture.

Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair, expressed heartfelt thanks to all finalists. We admire the collaboration and creativity shown by the three progressing, as well as Atlanta, Louisville, and Santa Fe this summer. The leaders and residents in every community warmly welcomed and motivated us as we considered our festival’s potential for 2027 and beyond. On behalf of the entire Sundance Institute team, we extend our deepest gratitude.

Read More

2024-09-12 20:16