Is Sundance Leaving Utah?

As a Utah filmmaker, the question of whether Sundance is leaving Utah hits close to home. Sundance has been a cornerstone of independent filmmaking in Utah for four decades, and the thought of it relocating sparks a lot of emotions. Recently, it was announced that Sundance has narrowed down its list of potential host cities to three finalists for 2027: Park City/Salt Lake City, Utah; Boulder, Colorado; and Cincinnati, Ohio. The final decision will be made after the 2025 festival, leaving us all on edge about the future.

The fact that Park City and Salt Lake City are still in the running gives some hope. Sundance is not just a festival here; it’s a tradition, a community, and a key part of Utah’s identity as a haven for indie filmmakers. But even if Sundance stays, it would be centered more in Salt Lake City, with Park City playing a secondary role. The Utah Film Commissioner aptly described the process as trying to “woo back a long-term lover,” and while the idea of the festival transitioning to Salt Lake is an adjustment, it’s still a move that keeps Sundance rooted in our state.

From the perspective of someone who has benefitted from Utah’s robust film scene, the idea of losing Sundance—or seeing it diminished—feels like a step back. While the state has plenty to offer, from economic strength to a growing, diverse population, losing Sundance would create a void. The festival has been a springboard for local filmmakers, giving us access to a global platform and drawing in creatives from all over the world. It’s not just about the films themselves but the connections, opportunities, and visibility that Sundance brings to Utah.

As Utah prepares its bid, including visions of shuttle systems between Salt Lake and Park City and closing down Main Streets to immerse festival-goers, it’s clear that the state is fighting hard to retain its connection to Sundance. Hosting the Winter Olympics in 2034 is proof that Salt Lake can handle large-scale events, and the city’s growing diversity adds to the case that it aligns with Sundance’s values of inclusion.

That said, competition from places like Boulder and Cincinnati is real. Boulder’s artistic credentials and progressive values make it a strong contender, while Cincinnati’s recent film industry growth and commitment to arts and culture have turned heads. As much as we might want to dismiss the idea of Sundance moving to the Midwest, Cincinnati has made significant investments in its arts scene, and it’s clear they are eager to elevate their film profile.

Still, Sundance belongs in Utah. It’s a part of the state’s cultural DNA, and while the landscape of indie film is always evolving, keeping Sundance here feels essential for the continuation of Utah’s unique filmmaking spirit. For those of us who call Utah home, we’re not just rooting for the festival to stay; we’re ready to see it grow and thrive in the place where it all began.