Sundance Festival Moves to Boulder, Colorado

After 45 years in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival is set to begin its operations in Boulder, Colorado. Paula Dupré Pesmen, an Oscar-nominated producer, has been appointed managing director of festival and institute operations, making her the highest-ranking official based in Boulder. The festival has selected 13 screening venues across the city, including facilities at the University of Colorado Boulder and several locations near the Pearl Street Mall.

Sundance is actively engaging with the Boulder community and its resources. Jeff Levine, head of audience development, has relocated to Boulder to foster outreach across Colorado, with a goal of drawing two-thirds of attendees from the state. Dana Bacardi is leading fundraising efforts to upgrade festival venues and equipment.

To address attendee concerns about lodging, Sundance is partnering with local establishments to offer rooms at negotiated rates. A lodging portal will open in waves starting April 21, featuring hotels such as the St Julien Hotel & Spa and Hotel Boulderado. Short-term rental options will also become available in May following the approval of new city ordinances.

The festival is also cultivating local support through events and partnerships. Screenings have been co-hosted with local organizations like the Boulder International Film Festival. Sundance aims to integrate into the Boulder community, building new relationships and ensuring a successful transition for its new home.