Sundance Leaves Utah: A Farewell to Park City

This year marks the final Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, as the event prepares to relocate to Boulder, Colorado, in 2026. Many festival regulars express sadness and reluctance to follow the move, viewing the Utah festival as the "true form" of Sundance. They feel the festival's spirit is deeply rooted in its charming mountain hometown, a tradition established by Robert Redford over four decades ago.

Organizers cited the festival's growth beyond Park City's capacity and a desire to shift focus back to the films, away from an evolving air of exclusivity. While some volunteers and professionals express curiosity about the Boulder iteration, they voice concerns about Sundance losing its unique identity. Redford's daughter, Amy Redford, supports the transition, emphasizing that the Sundance Institute's crucial lab programs for screenwriters and directors will remain in Utah, preserving a key part of his legacy.

The move to Boulder represents a new chapter, intended to recapture the early spirit of discovery. However, the departure also raises questions about the future of independent storytelling in Utah and the enduring impact of Robert Redford's vision. Amy Redford assures that while Boulder will be a new adventure, the institute's core mission and connection to artists remain strong.