The nonprofit behind the Sundance Film Festival has revealed the finalists in the competition to host the renowned event beginning in 2027. Among the six contenders, Park City and Salt Lake City’s joint bid stands out, along with bids from five other vibrant cities:
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Boulder, Colorado
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Park City/Salt Lake City, Utah
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Sundance Film Festival
The Sundance Film Festival, formerly known as the Utah/US Film Festival and then the US Film and Video Festival, is the largest independent film festival in the U.S., attracting 423,234 viewers in 2023. Organized by the Sundance Institute, it happens every January in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, and at Sundance Resort near Provo. The festival showcases new American and international independent films, including dramas, documentaries, features, and shorts. It includes competitive sections and out-of-competition categories like NEXT, New Frontier, and Sundance Kids. Many films that premiere at Sundance go on to win major awards, including Oscars.
The Vision Behind “Two Cities, One Experience”
Park City Mayor Nann Worel, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson released a statement expressing their commitment to a shared vision:
“We are committed to working in partnership on a new vision of ‘Two Cities, One Experience’ with a shared goal of reinvigorating the festival with an even greater tradition for storytelling over the next 40 years.”
Festival director Eugene Hernandez shared his enthusiasm with Axios Salt Lake City, stating, “Salt Lake and Park City are one of the bids that excites us.”
The Final Selection Process
Each finalist has been required to present detailed plans on how they would sustain and enhance the festival. The Sundance selection committee will now conduct site visits to further evaluate each city’s potential to host the festival.
Economic Impact and Historical Context
The Sundance Film Festival has had a significant economic impact on Utah. In 2023 alone, out-of-state visitors, who accounted for a quarter of the attendees, spent nearly $100 million during the festival, according to an economic impact report by Y2 Analytics.
Founded by Robert Redford over four decades ago, Sundance has become synonymous with Park City’s snow-capped mountains and swanky resort town vibe, helping launch the careers of filmmakers like Wes Anderson, Ava DuVernay, and Quentin Tarantino. However, the festival has faced challenges in Park City, including expensive and limited lodging options and transportation issues between venues.
Sundance Film Festival Tickets
Sundance film festival Early bird tickets avail here same last years price from July 23, 2024 to July 30, 2024.
The Future of Sundance
With Sundance’s contract with Park City set to expire after the 2026 festival, the exploration of new host cities began in April. Though the cities that didn’t make it to the final round weren’t disclosed, known bidders included San Francisco, Minneapolis, and Savannah, Georgia.
What to Expect Next
The decision on the 2027 site is expected by the end of this year or early 2026. The new host city will need to live up to the high expectations set by the festival’s storied history and significant economic contributions, all while addressing the logistical challenges that come with hosting such a prestigious event.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone go to the Sundance Film Festival?
Yes, anyone can attend the Sundance Film Festival by purchasing tickets.
What is the purpose of the Sundance Film Festival?
The purpose of the Sundance Film Festival is to showcase independent films and foster new voices in cinema.
Where is Sundance Film Festival every year?
The Sundance Film Festival is held annually in Park City, Utah.
Where is Sundance Film Festival 2024?
The Sundance Film Festival 2024 will take place in Park City, Utah.
Wrapping Up
Stay tuned for the official announcement as the Sundance Film Festival looks to its next chapter in a potentially new and exciting location.
