Sundance Is Moving to Boulder: Here’s What That Means for the City (and You)

Hey Boulder! 🌞

Roll out the red carpet, Boulder—Sundance is heading our way! Starting in 2027, the legendary Sundance Film Festival will officially call Boulder home, trading in Park City’s ski-town vibes for our iconic Flatirons, buzzing arts scene, and yes—abundant kombucha on tap.

The Sundance Institute picked Boulder over Salt Lake City and Cincinnati, citing our walkability, creative energy, and university town charm as major selling points. Picture it now: indie film premieres at Macky Auditorium, rooftop afterparties on Pearl Street, and filmmakers sipping lattes at Boxcar Coffee.

This move is more than just movie buzz—it’s a huge moment for Boulder’s small businesses, local creators, and anyone who’s ever daydreamed about bumping into a director mid-trail run.

Whether you’re a cinephile, curious local, or just here for the people-watching, we’ve got ideas to help you prep your inner film critic. Check out our guides to Boulder’s best hotels, restaurants, and hidden gems so you’ll be ready to roll when the stars arrive.

— The What’s Happenin’ Boulder Team 😉

🎬 Sundance Is Moving to Boulder: Here’s What That Means for the City (and You)

Sundance InstituteBoulder just snagged the indie film world’s biggest stage. That’s right: starting in 2027, the Sundance Film Festival—a cinematic powerhouse for four decades in Park City, Utah—is packing up its projectors and heading to our mountain town. And honestly? We were made for this.

Why Boulder?

In the words of the Sundance execs: it’s the “sense of place and space.” Translation? Our city has that rare combo of creative spirit, stunning natural beauty, and just enough quirk to keep things interesting. Boulder beat out Salt Lake City and Cincinnati for the honor, thanks to our walkable downtown, vibrant university community, and all-around good vibes.

From the Pearl Street Mall to the University of Colorado Boulder, venues will be scattered across town—meaning film fans might be lining up for a premiere at the Dairy Arts Center in the morning and grabbing cocktails at Japango by evening.

Sundance CEO Amanda Kelso put it perfectly:

Add to that: it’s also a town with incredible food, trails, patios, and people who don’t mind chatting about a film’s deeper meaning right after a sunrise hike.

What to Expect (and How to Prepare)

Think big. Boulder could see 70,000+ festivalgoers rolling through—so now’s the time to scope out your local faves before they get “discovered.” Here’s how to get ready:

🍽️ Plan Your Film Fest Food Tour

The stars will be hungry, and let’s be real, so will you. Start your list with:

• Best restaurants in Boulder

• Michelin-recommended spots

• Cozy brunch hangouts

🛏️ Book Your Stay (Before Everyone Else Does)

Locals are already eyeing Airbnb opportunities. Visiting friends and family? Send them our best hotels in Boulder list—and maybe claim the guest room for yourself.

🎥 Support Local Film Culture Now

Want to be ready for the Sundance rush? Hit up local festivals like the Boulder International Film Festival and support indie screenings at places like the Boedecker Theater and eTown.

🧭 Get to Know Boulder Like a Pro

Brush up on the best hikes, scenic day trips, and hidden gems—because once Sundance hits, the secret’s out.

🎥 Poll: How Do You Feel About Sundance Coming to Boulder?

The Sundance Film Festival is officially moving to Boulder in 2027. Big deal or big headache?

Hit reply and let us know your take — or just send us your best Robert Redford gif.

🎶 What’s Happenin’ Boulder Buzz 🎭

🌤️ Boulder Weather Outlook

Today (Mon, April 1) – ⛅ AM Clouds, PM Sun | High: 59°F | Low: 42°F | 💧12% chance of rain | 🌬 SE 12 mph | Start your week with some morning cloud cover—but the sun peeks out by afternoon. A great day for patio coffee or a lunch walk.

Tuesday, April 2 – 🌧 PM Showers | High: 50°F | Low: 35°F | 💧51% chance of rain | 🌬 W 13 mph | Keep your raincoat handy—showers are likely in the afternoon.

Wednesday, April 3 – 🌤 Partly Cloudy | High: 50°F | Low: 30°F | 💧8% chance of rain | 🌬 W 12 mph | A cool, crisp midweek day with sunshine in the mix.

🎟️ That’s a Wrap, Boulder!

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