Following a round of site visits, the Sundance Institute has named three locations as finalists for its possible move from Utah for the 2027 season. And the Salt Lake City/Park City proposal to stay in Utah made the list.
Utah’s united bid of “Two Cities, One Experience,” was named a finalist along with Boulder, Colorado, and Cincinnati, Ohio. Eliminated in the latest round were Atlanta, Georgia; Louisville, Kentucky; and Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The Sundance Institute announced earlier this year that it would consider alternate sites for the festival when its contract with Park City expires following the 2026 season. Sundance began its site selection process with a “request for interest” from possible candidates in the spring. The “request for proposals” phase for select locations was next, to which the Utah Host Committee responded in June.
With possible relocation set for the festival of 2027, the winner will be announced early next year following the 2025 gathering.
“As we move to the next phase in our search for a sustainable home for the Sundance Film Festival, we see great promise and potential in Boulder, Cincinnati, and Salt Lake/Park City,” said Eugene Hernandez, festival director and head of public programming of the finalists. “Each has shown us the blend of exciting possibilities, values and logistics needed to produce a vibrant, inviting and inclusive festival. We’re excited for a future Sundance that can discover, support and inspire artists and audiences for the next 40 years
“All three finalists were assessed on ethos and equity values, infrastructure and capabilities to host the festival, in addition to demonstrating ways in which they will continue to foster the diverse Sundance community and inspire the next generation of independent filmmakers,” the institute said in announcing the finalists. “The Sundance Institute will continue to focus on completing a fair and comprehensive review of the three finalists and will not be providing comments while the review process is taking place.”
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, Park City Mayor Nann Worel and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson issued a joint statement on the Utah bid being selected as a finalist.
“Salt Lake City, Park City and Salt Lake County are proud to unite in support of the Sundance Film Festival. Each step brings us closer, as a bid team in continuing our journey with Sundance,” the mayors said. “We are eager to forge an even stronger bond to inspire artists and elevate the festival experience. With our extensive event infrastructure, world-class venues, and warm hospitality, we’re ready to help Sundance shine on the global stage.”