Final Curtain on Sundance in Park City

Your Last Chance to Experience the Festival in Utah

For over 40 years, the Sundance Film Festival has gone hand-in-hand with Park City, Utah. Since 1981, Park City has hosted this event showcasing indie filmmakers set against the backdrop of the town’s snow-covered peaks. But change is on the horizon—beginning in 2027, Sundance will officially transition to its new home in Boulder, Colorado. That makes the 2026 festival all the more special, as it will be its final year in Park City.

With the recent passing of Robert Redford—the founder of the Sundance Institute whose vision helped launch this festival and nurture independent cinema—this closing chapter in Park City takes on a deeper significance.

If you’ve ever dreamed of attending to discover the next breakout filmmaker or to enjoy screenings with other film-enthusiasts, now is the time to make your plans. We’ve put together a complete guide to the final year of the festival, including what to do and where to stay. Read on to discover how to make the most of your trip before the final credits roll on Sundance in Park City.

Why Experience Sundance in Park City (While You Still Can)

Sundance isn’t just about the films—it’s also about the atmosphere. Our charming mountain town provides a picturesque setting for a festival centered around art, creativity, and connection. There’s something unique about seeing a film with others who truly appreciate the art as well as the artists themselves. The films’ directors and stars are often in the very same audience viewing the film right alongside you. Here’s part of what makes Sundance so special:

• Unique Festival Atmosphere: During Sundance, the whole town of Park City transforms. On its iconic Main Street, you’ll find a walkable gallery of pop-up lounges and indie art showcases.
• Mountain Culture Meets the Arts: The mountain location provides a combination of unforgettable outdoor and indoor experiences. You can ski fresh powder in the morning and attend a world premiere in the afternoon.
• Direct Access to Creators: You’re not just watching films—there’s panels, Q&As, and artist discussions to attend. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet filmmakers and actors and discuss their work.
• The Excitement of Discovery: Some of the world’s biggest independent films have launched at Sundance, like Little Miss Sunshine and Whiplash. You could have a front-row seat to the next award-winning film.

Sundance Festival Highlights & Things to Do

When you aren’t watching films or chatting with directors, you may want to check out the town. Park City is an exciting destination in its own right, and it gets even better during the festival. It’s the perfect place for a lively winter getaway, providing the perfect mix of mountain-town charm and upscale, luxury experiences. Here’s what we suggest you put at the top of your list during your stay:

• Explore Main Street: Main Street acts as the main hub of the festival. Explore the boutiques, start the day at a coffee house, or discuss your favorite films over a glass at one of the many wine lounges.
• Festival Panels: Learn more about the festival’s films directly from the artists who created them. There will be numerous panels and talks that dive into the behind-the-scenes details, including the storytelling and production insights.
• Hit the Slopes: Both Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort are just minutes away, so be sure to pack your ski gear if you want to get out on the slopes. The morning is the perfect time to get a few runs in before the festival activities start.
• Fine Dining: Indulge in the luxury lifestyle during your stay at Park City’s numerous fine dining establishments. You may even see a celebrity or two among the other patrons.
• Nightlife & Music: The city’s nightlife is taken to a new level during the festival. After the final showing, head out on the town to enjoy DJ sets, special events, and live music performances.

Where to Stay: SkyRun Vacation Rentals for Sundance

If you want your festival experience to feel like home, a private vacation rental will provide the cozy atmosphere you crave. SkyRun Park City offers a range of homes perfect for your Sundance stay, providing room to relax between screenings and plenty of space for all your film buff friends under one roof. Imagine being close enough to stroll right to Main Street and into the festival—that’s what we provide! We’ve handpicked some of our best homes near the festival to make your booking experience even easer:

• 1382 Empire Mountain Ski Home: 4 bedrooms | 4 baths | 14 guests
• 1687 Lakeside Getaway at Deer Valley! Free Deer Valley Skier Shuttle: 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 10 guests
• 33 Ski Village Loft 3BR: 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 8 guests
• 402 Chaparral Timber Escape! Relaxing Deer Valley Condo with Hot Tub! Close to Skiing Hiking: 3 bedroom | 3 baths | 8 guests
• Blackstone Beauty 1C: 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 5 guests
• King Road Luxury Lodge, Private Hottub, Game Room, Media Room 45: 4 bedrooms | 5 baths | 10 guests
• Old Town Luxe Retreat-Walk to Main. Hottub-Casita 173: 4 bedrooms | 5.5 baths | 10 guests
• SkyRun Old Town Charm-Spa-Walk to the Slopes! 207: 4 bedrooms | 4 baths | 8 guests

Make Your Plans Now 

As Sundance prepares for its next chapter, the curtain will close on its era in Park City. This means 2026 is your final chance to experience the festival in our charming mountain town. The films, the snow, the artists, the mountains—it won’t be quite like this again. Make sure you secure your stay and grab your festival tickets to its final act in Park City. In 2027, the spotlight shifts to Boulder!