The Sundance Film Festival is preparing for one of the most significant moments in its more than four-decade history. Beginning January 21 to 31, 2027, the world-renowned celebration of independent filmmaking will officially call Boulder, Colorado, its new home, marking the start of an exciting era while remaining committed to championing bold storytelling and emerging artists.
In a message to filmmakers, audiences, and supporters, Sundance shared its vision for the Festival’s future, promising expanded programming, state-of-the-art venues, new awards opportunities, and a stronger connection with both the global film community and the people of Colorado. While the location is changing, the mission established by founder Robert Redford remains firmly intact: discovering groundbreaking independent voices and bringing them to audiences around the world.
A New Home for Independent Cinema
For the first time, Sundance will take place in Boulder, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor culture, and spirit of innovation.
Festival organizers describe Boulder as an ideal setting for independent filmmakers, offering a walkable downtown, historic theaters, modern screening venues, and a strong sense of community. Most festival locations are situated within a two-mile radius, making it easy for attendees to move between screenings, panel discussions, restaurants, and networking events.
The Festival Headquarters will be located at the historic Hotel Boulderado, while screenings and events will be spread across several iconic venues including Macky Auditorium, Roe Green Theatre, Boulder Theater, Chautauqua Auditorium, Dairy Arts Center, eTown Hall, Boulder High School, Casey Middle School, and the Cinemark Century, which will serve as the primary press and industry screening venue.
Key Dates for Sundance 2027
The 2027 Sundance Film Festival officially runs January 21 through January 31.
World Premieres will be showcased during the festival’s opening days, from January 21 through January 26, giving audiences the opportunity to experience brand-new feature films, documentaries, episodic projects, and other premieres before anyone else. Additional public screenings will continue throughout the remainder of the festival.
The annual Sundance Festival Gala, which raises funds for the Sundance Institute’s year-round artist programs, is scheduled for Friday, January 22.
For audiences unable to attend in person, Sundance will once again offer online at-home screenings from January 28 through January 31, featuring films from all five competition categories, including NEXT, along with selected titles from other festival sections. Accredited press and industry professionals will receive online access beginning January 27.
Bigger Festival, More Films
One of the biggest announcements surrounding the move to Boulder is the expansion of Sundance’s programming.
Beginning in 2027, each of the Festival’s four major competition sections, U.S. Dramatic, World Cinema Dramatic, U.S. Documentary, and World Cinema Documentary, will expand to 12 films each.
Other popular sections including Premieres, NEXT, Midnight, and Family Matinee will also grow, giving more filmmakers the opportunity to premiere their work before international audiences. Beyond screenings, Sundance’s Offscreen programming will introduce additional live podcasts, conversations, artist talks, and community events designed to encourage meaningful dialogue around filmmaking and culture.
The Return of New Frontier
After a two-year pause, Sundance’s acclaimed experimental program is returning under a new identity.
Now called New Frontier FLUX, the section will once again explore the intersection of cinematic storytelling, emerging technologies, immersive media, and interdisciplinary art.
Festival organizers describe the program as a response to today’s rapidly evolving “biodigital realities,” continuing Sundance’s long-standing tradition of supporting innovative creators who challenge the boundaries of storytelling. Boulder, with its culture of experimentation and creativity, provides what organizers see as the ideal environment for the program’s return.
New Recognition for International Filmmakers
Sundance is also expanding its awards program in meaningful ways.
For the first time, the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) will present awards recognizing the Best Debut Narrative in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition and Best Debut Documentary in the World Cinema Documentary Competition. These honors will be presented during the Festival Awards Ceremony on January 29.
In another significant development, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has designated Sundance as an Academy Awards-qualifying festival for winners of the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize in both documentary and dramatic competitions, providing those films with a direct pathway toward consideration in the Best International Feature Film category.
Planning Your Sundance Experience
Festival organizers are already preparing visitors for their first Sundance experience in Boulder.
Transportation throughout the city will rely on Boulder’s extensive network of walking paths, bike routes, scooters, e-bikes, and public transportation, with convenient regional bus connections to Denver and Denver International Airport. International visitors will also benefit from more than 30 direct international flights arriving at Denver International Airport during the festival period.
Boulder also offers hundreds of dining options ranging from casual cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants, while official lodging resources will help attendees find accommodations both within Boulder and surrounding communities. Festival passes and ticket packages will become available in October 2026, with single-film tickets going on sale in early January 2027. The complete Festival lineup is expected to be announced in December 2026.
A New Beginning Built on Sundance’s Legacy
Although Sundance is entering an exciting new chapter in Boulder, its core mission remains unchanged.
The Festival continues to serve as one of the world’s premier launchpads for independent filmmakers, introducing groundbreaking voices, supporting artists throughout the year, and connecting audiences with stories that challenge, inspire, and entertain.
With expanded programming, world-class venues, new awards, and a renewed commitment to innovation, the 2027 Sundance Film Festival promises to be one of the most ambitious editions in the organization’s history, proving that while the location may change, the spirit of independent cinema remains stronger than ever.
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