A New Era in Boulder
After 45 years in Park City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival is set to make its debut in Boulder, Colorado, from January 21-31, 2027. The shift marks a significant homecoming for the festival’s legacy, rooted in founder Robert Redford’s historical ties to the city. As the organization transitions to its new home, it has launched a major recruitment effort for more than 2,000 volunteer positions, ranging from media relations and ushering to venue operations.
The festival, which brought in $196 million in revenue to Park City last year, represents a major economic and cultural event for Boulder. Festival organizers are utilizing a two-square-mile area in the city center, with key events scheduled at the Chautauqua Auditorium, the Boulderado Hotel, and the Boulder Public Library.
Volunteer Recruitment and Logistics
Applications for the 2027 festival open on August 31, 2026. According to Brian Marquez, senior volunteer manager at Sundance, the high demand for roles requires a rigorous selection process. The festival plans to host a series of virtual information sessions throughout September to guide potential applicants. Volunteers contribute their time in exchange for access to screenings, festival gear, and meal vouchers.
Addressing the challenge of hosting tens of thousands of visitors, the city of Boulder implemented a new rental license in April 2026, which temporarily expands short-term lodging opportunities to include second homes and tenant-occupied properties. For volunteers, the festival is establishing a “Volunteer Village” in neighboring Longmont, utilizing clustered hotel blocks to foster community and provide housing for those traveling from out of state or abroad.
Creative Development Continues
Alongside operational preparations, the Sundance Institute continues its core mission of supporting independent creators. The Institute recently announced the ten fellows for its 2026 Episodic Intensive program, a virtual initiative focused on developing new television projects. These fellows, including writers like Christin Campbell and Daphne Di Cinto, are working on diverse narratives spanning sci-fi mysteries, historical dramas, and contemporary social thrillers, further cementing the Institute’s role in shaping the future of global storytelling.