Boulder, Colorado, has been selected as the new host city for the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027, a shift that promises to shine a spotlight on the state's thriving arts scene and provide a significant economic boost. The announcement, made public on the morning of March 27th, was followed by a press conference held at Boulder Theater, as reported by the City of Boulder. At the event, Governor Jared Polis, along with representatives from the Sundance Institute and various local officials, laid out the anticipated benefits, including job creation and enhanced economic activity for small businesses.
Excited beyond expression, Governor Polis stated at the conference, "Powerful films tell our stories; who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be." Looking forward to the festival's new chapter in Colorado, Polis highlighted the expected boon to jobs and small businesses, as per the City of Boulder. The process that culminated in the win for Boulder was supported by bipartisan efforts and numerous partners, including Visit Boulder, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, and the Boulder Chamber of Commerce.
According to Charlene Hoffman, CEO of Visit Boulder, Boulder's selection was a testament to the unity of a community that supports art and culture, as obtained by the City of Boulder, emphasizing the creative spirit of the city that they believe will make the Sundance Festival an even more remarkable event. Boulder's City Manager, Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde, noted the potential for the city to ensure that the festival will not only thrive but also deliver a top-notch experience for attendees.
While celebrating this win for the city of Boulder, Colorado Rep. Brianna Titone mentioned the festival's substantial economic impact, stating, "The 2024 festival generated $132 million in gross domestic product, created 1,730 jobs paying $69.7 million in wages, and attracted 24,000 out-of-state visitors who spent an average of $735 a day." Speaking to the potential for replicating such success, Titone's expectations for the 2027 festival in Boulder paint an optimistic picture for the region, as shared by the City of Boulder. Bipartisan backing is further underscored with the progress of the Tax Incentive for Film Festivals in the Colorado legislature, fostering a supportive environment for the creative industries.
