Mar 4, 2025 - News

Here's what Utah is proposing to spend to keep the Sundance Film Festival

Kim Bojórquez

People stand in front of the Egyptian Theatre along Main Street during the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025 in Park City, Utah. — The Egyptian Theatre along Main Street during the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025 in Park City, Utah. Photo: David Becker/Getty Images

Utah lawmakers want to set aside $3.5 million to keep the Sundance Film Festival, according to their budget recommendations.

Why it matters: Organizers of the independent film festival are exploring a potential move to Boulder, Colorado or Cincinnati, Ohio starting in 2027.

Utah leaders are campaigning to keep it in Park City and Salt Lake City.

An announcement from Sundance is expected as early as March.

Between the lines: Gov. Spencer Cox initially requested $3 million for the festival in his proposed budget, calling it a "cornerstone of Utah's artistic landscape."

He told reporters in January it would be a "huge mistake" if the festival moved.

Follow the money: Out-of-state visitors spent $106.4 million during the 2024 festival, which drew over 72,000 in-person attendees, according to an economic impact report.

What we're watching: The 2026 festival, which could be Utah's last, is scheduled for Jan. 22–Feb. 1.

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Here's what Utah is proposing to spend to keep the Sundance Film Festival

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