Sundance is coming to Boulder in 2027, bringing filmmakers, movie lovers, industry professionals, and visitors from around the world to Colorado for one of the most celebrated events in independent film.
If this will be your first Sundance experience, a little planning can go a long way. From navigating screenings to enjoying everything Boulder has to offer between films, here are a few tips to help you make the most of Sundance 2027.
Plan Ahead, but Leave Room for the Unexpected
Once official Sundance programming and screening schedules are released, take some time to identify your must-see films and events. Popular screenings can fill quickly, so having a plan for your top choices will be helpful.
At the same time, part of the fun of a film festival is discovering something unexpected. Leave some flexibility in your schedule for a film you hadn't considered, a last-minute event, or simply an afternoon exploring Boulder.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Festival days can be busy, and getting from one screening or event to another may take longer than expected. Build extra time into your schedule for transportation, parking, lines, and getting settled before a screening begins.
If you're staying near downtown Boulder, walking or using local transportation whenever possible may make getting around easier. We've also put together a separate guide to getting around Sundance 2027 in Boulder, including transportation and parking tips.
Dress for Boulder in January
Colorado winter weather can change quickly. A sunny afternoon can turn into a cold evening, and temperatures can vary considerably throughout the day.
Layers will be your best friend. Bring a warm coat, comfortable shoes or boots, and winter accessories such as gloves and a hat. You'll likely spend time moving between indoor venues and the outdoors, so clothing that can easily adjust to changing temperatures will make your day much more comfortable.
And don't forget the Colorado sunshine. Sunglasses and sunscreen can still come in handy, even in January.
Make Reservations When You Can
Boulder's restaurants are already popular, and Sundance will bring even more visitors to town. If there's somewhere you especially want to eat, make a reservation as soon as you're able.
We've previously shared our guide to where to eat during Sundance 2027, which is a great place to start when planning meals around your screenings.
Another option is to eat outside traditional lunch and dinner hours. An early dinner or late lunch may give you more flexibility while keeping your festival schedule moving.
Explore Between Screenings
Sundance may be what brings you to Boulder, but don't spend your entire visit inside a theater.
Take a walk along Pearl Street, stop into a locally owned shop, grab coffee, enjoy one of Boulder's many restaurants, or simply take in the mountain views. If your schedule allows, give yourself a little time to experience the community beyond the festival venues.
Boulder has a personality all its own, and experiencing some of it between screenings is part of what will make Sundance here unique.
Choose Where You Stay Strategically
Where you stay can have a big impact on your festival experience. Consider how close you'll be to screenings, restaurants, transportation, and the other places you plan to visit.
Staying close to the areas where you'll spend most of your time may allow you to walk more and worry less about parking and transportation.
If you're still deciding where to stay, take a look at our guide to where to stay during Sundance 2027 in Boulder.
Don't Overschedule Yourself
It can be tempting to fill every available hour with screenings, events, meals, and activities. But a little breathing room can make the entire experience more enjoyable.
Give yourself time to linger after a great film, have a conversation over coffee, explore downtown, or simply take a break before the next event.
Some of the best festival memories aren't necessarily the things you planned months in advance.
Experience Sundance Like a Local
Sundance 2027 will introduce thousands of visitors to Boulder, but the things that make this community special are here all year long: incredible food, independent businesses, beautiful outdoor spaces, a vibrant arts community, and, of course, the Flatirons as the backdrop.
Whether you're coming to Boulder for your first Sundance or you're a longtime festival fan experiencing it in a brand-new home, we're excited to welcome you.
As Sundance 2027 gets closer, we'll continue sharing local guides, recommendations, and updates to help you plan your visit and experience the best of Boulder.
Janet Leap Team
A team for what's next.
