Sundance Storms Denver: Inside the Preview of Colorado’s Big Debut
Sundance Film Festival Comes to Colorado: Your Guide to the Exciting Preview Event
What’s All the Buzz About?
Imagine the biggest, coolest movie party in America packing its bags and moving to the foot of the Rocky Mountains. That’s exactly what’s happening! The famous Sundance Film Festival—which has been held in Park City, Utah for decades—is moving to Boulder, Colorado in 2027.
But you don’t have to wait that long to get a taste of the action. A special preview event is coming to Denver this September!
Important Point: This isn’t the actual festival yet—it’s a special "sneak peek" event featuring famous filmmakers who’ve been part of Sundance over the years.
Meet the Movie Stars Behind the Camera
The event "Mostly True Stories From the Sundance Film Festival" brings together an incredible lineup of filmmakers who’ve shaped the festival’s history:
- Amy Redford – Filmmaker and Sundance Institute board member (The Guitar, What Comes Around)
- Rian Johnson – Writer/Director of blockbusters like Knives Out, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and the indie hit Brick
- Dee Rees – Writer/Director of acclaimed films Mudbound and Pariah
- Christine Vachon – Producer behind Past Lives, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and many more
- And other surprise guests!
Why This Event Matters
According to Festival Director Eugene Hernandez: "The history of the Sundance Film Festival is really the history of the artists who’ve participated over the decades, the films they’ve debuted, the risks they’ve taken and the experiences they’ve shared with audiences."
This event will share "rarely heard" behind-the-scenes stories from past festivals—like getting a backstage pass to movie history!
Event Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | "Mostly True Stories From the Sundance Film Festival" |
| Date | September 8, 2025 |
| Location | University of Denver’s Newman Center for the Performing Arts |
| Ticket Prices | $29 for adults • $15 for students |
| Where to Buy | Online here |
The Big Move: Sundance Comes to Boulder
Mark your calendars for the main event! Colorado’s first official Sundance Film Festival is scheduled for:
January 21–31, 2026
Boulder, Colorado (at the foot of the Flatirons)
Festival passes and tickets info coming in September 2025
This 10-day celebration will bring:
- Hollywood icons and rising stars
- Tens of thousands of attendees
- World premieres of independent films
- Panels, parties, and movie magic against a mountain backdrop
How to Get Ready for the Sundance Experience
If you’re going to the September preview event:
- Buy tickets early – They’re available online now
- Arrive early – The Newman Center is a beautiful venue but parking can be tricky
- Bring your curiosity – Come ready to hear amazing stories from filmmaking legends
If you’re planning for the 2026 festival:
- Sign up for updates – Festival passes and ticket info drops in September
- Book accommodations early – Boulder will be very busy
- Start watching Sundance films – Check out past winners like Whiplash, Get Out, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and Past Lives
Quick Summary
TL;DR: The Sundance Film Festival is moving to Boulder in 2027, but you can get a preview on September 8, 2025 at DU’s Newman Center. Famous filmmakers like Rian Johnson (Knives Out) and Dee Rees (Mudbound) will share behind-the-scenes stories. Tickets are $29/$15. The actual Colorado festival runs Jan 21–31, 2026—more ticket info coming in September!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the actual Sundance Film Festival?
No! This is a special one-night preview event featuring filmmakers who’ve participated in Sundance over the years. The actual festival in Colorado happens January 21–31, 2026.
Who should go to the September 8th event?
Anyone who loves movies! Whether you’re a film student, aspiring filmmaker, or just enjoy great storytelling, hearing from legends like Rian Johnson and Christine Vachon is a rare opportunity.
Will tickets sell out?
Probably! With big names like the director of Knives Out and Star Wars: The Last Jedi appearing, these tickets will go fast. The venue holds about 1,000 people.
What’s the difference between this event and the 2026 festival?
The September event is one evening of stories and conversation. The 2026 festival is 10 full days of film screenings, panels, parties, and industry events across multiple venues in Boulder.
How can I stay updated on the 2026 festival?
Sign up for the Sundance Institute newsletter, follow their social media, or check the Denver Post for updates. Festival pass and ticket details will be announced in September 2025.
Excited for Sundance in Colorado? You’re not alone! The Flatirons are about to get their Hollywood close-up.