Sundance Move From Utah Gains Traction

Utah’s hopes of keeping the Sundance Film Festival are in jeopardy, as political controversy threatens its bid. A bill banning the Pride flag in government buildings may push organizers to relocate. It would make a Sundance move from Utah increasingly likely. Boulder, Colorado, and Cincinnati are emerging as strong contenders, leaving the future of the festival uncertain.

Anti-Pride Flag Bill Sparks Backlash

The bill, passed by the Utah Senate in a 21-8 vote, bans the display of the LGBTQ+ Pride flag in public schools and state buildings. While supporters argue that it ensures “political neutrality,” critics call it a direct attack on inclusivity. This legislation could damage Utah’s reputation and increase the likelihood of a Sundance move from Utah to a more progressive location.

A Sundance insider expressed frustration, stating, “Utah is Utah, but this goes to the heart of the community Sundance has worked years to develop.” Many believe the bill contradicts the festival’s long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Utah Leaders Struggle to Keep the Festival

Governor Spencer Cox and Salt Lake City officials are working to retain the festival, offering a $3 million budget boost and proposing a move from Park City to Salt Lake City. However, the bill’s passage has slowed Utah’s momentum in the selection process. Some insiders believe this setback could seal the decision for a Sundance move from Utah to Boulder or Cincinnati.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall reinforced the city’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “We will never stop supporting our neighbors, including the LGBTQIA community. Sundance is an incredible partner in that support.”

Boulder Gains Momentum in the Bidding War

With Utah’s bid losing ground, Boulder, Colorado, has become a strong alternative. The city aligns with Sundance’s values, offering a welcoming environment free from the political controversies surrounding Utah. The anti-Pride flag bill has only intensified discussions about whether Sundance will move from Utah. Many believe Boulder is now the frontrunner.

A recent virtual meeting between Utah leaders and Sundance officials was meant to boost the state’s chances. However, sources say the passage of the bill has “slowed” Utah’s progress. A Sundance move from Utah is now more probable than before.

Economic Consequences of Losing Sundance

Losing Sundance would deal a significant financial blow to Utah. In 2024, the festival generated $132 million in economic impact. It has been creating thousands of jobs and contributing millions in tax revenue. If Sundance moves from Utah, local businesses and the hospitality industry in Salt Lake City and Park City will suffer major losses.

Unlike many struggling film festivals, Sundance continues to thrive. Its 2024 event outperformed the previous year, making it one of Utah’s most valuable cultural assets. A Sundance move from Utah would strip the state of its long-standing association with one of the world’s most influential film events.

Lawmakers Dismiss Concerns About Festival Relocation

Despite growing concerns, supporters of the anti-Pride flag bill remain confident that it will not impact Utah’s bid. Rep. Trevor Lee, one of the bill’s sponsors, dismissed the idea that the legislation could hurt Utah’s chances, saying, “Not at all.”

Lee has also voiced strong opposition to progressive movements, claiming the Pride and Black Lives Matter flags promote “Marxist” ideology. Critics argue that such rhetoric alienates organizations like Sundance. And it will increase the possibility of a Sundance move from Utah to a more accepting location.

Final Decision Expected Soon

Festival director Eugene Hernandez has confirmed that the decision on Sundance’s future home will be made by late March or early April. With Utah’s political controversies casting doubt on its bid, the likelihood of a Sundance move from Utah is growing.

If the festival leaves, it will mark the end of an era for Utah, which has hosted Sundance for over 40 years. The state’s political landscape may now determine whether it retains the event or loses it to a city that better aligns with the festival’s values.