Every January, visual storytellers, filmmakers, actors, artists and audiences arrive in Utah seeking new voices and fresh perspectives. Since 1985, the Sundance Film Festival (Link: “Sundance Film Festival” to https://festival.sundance.org/) brings together fiction and nonfiction features and short films, series and episodic content, innovative storytelling, and performances, as well as conversations, and other engaging events.

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival (January 22 – February 1) is more than just a premiere event; it is the end of an era. As the festival prepares to relocate to Boulder, Colorado in 2027, this year serves as a "Park City Legacy" celebration—a final chance to experience the magic where it all began 45 years ago.

For those planning to attend this historic milestone, the key to a seamless festival experience lies in two things: a strategic itinerary and the perfect home base.

This year’s program is a heartfelt tribute to the Sundance Film Festival’s founder, Robert Redford, and a celebration of independent cinema. The 2026 program includes a start-studded and nostalgic lineup of 90 feature films and 50 shorts.

The Park City Legacy Program - Starting January 28, the festival premiers its dedicated “Legacy” schedule where audiences can take in archival screenings of iconic films that first premiered in Park City (think Little Miss Sunshine, Reservoir Dogs), followed by Q&A with alumni directors and actors.

Star-Studded Panels & “Beyond Film” - The 2026 “Power of Story” panels at The Marquis or the Egyptian Theater will feature industry greats including Olivia Wide, Richard Linklater, and Ava DuVernay.

January 14: Single-film tickets go on sale at 10:00 a.m. MT on the Sundance Film Festival website. (Link “Sundance Film Festival website” to: https://festival.sundance.org/tickets/online)

January 29 – February 1: The "At-Home" digital program allows you to stream competition films from the comfort of your rental.

To truly celebrate the Park City legacy, your accommodations should reflect the town's rugged elegance and historic charm. Powder Day Chalet (LINK) is a premier Old Town retreat that places you exactly where you need to be.

Your Own Private Cinema in the Heart of Old Town

While the Eccles Theater and The Egyptian Theater are the places to see and be seen, the crowds can be intense. Powder Day Chalet features a high-end private theater room that opens to a private wet bar. It’s the ultimate luxury for small groups who want to screen festival films or reminisce with friends over indie favorites in an intimate setting.

Walkability Meets Luxury

During Sundance, Main Street becomes a pedestrian-only hub. Staying at Powder Day Chalet places you within walking distance of the Main Street and the best "Beyond Film" lounges. You can bypass the legendary festival traffic and retreat to your rooftop hot tub to watch the sunset over the ski runs after a day of screenings.

Spacious Sophistication

With 7 plush bedrooms this home offers ample space to relax, refresh and connect with friends. Whether you’re hosting a post-premiere cocktail hour or a quiet apres by the modern fireplace, the open-concept gourmet kitchen and expansive living areas provide a spacious yet cozy atmosphere.

• The "Secret" Ski Days: While the film world is gathered at screenings and premiers,, the slopes at Deer Valley and Park City Mountain are famously empty. Plan a "ski morning" to take advantage of the best conditions and zero lift lines.
• Dining Reservations: Table space is at a premium during Sundance. Book early at institutions like Riverhorse on Main or try Matilda - a new wood-fired pizza restaurant also serving craft cocktails and small bites in Snow Creek Plaza.
• The Waitlist Secret: If a film is "Sold Out," don't despair. The e-waitlist on the Sundance app is incredibly effective. Join the digital queue two hours before showtime; local experts know that seats almost always open up.