A Student Guide to the Sundance Film Festival
As the largest independent film festival in the United States, Sundance draws filmmakers, actors and fans to Utah every year. From Jan. 23 to Feb. 2, 2025, Park City will once again host this world-renowned celebration of independent storytelling, with screenings also available in Salt Lake City and online.
The festival highlights films ranging from full-length movies and documentaries to short films and experimental projects. A full list of films on the festival’s website: https://festival.sundance.org/program/films/
Tickets
Single film tickets will go on sale on Jan. 16, 2025 for $35 each. These tickets can be purchased as a scheduled in-person showing or for streaming online. Unfortunately, all the in-person package tickets are sold out this year.
After securing your ticket, you can begin planning your trip. The Sundance app provides maps, showtimes, and all the essential information for the festival. Remember, tickets do not come with assigned seating. To secure a prime spot, plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before the film begins.
Locations
Park City is the heart of Sundance. This is where most of the screenings, parties and other events take place. Be sure to dress warmly because it’s often 10 degrees colder in Park City than it is in Orem and SLC.
For those who are interested in a film with friends, consider going to a screening in SLC. The SLC theaters are a 20-minute walk from the Salt Lake Central Frontrunner station. It takes about an hour from the Orem Frontrunner station to SLC and it’s free with a UVU student ID.
Making the most of it
Sundance is an experience that brings together filmmakers, actors and fans. Be sure to talk to people in line and explore events like panel discussions, workshops and Q&A sessions with filmmakers. People from all over travel to Utah for Sundance and there is a certain magic to Sundance.
About the author
Jackson is an Integrated Studies student in Computer Science and Information Systems & Technology. When he is not at the computer, he will likely be found biking or running marathons. For more about Jackson, head on over to jaxlo.net.