This coming year, 2026, will mark the end of an era. For locals, it always starts with the saying: “PIBs are in town” People in Black, because most tourists, celebrities, and festivalgoers arrive dressed head-to-toe in black. Sundance is its own culture. From huge parties to late-night movies, from packed crowds to spontaneous moments of fun, the Sundance Film Festival has brought so much energy and excitement to this mountain town.
Having our kids grow up here, I remember each of them saying, “Drop me at Main Street, I want to see what celebrities are here this year.” For locals, it was always a mix of frustration and fascination: school parking spots ripped away for ten days, restaurants booked out months in advance, and Main Street Park City transformed into a buzzing movie-lover’s playground. Most of us stayed away from the madness, yet secretly loved catching a glimpse of it.
Sundance began in 1978 as the Utah/US Film Festival, founded by Sterling Van Wagenen, and later gained international fame under Robert Redford’s Sundance Institute. What started as a small showcase for independent filmmakers grew into the premiere festival for indie cinema. Careers were launched here such as Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh, and countless others had breakthrough films debut on this very stage. Legendary studios, streaming giants, and unforgettable moments all took root right here in Park City, Utah.
I personally don’t think Sundance outgrew Park City, but those decisions aren’t mine to make. Still, it’s hard to imagine winter here without it. The pandemic changed everything; when COVID pushed Sundance online, some of the magic slipped away. Gone were the shoulder-to-shoulder lines, the cold noses waiting for tickets, the thrill of sharing a theater with hundreds of strangers. My mother-in-law and her friend once camped out all night, like so many others, just to snag tickets to shows. That’s the kind of devotion Sundance inspired.
Sundance isn’t just a festival. It’s a culture, a vibe, and a ritual. They say something else will “replace Sundance,” but the truth is …..nothing ever really will. The films, the posters (my in-laws have 20 years’ worth framed on their walls), and the memories will live on forever.
So how do you “Sundance” this year, for the very last time?
1. Book Early.
This is going to be a wild year. It’s the last one, and you can bet they’ll go all out. Secure your festival passes and tickets as soon as possible. Get your guidebook, highlight your must-see films, and be ready when your number is called.2. Lock in Your Reservations.
Once your screening schedule is set, reserve everything else: dinners, après-ski spots, outdoor events, and VIP parties. Restaurants will be beyond packed, and the best experiences will sell out quickly.3. Plan Your Travel Smart.
Flights will be tight, so book early. Keep in mind that with the festival rush, early check-ins at vacation rentals are rare. Consider grabbing a later flight, or plan a stop for lunch in Salt Lake City before driving the breathtaking ride up Parley’s Canyon.4. Take Care of Your Stay.
Once you’re settled into your rental, communicate with your property manager. If you’ll be out late and busy all week, consider requesting daily cleans or at least a mid-week refresh, it makes a big difference when you’re living in Sundance mode.5. Collect the Memories.
This is your last chance. Buy the posters, snag the merch, and grab the photos. When Sundance is gone, it’s gone and these keepsakes will carry the stories forward.
Top Tips for First & Last Timers
Layer, Layer, Layer: Park City in January is no joke. Expect snow, wind, and single-digit temps. Bring boots that can handle slush, and a coat that works for standing in long lines outside.
Use the Shuttle System: Parking is impossible during Sundance. The free shuttle system is your best friend and it runs between Main Street, theaters, and most neighborhoods.
Don’t Overschedule: It’s tempting to book films back-to-back, but give yourself breathing room. Some of the best moments come from bumping into someone at a coffee shop or slipping into an unexpected screening.
Network Smart: If you’re here for business, bring plenty of cards and don’t underestimate casual connections. A lot of deals are made in line, not at the big after-parties.
Enjoy the Local Flavor: Don’t just stick to festival events. Sneak in some skiing at Deer Valley Resort or Park City Mountain, grab a burger at the No Name Saloon, or warm up with hot chocolate at Atticus.
Best Places to Spot Celebrities in Park City
Main Street Park City: From the Egyptian Theatre to the gift shops, Main Street is the heartbeat of Sundance. Celebs walk it, shop it, and often get caught in the same lines you do.
TAO Pop-Up & Festival Parties: Big-name events attract A-listers. Even if you can’t get inside, hanging out nearby ups your chances.
The St. Regis Deer Valley & Montage: Luxury hotels are magnets for big names. Even if you don’t stay there, grabbing a drink in the lounge is a solid move.
Coffee Shops: Riverhorse Provisions, Atticus Coffee, and Java Cow have all hosted surprise star sightings. Celebs need caffeine too!
Premiere Lines: If you’ve got premiere tickets, those lines are golden. You’ll often find actors, directors, and producers sneaking in last minute.
Travel Tips for Winter in Utah
Altitude Awareness: Park City sits at about 7,000 feet. Stay hydrated, take it easy on alcohol your first day, and pack electrolytes.
Snow Driving: If you’re renting a car, make sure it has 4WD or AWD and it is required on canyon roads in snowy conditions. Or better yet, use shuttles and rideshares.
Arrive Early, Stay Late: Airports are crazy during Sundance. If you can, arrive a day early or stay a day longer to avoid the rush.
Ski + Sundance Combo: Pair your screenings with ski days. Few things beat catching a world premiere at night after a bluebird ski day on the slopes.
Pack for Comfort: Beyond the glam, Sundance is long days and late nights. Bring comfy shoes and clothes you can layer under that chic coat.
Final Thought:
Sundance has been a defining part of Park City’s culture, a whirlwind of art, energy, and unforgettable winters. As we prepare to say goodbye in 2026, let’s do it right. Book early, embrace the chaos, soak it in, and make this last Sundance one for the history books.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during this final festival, PMI Mountain Collection is here to help. From ski-in/ski-out condos near Main Street Park City to luxury vacation homes in Deer Valley with hot tubs, fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain views, we make sure your Sundance trip is comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable.
👉 Check out our vacation rental options at www.pmimountaincollection.com and let us take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the last Sundance the way it’s meant to be done.
