Suppose you’ve ever dreamed of sipping cocoa next to a movie star or catching an award-winning film before the rest of the world. In that case, the Sundance Film Festival belongs at the top of your bucket list. Every January, the quiet ski town of Park City, Utah, transforms into a cinematic playground filled with red carpets, creative breakthroughs, exclusive lounges—and yes, plenty of A-list sightings.

Founded by Robert Redford in 1978, Sundance is the largest independent film festival in the United States. It showcases groundbreaking work from global filmmakers while attracting a who’s who of Hollywood. For film lovers, influencers, and first-timers, Sundance is more than a film festival—it’s an experience.

But planning your first Sundance can be overwhelming between the high altitude, the packed screening schedule, and the sea of black puffer jackets. That’s where this guide comes in.

Here’s your first-timer’s blueprint for conquering Sundance—from tickets and travel hacks to celebrity-spotting hotspots and credit card lounges.

When and Where Is Sundance?

The Sundance Film Festival typically occurs during the last two weeks of January. While screenings occur in Park City, Salt Lake City, and Sundance Mountain Resort, Park City is the festival’s epicenter. Most of the premieres, panels, brand lounges, and parties are concentrated along Main Street, turning it into a glamorous winter carnival.

In early 2024, Sundance made headlines by announcing it was exploring the possibility of moving the festival from Park City, Utah, to Colorado after 2026, citing concerns about long-term sustainability and infrastructure. While nothing is final, the potential move has sparked debate among loyal attendees and raised questions about how a new location could reshape the festival’s identity.

Why Go to Sundance?

Aside from being a global launchpad for indie films (think Whiplash, Get Out, and CODA), here’s why Sundance should be on your travel calendar:

• 🎬 Early access to buzzworthy films before they hit theaters or streamers.
• 🎤 Director Q&As and thought-provoking panels.
• 🧣 Brand lounges and gifting suites for networking and swag.
• ❄️ World-class skiing at Park City Mountain Resort.
• 🌟 Star-studded atmosphere—think casual encounters with Kristen Stewart at brunch or running into Steven Spielberg in a coffee shop.

How to Get Tickets (and Understand the Badge System)

🎟️ Types of Tickets and Passes

Sundance offers several ways to watch films:

• Festival Passes: Start at ~$750 for an Explorer Pass and go up to $4,000+ for VIP-level access. These are ideal for hardcore festivalgoers.
• Packages: The most popular option for first-timers. Packages often include 10–20 tickets and early selection access.
• Individual Tickets: Usually released in mid-January. Prices range from $25 to $30 per screening.
• Waitlist (aka eWaitlist): A real-time system for last-minute ticket releases. Many people see great films this way!

Planning your screening schedule at Sundance can feel like playing Tetris on expert mode. Films are shown in multiple locations at overlapping times, and some theaters are up to 40 minutes apart by shuttle. Prioritize 1–2 films per day with time buffers for travel, meals, and surprise opportunities, like meeting a director or stumbling into a lounge event. The Sundance mobile app is crucial for building and updating your itinerary on the fly. Additionally, be willing to include international features and documentaries, as these frequently turn out to be the festival’s best-kept secrets.

🛎️ Pro Tip for First-Timers:

Sign up for a free Sundance account in advance. Once ticket windows open, you’ll need to move quickly—popular screenings sell out in minutes.

Where to Stay: Book Early or Get Creative

Park City hotels and Airbnbs fill up fast and command premium prices during the festival. If you want walkable access to Main Street, book accommodations 4–6 months in advance.

If you’re booking late or on a budget, consider:

• Staying in Kimball Junction (20 minutes away)
• Booking a hotel in Salt Lake City and commuting (45 minutes by car)
• Splitting a house rental with friends or fellow film buffs

Pro Tip: If you’re an Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholder, check for luxury hotel deals through their travel portals—you may score perks like free breakfast or late checkout.

Getting Around: Shuttles, Ubers, and Snow Boots

🚐 Free Sundance Shuttles

Park City has a robust free shuttle system during the festival. It runs between theaters, Main Street, parking lots, and lodging areas. Download the MyStop Mobile app for real-time tracking.

🚖 Uber/Lyft

Reliable but expensive during peak hours. Surge pricing is standard.

🚶 On Foot

Main Street is walkable, but hilly and icy. Wear waterproof boots with good traction—trust me.

 Celebrity Spotting: Where the Stars Go

While red carpet events and Q&As are obvious places to spot celebs, many stars roam around like regular festivalgoers. Here’s where to keep your eyes peeled:

• Chimayo – Upscale Southwestern cuisine with big celebrity draw
• The St. Regis Deer Valley – A-listers love après-ski cocktails with views
• The IMDb Studio at Acura Festival Village
• TAO Park City Pop-Up Party – Invite-only, but the buzz radiates throughout Main Street
• Coffee shops like Atticus Coffee or Campos Coffee are low–key places where filmmakers take meetings

Keep it classy—most celebrities are there for work and appreciate respectful fans.

The Best Lounges and Credit Card Perks

Brand activations are a core part of the Sundance experience. You don’t need a press badge to enter many of these lounges—RSVP early or flash the right credit card.

💳 Credit Card Lounges at Sundance

• American Express Lounge – Past perks have included coffee, warm drinks, and charging stations. Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders often get VIP access.
• Chase Sapphire Lounge – If you have the Sapphire Preferred or Reserve, you might gain entry to curated events, snacks, and even private film chats.
• Capital One Café Pop-Ups – Previously hosted financial wellness chats with warm lattes and creative panel discussions.

🧤 Other Notable Lounges

• YouTube House – A hub for creators, hosts panels, and brand partnerships.
• Canon Creative Studio – Hands-on demos and panel discussions for filmmakers.
• Adobe Sundance Lounge – A tech meets storytelling vibe, with activities and free merch.

What to Wear: Park City Fashion 101

Sundance style is “mountain chic”—a curated mix of practicality and polish that keeps you warm while still turning heads. Expect to see fashion editors and film buffs wrapped in elevated winter staples.

Must-pack items:

• A long, black puffer coat (the unofficial festival uniform)
• Stylish snow boots (Sorel, Prada, Moon Boots—all make an appearance)
• Faux fur coats, collars, or vests for that cozy-glam look
• Fur or fleece-lined headbands to keep your ears warm while elevating your outfit
• Gloves, scarves, and warm base layers for sub-freezing temps
• A compact crossbody or belt bag to stay hands-free while standing in lines or walking icy streets

The goal? Stay warm, look effortlessly cool, and be lounge- and photo-op-ready at all times.

Must-See Events Beyond the Screenings

Even if you don’t land tickets to every film, you’ll still have plenty to experience:

• Panel Discussions – Covering topics from storytelling to activism.
• Music Café – Live performances from indie musicians and emerging stars.
• New Frontier Exhibits – Immersive VR and experimental storytelling installations.
• Pop-Up Dinners and Cocktail Hours – Keep an eye on brands like Stella Artois, Acura, and Variety for RSVP-required events.

Explore Park City Between Films: Walking Tours, Food, and History

While Sundance takes over Park City each January, the town is a destination worth exploring. One standout experience is the Park City Food Tour by Local Food Walking Tours, a guided stroll through historic Main Street with stops at local restaurants and hidden culinary gems. You’ll sample small plates, meet chefs, and learn the rich mining-era history that shaped the town. It’s a delicious and educational way to take in the local culture—and a great excuse to walk off all those lounge snacks.

Other off-screen ideas include visiting the Park City Museum and art galleries and, if you’re feeling adventurous, trying a moonlit snowshoe tour.

 Tips for First-Timers

✅ Download the Sundance app to track schedules and eWaitlist availability.

✅ Stay hydrated—high elevation and wine tastings can sneak up on you.

✅ Bring a portable charger—outlets are few and far between.

✅ Eat when you can—meal windows get short between screenings.

✅ RSVP early for lounges—space is limited and lines can be long.

✅ Use your credit card perks—Make use of your credit card benefits—booking assistance is available through concierge services.

✅ Plan for altitude sickness—consider altitude meds if you’re coming from sea level.

Final Thoughts: Is Sundance Worth It?

Absolutely. Of course. Whether you are an experienced traveler, an aspiring filmmaker, or a casual moviegoer, Sundance offers a unique fusion of luxury, art, and community.

With the proper planning (and a few credit card perks), your first Sundance can feel like a VIP experience—even without the VIP badge.

🧳 Quick Packing Checklist:

• ❄️ Heavy winter coat
• 🥾 Waterproof boots
• 📱 External battery pack
• 🧤 Gloves and beanie
• 💳 Amex/Chase card for lounge access
• 🕶️ Sunglasses (sun reflects on snow!)
• 🎟️ Printed schedule and ticket QR codes