PARK CITY, Utah – As the Sundance Film Festival prepares to leave Utah, local businesses and residents are reflecting on the impact of the decision and what the future holds for the city’s arts and tourism scene.
Jennifer Wesselhoff, President and CEO of Visit Park City, acknowledged the efforts made over the past year to address Sundance’s concerns about affordability and accessibility. While the festival’s exit is a significant change, she remains optimistic about Park City’s ability to adapt.
“The arts and film industry are deeply woven into our identity. This is an opportunity for us to reassess and reimagine how we continue to support the arts,” Wesselhoff said.
Sundance’s Economic Impact and What’s Next
The 2024 Sundance Film Festival attracted over 72,000 in-person attendees, including 24,200 visitors from outside of Utah, according to the festival’s latest economic impact report. It also contributed approximately $13.8 million in tax revenue to the state and local economy.
Despite the festival’s departure, Park City remains a thriving winter destination with its world-class ski resorts and outdoor recreation opportunities.
“Sundance takes place right in the heart of our ski season. While it will be an adjustment, we know that our slopes and amenities will continue to draw visitors,” Wesselhoff added.
Local Business Reactions
For businesses along Main Street, the festival’s departure brings mixed feelings.
Jenna Bryson, a longtime employee at Park City Jewelers, noted that while the festival brought in large crowds, it also led to significant congestion.
“Traffic was a nightmare. A drive that normally takes me 15 minutes could stretch to nearly two hours. Parking was always a struggle,” Bryson shared.
Others, like Shayla Maccffrey of Park City Deserts and Coffee, feel that the town’s economy won’t take a major hit, as tourists still flock to the area for spring break and ski season.
“The festival brought energy, but it wasn’t the only thing keeping businesses afloat. The ski season alone brings in plenty of visitors,” Maccffrey explained.
As a lifelong Park City resident, Maccffrey sees the transition as an opportunity for the town to reignite its artistic spirit.
“Park City has always had a creative vibe, but over the years, it’s lost some of that magic. This could be a chance to bring back the artistic side of the community,” she added.
Looking Ahead
Despite the festival’s departure, Park City leaders and residents believe that the town’s appeal as a world-class destination will remain strong.
“We have incredible ski resorts, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant arts community. Sundance leaving won’t change that,” Wesselhoff said.
As Park City prepares for this new chapter, many believe the town will find new ways to celebrate film and the arts, ensuring that its legacy as a creative and cultural hub continues to thrive .
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