CINCINNATI, Ohio — Cincinnati will not be the next host city for the Sundance Film Festival, it has been announced.

“While Cincinnati was not selected to host the Sundance Film Festival, we are proud of how our city demonstrated its dynamic role within the film industry,” reads a statement from Kristen Schlotman, president/CEO of Film Cincinnati. “Our proposal focused on long-term sustainability, growth, equity, accessibility, and aimed to deliver a unique and elevated festival experience—all qualities that mirror the evolving priorities of film festivals worldwide.”

The city had been a finalist alongside Boulder, Colorado, and Salt Lake City/Park City, Utah.

In the end, the nonprofit Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees announced that the festival will take place in Boulder starting in 2027.

“This decision was informed by a detailed evaluation of the key components essential to creating our Festival. During the process, it became clear that Boulder is the ideal location in which to build our Festival’s future, marking a key strategic step in its natural evolution,” said Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair, in a press release. “We have a profound appreciation for the finalist cities and their communities — including Boulder, Colorado, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Salt Lake City, Utah — who presented overwhelmingly strong proposals and dedicated their time, passion, and commitment every step of the way. We have deep respect and gratitude to these communities for their hard work and partnership throughout the past year. Additionally, we sincerely value the steadfast support from our staff and board as we have ventured on this exploration together.” 

Schlotman’s statement continues, saying Cincinnati has established itself as a premier destination for filmmakers and storytellers.

“Our community has passionately united to support the filmmaking industry, both locally and internationally," the statement reads. "This journey has underscored the importance of creating innovative and sustainable spaces for the next generation of artists. Although the festival chose a more familiar setting, Cincinnati has proven we are ready to embrace what's new, and we are excited to lead what’s next in the film industry.”