City of Atlanta submits bid, pledges $2 million to host Sundance Film Festival – WABE

The city of Atlanta has officially announced its support for moving the Sundance Film Festival to the “Hollywood South.”

On Monday, the City confirmed the submission of a call for tenders to host the prestigious festival starting in 2027.

Additionally, the City and its partners have committed to donating $2 million, as well as “a range of concessions and in-kind support for the festival,” according to a recent press release.

“We are honored that Atlanta is being considered as a potential host for the Sundance Film Festival in 2027 and beyond. Atlanta is where the worlds of film, entertainment, economic development, diversity and inclusion meet and grow cohesively,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. “We are ready to show the Sundance Institute that Atlanta is the place where opportunities are endless and Sundance can continue to shine.”

The press release also notes that Atlanta’s request for proposal highlights the various benefits the city can offer, including “diverse neighborhoods, status as a center of film production, cultural centers, event capabilities, engagement in favor of climate action, ease of transportation, the hospitality industry and an inclusive and equitable business environment.

The proposal was prepared by the city in collaboration with the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Atlanta is one of three Georgia cities, along with Savannah and Athens, vying to take over hosting duties for the festival, which is moving from its Park City, Utah, home after more than 40 years.

Sundance has become well known as a hub for premieres of films that have become part of the fabric of American cinema, including the Georgia-produced films “The Birth of a Nation”, “The Fundamentals of Compassion” and “Alice”.

The three Georgian cities are among 15 cities across the country that were expected to submit their proposals to the organization by June 21.

After reviewing potential sites, board members are expected to make a formal decision on the host city between the end of this year and the beginning of 2025.