With the Sundance Film Festival Boulder officially on the horizon,  I had the joy of volunteering at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City — and it turned out to be one of the most inspiring, heart-filling experiences I’ve ever had.

Seeing firsthand how the festival operates behind the scenes gave me valuable insight into what it takes to support filmmakers, sponsors, volunteers, and visitors alike. I’m excited to share my experience, bring those lessons back to Boulder and help create elevated, seamless experiences for everyone coming to our city.

A Sundance Volunteer Experience to Remember

After months of anticipation, my friend and colleague Merix and I arrived on Sunday, checked into our hotel just outside of town, and shuttled straight into the Volunteer Hub. Within minutes, we were welcomed with badges, complimentary film tickets, meal vouchers, a tote full of Sundance goodies, and the iconic reversible Kenneth Cole jacket. You could instantly feel it — that special Sundance energy.

By the time we arrived, many of the big branded activations and VIP parties from opening weekend were winding down, but Main Street was still buzzing with filmmakers, volunteers, and film lovers from all over the world.

Behind the Scenes at The Holiday Theatre

Monday through Wednesday, we worked afternoon shifts at The Holiday Theatre, one of the busiest venues at the festival. Our days were filled with scanning badges, counting guests with clickers, ushering patrons, and helping load and unload screenings every 30 to 45 minutes. It was fast-paced, organized, and incredibly fun.

Sundance truly runs like a well-oiled machine — which isn’t surprising after more than 40 years of experience. But what struck me most wasn’t the logistics. It was the people.

Volunteers of all ages return year after year. Some are in their twenties and have built lifelong friendships through the festival. Others are longtime film lovers who simply want to give back. Everyone shows up with kindness, humility, and a true spirit of service. It felt like being surrounded by thousands of Go-Givers.

There’s something powerful about watching people light up while helping someone find their seat, discover a new film, or experience a magical festival moment. The joy is contagious.

Experiencing Park City Like a Local

Of course, we also experienced Park City the best way we know how — like locals.

Between shifts, we tried everything we could get our hands on: ramen at Yuma Ramen, Indian comfort food at Mumbai House, cozy dinners at Aubergine, craft brews at Red Rock Junction, tacos at Tarahumara, and late-night bites at Bangkok Thai on Main. We also used our volunteer vouchers at Luna’s Kitchen and Cupbop.

I love exploring destinations this way — actually eating, walking, and experiencing a town instead of recommending places blindly. It’s how I’ve always approached travel and events.

Because when guests visit a destination, they deserve real recommendations from someone who has truly been there. That’s exactly how I show up for my clients in Boulder.

When Sundance comes to Colorado, Colorado Corporate Escapes will be ready to guide visitors on where to stay, where to eat, what to see, and how to experience the city like a local — not generic suggestions, but places we’ve personally tried, loved, and trust.

Preparing Boulder for a World-Class Festival Experience

Volunteer Appreciation Day was a highlight. We attended filmmaker panels, screened films like Half Nelson, and celebrated together like one big family. The organization, onboarding, and training from the Sundance team were exceptional — thoughtful, thorough, and seamless.

Seeing the behind-the-scenes operations gave me a whole new appreciation for what it takes to produce an experience at this level. And now, with Sundance coming to Boulder, I couldn’t be more excited.

Having experienced firsthand how Park City runs the festival so smoothly, I feel better prepared and equipped to support our local community. I’m excited to share what I learned, help train and guide teams, and contribute to creating an even more elevated experience for sponsors, vendors, filmmakers, patrons, and visitors alike. Colorado Corporate Escapes is ready for it all.

Grateful for the lessons, the friendships, and the love that fills this incredible community — and I can’t wait to bring that same magic home to Boulder. ~ Kayla

Planning a visit or event around the Sundance Film Festival Boulder? 

Colorado Corporate Escapes specializes in creating seamless, elevated experiences for teams and visitors alike. 

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