Listen … if you’re thinking about going to Sundance this year (or next year) because you’re dying to wear those cute boots you’ve got in the closet! Let me just stop you right there!
While binging Black movies, hanging with celebs, and going to all the parties can be fun … attending Sundance while Black … can also be a tad bit frustrating. So here’s your no-nonsense guide to attending, surviving, thriving, and keeping your edges intact while remaining Blackity Black at the Sundance Film Festival.
Attending (And Surviving) The Sundance Film Festival While Black
What to Expect at the Sundance Film Festival as a Black Attendee
The Vibe
Picture this: Park City, Utah—snow-capped mountains, artsy indie folks, and about five other Black people. Okay, I’m kidding! There may be six! I didn’t actually count! But seriously, the diversity is … lacking.
Especially in those theaters! Even for the Black films! I was honestly shocked AF! I sure as hell expected a whole lot more Black folks in the room. But whatevs!
If you’re GOING to the Sundance Film Festival in UTAH baby … you’re probably already used to standing out! And while standing out isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it may be something to mentally prepare for. Especially if you’re going alone. However, the energy is super chill! But exclusive chill, you know?
Like everyone’s too cool to fangirl over Colman Domingo—but I mean he literally walked right past me and I had to blink twice to make sure it was real.
The Layout
Get ready to walk baby. And not just from the car to the door. I mean, like, really walk. The venues are spread out all over town, and unless you’ve got a car (or the budget for constant Ubers–which is what I did because yes I’m bougie always, and every time I travel), you’ll be hoofing it or riding the shuttle. Oh, and that shuttle? It’ll make you question your life choices when you’re standing in subzero temps waiting for it.
The Weather
Speaking of subzero, Utah may be beautiful, but it’s cold. Like, disrespectfully cold. And I’m from New York!! So I’m used to cold. But baby!!! Do not—I repeat, do not—show up unprepared. I know you wanna be cute, but please! Layer yo’ ass up! Think puffer coats, snow boots, and gloves you can still use your phone with.
And don’t forget skincare!! Ashy ain’t cute in any time zone, but the Utah air will humble you real quick. I personally love the EOS lotions or the smell of a Hempz lotion, if I’m feeling a bit more bougie.
And I have to warn you — if you’re from the city, be prepared for the air difference!! Not only is it harsh on your skin, it’s also hard to breathe. So if you’re walking your normal pace, and wondering why the hell you’re out of breath, it’s not because you’re gaining weight eating good in Utah baby. It’s the altitude difference!!
Preparing and Planning to attend the Sundance Film Festival as a Black Attendee
Tickets and Passes
First things first: snagging tickets is like fighting for Beyonce concert seats. Be quick, have a game plan, and know your budget because those passes are not cheap. Pro tip? The virtual screenings are a godsend if you’re on a budget but still want to flex like you “attended” Sundance.
Yes, it’s a different experience attending virtually, but that’s nothing a little hotel room staycation and a laptop, can’t fix! I’ve attended film festivals at home and from a hotel, and I HAVE to say the peace and quiet of being at a hotel, is top-tier, if you can’t make it in person.
Travel and Lodging
Flying into Salt Lake City is your best bet. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Park City. So keep that in mind when planning your Ubers! As for lodging: stay as close to the action as you can. Trust me on this one.
It’s the difference between running into Megan Good at midnight because you stayed out late since your hotel is only a 15-minute ride away instead of going home early because you’re staying pretty far away and can’t take a quick nap in between films! And if you can, room with friends, or other Black attendees attending Sundance! Because if you’re not splitting those hotel costs, Sundance will eat your wallet alive! Whew! I had the pleasure of rooming with someone I met on Twitter a few years ago, and we’re still friends today!!
Budgeting
This ain’t a cheap trip, sis. Between tickets, food, and travel, your bank account is going to feel the burn, just as much as your face will from that wind chill. So pack snacks, pregame your coffee (Starbucks lines are chaos), and consider meal prepping if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen.
Also, do not forget to factor in transportation costs—you’ll thank me later. I don’t have a whole lot of photos of food, because I’m pretty sure I ate at all the events I attended. So please, make sure you eat where you’re at!! This is not the time to be shy about seconds. No one cares! Just don’t talk with your mouthful and you’ll be fine.
Navigating Sundance as a Black Woman and Finding Black Spaces
Finding Community
Here’s the tea: Sundance isn’t exactly Black AF. But there are spaces where you’ll feel seen! Keep an eye out for panels, meetups, and events highlighting Black creatives. And pay close attention to your emails! Anything from The Blackhouse, AAFCA, or MACRO Lounge is golden. And as always if you see another Black person, say hello. It’s super easy to make friends because everyone is looking to network, and talk with others!
But be open to talking to everyone around you! There are a lot of cool folks in the room, and they’re all looking to mingle, get feedback on their new projects, etc.
Safety and Comfort
Utah is beautiful, but it’s not always the most welcoming for us. You probably won’t face outright racism (hopefully), but microaggressions? Girl, they’re on the menu.
My advice? Keep your boundaries strong and your squad (if you have one) tighter. And if you FEEL like something is off, say something, to someone! Don’t ignore it, and shrug it off, in hopes that it’ll just go away. Things don’t change if we keep letting them get away with their bullshit.
Standing Out (In a Good Way)
Here’s the thing—you’re already going to stand out, so own it. Be bold, dress up, make connections, and don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong there. You deserve to be at Sundance just as much as anyone else, so network, shine, and snatch those opportunities.
Maximizing Your Festival Experience
Planning Your Schedule
If you’re the type to just wing it, good luck. Between screenings, panels, and parties, your schedule will fill up faster than a Black Friday cart. Download the Sundance app, plan ahead, and prioritize. And for goodness sake, please read your emails a week before the festival, not the day before!! Trust me, the FOMO is real if you don’t. I missed out on a whole damn Anderson .Paak concert, and I still haven’t forgiven myself for it years later!
Must-See Films and Events
Always check for films and panels that highlight Black voices. They’re there—you just have to google it or stalk the Sundance schedule via the app or online. And if you’re lucky enough to get into a panel, event, or party? Go. Even if you don’t drink, the networking is worth it!
Networking Tips
Keep it real. People can spot fake energy from a mile away. Don’t be afraid to slide into conversations, hand out cards, or follow up on social media. You never know who might help you with your next big move.
Unique Challenges and Solutions
Hair Care in the Cold
Listen, sis. The cold is not our friend. Pack all your haircare essentials—or just opt for a protective style, if that’s easier. Nobody has time for dry, brittle hair when they’re trying to make moves at Sundance.
Altitude Attitudes
Oh, and if your head feels fuzzy, or faint, you may need to slow down! That altitude difference is serious out there, and it sneaks up on you. Pack whatever you take to relieve headaches, just in case.
Inclusive Spaces
Finding inclusive spaces is like finding a unicorn in Utah. But don’t let that discourage you. Be intentional about where you spend your time and seek out events where diversity is celebrated.
Uber Wait Times
Booking an Uber, can be challenging, even if you’re only 15 minutes away! So be sure to plan your schedule well, and leave lots of wiggle room in between important events. I’d say leave 15-20 mins earlier than you think you should, and call your Uber 10 mins before you need to leave! Any time I thought I was leaving early, it took me an extra 10-15 mins just for Uber to find me a driver.
Celeb Sightings
You’re bound to see a celebrity or two at Sundance, it’s inevitable. They’re either hanging with friends or working to promote their films. I saw Colman Domingo at an event, “I’m A Virgo” creator Boots Riley at a panel, and ran into Meagan Good with some of the Harlem cast late at night.
And I almost walked right past Randall Park before I noticed him. My rule of thumb for hanging with celebs? Don’t bother them! They’re people too! A “hey, you’re awesome, and I loved you in whatever their latest work is”, will do just fine. Please leave the tears at home. Or at least wait until they’re not staring into your soul to cry!
Anxiety Acting Like A B*tch
Don’t worry, I have social anxiety too! And traveling alone made it a whole lot harder to want to show face, especially when it seems like everybody knows everybody! But don’t let that stop you from having a damn good time!! You’ll make friends while you’re out and about! So just give it time.
If you’re not sure if you should attend something, go for 10 mins, and feel out the vibe. Text a friend back home while you’re on your way, or walking around to catch a vibe, before you call it quits. I actually messaged someone I had never met before when I felt like staying home, and she told me to attend, and greeted me with open arms like we were long-time friends!
Last, but not least …
- Don’t forget to follow hashtags like #BlackAtSundance or #SundanceBlackCreatives.
- And no, it’s not creepy if you slide into the DMs of other Black attendees ahead of time—it’s actually a great way to build a little community before you arrive.
We both know going to Sundance as a Black woman isn’t just about watching films—it’s about showing up, standing out, and making space for yourself in a world that doesn’t always expect you to be there.
Is it extra work? Absolutely. But is it worth it? Hell yeah! So pack the warmest coat you’ve got, and maybe two more if you’re from a warm state, your business cards, and all the melanin magic you’ve got. Sundance may not be ready for you—but I promise you you’re ready for Sundance.
For more event tips, travel adventures, and reviews served with a dose of Black girl magic, follow me on Instagram @shayewyllie and TikTok (@shayewyllie). And if you’ve got any questions at all about Sundance, please drop them below! I’ll be sure to answer whatever I can.
You're welcome! I'm kind of excited to see what everyone else thinks.…