By: Sarah Morton
As the Sundance Film Festival returns to Park City, it’s not just the films taking center stage. The festival also boasts an extraordinary lineup of panels, parties, and events that bring together filmmakers, artists, and tastemakers for unforgettable experiences. From star-studded discussions to indulgent wine tastings and exclusive screenings, Sundance 2025 offers countless opportunities to connect with the heart of cinema and culture. Here’s a breakdown of this year’s must-attend events:
The Elvis Suite: An Exclusive Film Lovers’ Retreat
Firewood on Main Street, 306 Main St., Park City, UT 84060 – January 23-27, 2025
Film critic Elvis Mitchell partners with Darling&Co. to host The Elvis Suite, an invitation-only space for in-depth conversations with leading industry voices. The opening night celebration on January 23 will spotlight Jimpa, starring Olivia Colman and John Lithgow.
Other highlights include Colman and Lithgow sharing insights on January 24 at 10:15 AM, followed by Cynthia Erivo (1:30 PM) and Sarah Jessica Parker with The Librarians team (4:30 PM). January 25 brings appearances by Rose Byrne (9:30 AM), Questlove (1:00 PM), and Ryan Coogler (3:00 PM). That evening, Spotlight On Tomorrow, a panel launching Walker’s Rising Stars National Scholarship Program, will feature Kimberly Cole, Rachel Fleit, and Jimmy Akingbola in a conversation moderated by Deadline’s Dominic Patten (6:00 PM).
Other key sessions include Benedict Cumberbatch and Dylan Southern discussing The Thing with Feathers (Jan. 26, 12:00 PM) and closing day talks with Eugene Hernandez and Kim Yutani (Jan. 27, 1:30 PM) and Quentin Tarantino (5:00 PM).
Sommsation Wine Lounge: Sip and Savor the Festival
Jackson’s Hideaway Ski Lounge, 900 Main Street, Park City, UT – January 24-27, 2025
Sommsation returns to Park City for its third year, transforming Jackson’s Hideaway Ski Lounge into a haven for wine lovers. Opening January 24, the schedule includes VIP tastings (12:00 PM), the Art of Pairing (7:00 PM), and Wines & Vibes with DJ Joune (9:30 PM).
On January 25, all-day tastings begin at 11:00 AM, while January 26 features a premium wine experience with reserve tastings and live chef demonstrations starting at 12:00 PM. That evening, the Vines & Vinyl event (7:00 PM) pairs fine wines with an intimate DJ Joune performance. The lounge closes on January 27 with the PowerFlix Launch Party at 7:00 PM.
Indie Directors’ Lounge: A Celebration of Creativity
The Cabin, 427 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060 – January 24-26, 2025
Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment debuts the Indie Directors & Creators Lounge with the theme Cashmere and Chocolate, a three-day celebration of innovation and diversity. On January 24, Malone hosts a meet-and-greet (1:00 PM), followed by performances from DJ Spinderella and Jessica Betts (5:00 PM).
Day two features a discussion with Niecy Nash-Betts (1:00 PM) and a live set from DJ Pee Wee (Anderson .Paak) at 8:30 PM. The final day kicks off with the Salt Lake City Mass Choir (11:00 AM) and a stirring performance by gospel artist Mali Music at 12:30 PM.
SkillHouse World Premiere & After-Party: A New Era of Horror
The Music Lodge Treasure Mountain Inn, 255 Main Street, Park City, UT – January 24, 2025
The influencer-driven horror film SkillHouse, directed by Josh Stolberg, makes its debut on January 24. Produced by 50 Cent and GenTV in partnership with Group Black, the film stars McCarrie McCausland, Bryce Hall, Hannah Stocking, and Neil McDonough.
The premiere begins with media check-ins at 7:30 PM and red-carpet arrivals at 8:00 PM. Following the screening, the celebration moves to the Black Rock Mountain Resort for a glamorous after-party.
Special Screening: Pasta Negra Explores Resilience
Egyptian Theatre, 328 Main St., Park City, UT 84060 – January 24, 2025
Jorge Thielen Armand’s short film Pasta Negra makes its Sundance debut as part of Shorts Program 2. A powerful exploration of Venezuelan women’s sacrifices amidst the nation’s crisis, the screening is set for January 24 at 12:00 PM, following press check-ins at 10:30 AM.
After-Party: Serious People Steps Into the Spotlight
Private Location – January 27, 2025
The sci-fi feature Serious People, directed by Pasqual Gutierrez and Ben Mullinkosson, examines the complexities of identity and work-life boundaries. After its Sundance premiere, the filmmakers and guests will celebrate its debut at an exclusive after-party on January 27 at 10:00 PM.
With its dynamic mix of parties, panels, and cultural experiences, Sundance 2025 promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable gathering for film enthusiasts and creators alike.
Published by Zane L.