Robert Redford, who started the Sundance Film Festival, gets a lot of awards at the 2026 edition, which is the last one in Park City. There will be special screenings, a new Luminary Award, and celebrations of his impact on independent film at the event.
The festival in Park City, Utah, from January 22 to February 1, 2026, is the last one there before it moves to Boulder. It starts with “Celebrating Sundance: A Tribute to Founder Robert Redford” on January 23 at Grand Hyatt Deer Valley. The first Robert Redford Luminary Award is given to Ed Harris and Gyula Gazdag at this gala. They have been mentors at Sundance labs for decades. People who will be there include Sundance alumni, filmmakers like Chloé Zhao, Ed Harris, and Nia DaCosta, and Redford’s daughter Amy.
One of the best things about the archives is a restored screening of Redford’s first movie as a director, Downhill Racer, which starred Redford and Gene Hackman. The Park City Legacy program includes restored classics like Little Miss Sunshine, Mysterious Skin, House Party, and Humpday, as well as talks with people who have been to the festival before. These events show that Redford’s goal since starting the Sundance Institute in 1981 has been to support independent voices.
Redford, who died in September 2025 at the age of 89, changed Hollywood by supporting untold stories through the Sundance labs and the festival. His work started careers through screenwriting and directing programs that stressed independence over mainstream limits. The 2026 tributes will help his mission continue by giving bold storytellers around the world a bigger voice.
