PARK CITY, Utah — The Sundance Film Festival is set to make its final appearance in Park City from Thursday, January 22, through Sunday, February 1, 2026, transforming the picturesque mountain town into a bustling hub of film enthusiasts, celebrities, and international visitors. As the festival draws near, local residents are bracing for an influx of tourists and the accompanying challenges that come with hosting one of the largest independent film festivals in the world. With packed buses, road closures, and a pedestrian-only Main Street, preparation is crucial for residents looking to navigate this 11-day event smoothly. Park City Municipal has published its 2026 Sundance Community Guide, a detailed resource outlining essential information for residents regarding transportation, parking restrictions, street access, and public safety notices during this busy period. The guide serves as a vital tool for locals to stay informed and adapt to the many changes that occur during the festival. In an effort to facilitate communication, city officials are urging residents to sign up for real-time alerts by texting "FILMFEST" to 888-777. This alert system will provide timely updates on traffic conditions, transit changes, potential emergencies, and even weather impacts, ensuring that residents are equipped with the necessary information to make informed decisions during the festival. Additionally, locals can follow the city’s official social media accounts, @ParkCityGovt and @ParkCityTransit, for ongoing updates and announcements. Transportation during Sundance is a critical area of focus, as the Park City Transit system will operate from 6:40 a.m. to 2 a.m. with increased frequency to accommodate the surge of festival-goers. The city's free transit system is touted as the fastest and most reliable means of navigating Old Town, particularly since Main Street will be closed to vehicles during peak hours. To make the most of the transit options available, residents are encouraged to download the Transit App, which allows users to plan trips and track buses in real-time. For those commuting from surrounding areas, High Valley Transit provides additional service throughout the Wasatch Back. As part of the festival’s logistical planning, several street closures and access limits will be enforced from January 22 to February 1. Main Street will close to all vehicle traffic daily at 11 a.m. between Swede Alley and 7th Street during the festival's opening weekend, with Swede Alley and Hillside Avenue requiring a Residential Access Pass or ADA placard for access. Furthermore, Park Avenue will operate as one-way northbound, allowing only residential pass holders to travel southbound. Residents were provided with these access passes in late December, and those needing additional passes can reach out to the city’s Special Events Office. It's important to note that while these passes offer street access, they do not guarantee parking and remain valid year-round. Dining out during the festival can be a challenge, and locals are advised to make reservations at their favorite restaurants well in advance. Additionally, it is recommended that residents run errands early in the day, particularly if they require access to Old Town. For those needing to pick up mail, visiting the Main Street Post Office before 11 a.m. is advisable to avoid congestion caused by festival traffic. Parking will also be a significant concern during the festival, as public parking in Old Town will be either paid or permit-only. Many parking lots will be partially or fully closed for event operations, and overnight parking in public lots is prohibited due to winter maintenance, which occurs daily from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. Local residents who need a Park-and-Ride option can utilize the free parking available at Richardson Flat, with buses running every 15 minutes to Old Town. Additionally, limited evening parking will be available at Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Village lots outside of regular resort hours. Main Street employees with permits may access designated lots earlier in the day; however, restrictions will begin in late morning. To alleviate potential parking issues, city officials are encouraging residents to consider carpooling, utilizing public transit, and maintaining flexible schedules when possible. In terms of accessibility and community safety, ADA parking remains free for those with proper placards, and paratransit services are available to both residents and visitors. Park City officials are reminding locals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Park City Police. They also advise against cutting through residential neighborhoods during peak festival hours to minimize disturbances to local residents. While the Sundance Film Festival brings about temporary disruptions to daily life in Park City, city leaders emphasize that advance planning and clear communication can help mitigate these impacts. For complete details, including contact numbers and parking maps, residents are encouraged to review the full 2026 Sundance Community Guide available on the Park City Municipal website. As the festival approaches, being well-prepared can help ensure that both residents and visitors enjoy the unique experience that Sundance has to offer while minimizing inconvenience to the local community.