PARK CITY, Utah — In a heartfelt gesture that captures the essence of human emotion, Park City recently bid farewell to the Sundance Film Festival with an ode to Boulder, Colorado. This tribute came in the form of a poem crafted by the Park City Municipal Communications team, which was included in a welcome package for the Boulder delegation visiting during Sundance's final days in the city. The initiative not only highlights the strong ties between the two communities but also evokes a sense of nostalgia as Sundance prepares to relocate its annual festival. The poem, inspired by the famous quote from English poet William Wordsworth, "Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings," resonated deeply with Boulder’s visitors, who were in Park City to observe the festival. Clayton Scrivner, Park City's director of communications, explained the motivation behind the poetic farewell: "What does someone do when they're in their feelings? They write poetry; it’s a total natural human response." The heartfelt composition struck a chord with its audience, prompting Cris Jones, Boulder’s director of strategic partnerships, to share it with notable members of his delegation, including Boulder’s mayor, city manager, city attorney, and the executive director of the Museum of Boulder. "It struck the perfect balance of humor, affection, and earned confidence, and it felt very Park City," Jones remarked, noting the laughter and appreciation that followed its recitation. The poem's charm sparked conversations about possibly preserving it as part of Boulder’s local history, hinting at a future inclusion in the Carnegie Library for Local History or the Museum of Boulder. The visit, however, was not solely focused on poetic exchanges. For Boulder’s delegation, the trip carried substantial significance, particularly in light of Sundance's relocation, which has stirred mixed emotions within Park City. While many residents felt the loss keenly, the Boulder visitors experienced a blend of excitement, pride, curiosity, and “healthy nerves” as they prepared for the festival’s new chapter. Jones emphasized the importance of learning from Park City's extensive experience with Sundance, noting that the Boulder team closely observed various operational aspects such as crowd flow, transportation logistics, public safety coordination, and the integration of the festival into the daily life of residents and businesses. As part of their exploration, the delegation met with Park City's operations and public safety teams to gain insights into what it takes to host an event of Sundance's magnitude. Scrivner acknowledged the collaborative spirit of Park City's departments, which played a pivotal role in educating Boulder on the intricacies of festival management. The significance of this exchange is layered; while Park City may be losing a cherished event, the gesture of goodwill through poetry signifies a mutual respect and camaraderie between the two cities. The poetic sendoff serves as a reminder that Sundance's roots in Park City will remain a cherished part of its legacy, regardless of where the festival is held in the future. The relationship fostered through this exchange may pave the way for future collaborations between the two communities, ensuring that the spirit of Sundance continues to flourish. As the festival embarks on its new journey in Boulder, the poem crafted by Park City stands not only as a tribute to the past but also as a beacon of hope for future endeavors. It embodies the shared experiences and emotions that connect communities, showcasing that while change may be on the horizon, the memories and bonds forged during Sundance will linger on. In an era where cultural events play a crucial role in community identity, both Park City and Boulder are poised to carry the essence of Sundance into their respective futures, enriched by a shared history that will not be forgotten. In conclusion, as Park City waves goodbye to the Sundance Film Festival, the poetic farewell to Boulder serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of cultural events on community bonds. This heartfelt gesture underscores the importance of connection and collaboration, ensuring that the legacy of Sundance continues to resonate long after its departure from Park City.