This 2017 Sundance Film Festival, I was really lucky to have been able to attend. And since it was my first time, here are some of the things I learned and some possible tips and tricks to help you survive the upcoming festival.

1. PARK CITY, UTAH IS REALLY COLD!

Most of the people that I met while at the festival were from none other than my hometown of Los Angeles. And not one of them came truly prepared for the excruciating cold weather.

This was my first time is snow, PERIOD, and I now understand why people actually invest in snow gear.

If you have it, bring it. If not, buy it.

 

2. FESTIVAL IS ON MAIN STREET

This may sound like a “dumb” thing I learned. But maybe others who have not attended before actually comprehend the layout of the festival.

Everything takes place in a really beautiful (BUT COLD) street.

Main Street is filled with restaurants and studios taken over by companies like YouTube, IMDB, and more.

3. PARKING, TRAFFIC, AND HIGH PRICES, OH MY!

Because this is Park City’s yearly highlight, the prices are bound to soar.

The parking was roughly about $25, which isn’t terrible if you’re used to LA parking prices but still steep.

Because there are so many film fans and industry folks, there is A LOT of traffic. The streets surrounding Main Street were definitely not built for traffic.

Our hotel was five minutes away from Main Street and still the car ride to and from the hotel was roughly about 40 minutes. If it wasn’t so cold we would have been better off walking!

Uber was UBER EXPENSIVE. Of course they were charging a lot more than their usual plus an additional surge price. Again, our hotel was roughly 2-3 miles from our main Street and we paid roughly about $30 for each ride.

 

4. CELEB SPOTTING

One of the cool things about attending Sundance is that there are many celebs walking around SAME AS YOU.

So you might get lucky and spot one of your faves.

5. COVER PRICES

After about 7 pm, many restaurants will begin to charge a cover price. Even if you just want a bite to eat. That is because most will have musical entertainment.

 

6. RIDE SHARE BACK TO AIRPORT

Like I said, Uber was super expensive. According to the hotel reps at the Marriot, one gentleman paid $500 for a 40 minute ride to the airport. THAT’S INSANE.

Therefore, I suggest you look into a ride share program. Ask your hotel and they should be able to assist you and give you more detailed information.

I ended up only paying $55 for my ride, including tip.

 

7. ENERGY!

One of things about being in such cold weather is that it causes you to get more tired. I noticed that it was harder to keep up my energy level and many people found themselves more thirsty than usual.

So stay hydrated!