If you’re attending the Sundance Film Festival 2016 and are wondering whether there is any fun to be had once the screenings, panels and premieres have ended each day, you’ve come to the right place. There’s something for everyone; whether you’re looking to wet your whistle and possibly rub elbows with industry insiders or dance into the wee hours, Park City has some of the hottest parties to warm up those cold Utah nights. If you’re lucky enough to score an invite to one of the exclusive hotspots below, be sure to keep an eye out for celebs. You’ll be sure to spot a few!
Tao
We think it’s safe to say that Sundance always opens with a bang and so do its parties! Looking to jump right into the Park City party scene? Check out the popular night spot, Tao, open for three days only during Sundance opening weekend (Jan. 22-24). Not sure where to find this highly sought after affair? It’s usually the place flocked by pretty party-goers looking for a good time. More specifically, the custom built lounge is located under Village at the Lift (more on that later!), at the bottom of Main Street. Once in, grab a cocktail and enjoy heart-thumping music brought to you by Brody Jenner, DJ Vice, Politik and more! You definitely don’t want to miss this three night pop-up, as Tao parties have seen the likes of Zoe Kravitz, Joe Manganiello, Rick Ross, and Paris Hilton. Definitely get there early (party starts at 11p.m.) because Tao is the second hottest ticket in town!
Bonus: If you’re a football fan, swing by Tao on January 24th to check out the NFL Championship games. The space will be converted into the ultimate football viewing party venue!
KIA Supper Suite by The Church Key
Why is Tao the second hottest party ticket at Sundance? Only because the hottest ticket belongs to KIA Supper Suite by The Church Key, of course. Open from Friday, January 21st-Monday, January 25th, Kia Supper Suite by The Church Key will be held at Cicero’s on Main Street. KIA Supper Suite by The Church Key, brought to you by Kia Motors America and A-List Communications, boasts delicious food from Chef Steven Fretz of The Church Key in Los Angeles, and thirst quenching drinks thanks to Maestro Dobel Tequila and Johndrow Vineyards. What else makes this pop-up so special? Three Sundance premiere celebrations will be hosted here: ESPN’s mini-series “OJ: Made in America,” and Spike Lee’s documentary “Michael Jackson’s Journey from Motown to Off the Wall”. Also, what’s a party without some amazing celebrity eye candy! Johnny Depp, Adam Brody, Lily-Rose Depp, Justin Long and many more are set to pass through the suite for some good fun, food and drinks, so be sure to dress to impress!
Bonus: The Creative Coalition will host their ‘Spotlight Dinner” at the popular hub!
Stella Artois Filmmaker Lounge
Buzzing with confirmed celebrity appearances, Stella Artois Filmmaker Lounge is the place to be during Sundance ‘16. Open from Friday, January 22nd-Sunday, January 24th at the Base of Village at the Lift, this veteran Sundance lounge is ready to keep the drinks coming all day and all night…well at least until 2a.m. That’s plenty of time to mingle, spot AnnaLynne McCord, Logan Lerman and Nick Kroll socializing, and get warm with a signature cocktail before hitting other hotspots on this list. Don’t be afraid to get the best of all worlds this Sundance!
Bonus: Stella Artois Filmmaker Lounge is newly positioned next to other venues at the bottom of Main Street, making it easy to party hop!
Village at the Lift
Located at the bottom of Main Street, this Park City landmark is accustomed to being converted into a VIP party destination. In full swing for Sundance opening weekend, Village at the Lift is a relaxed, yet coveted hot spot that has yet to disappoint. Rumor has it IMDB, the Los Angeles Times and other media hubs will call Village at the Lift home during the Sundance Film Festival. But don’t think for a second that that will keep the celebs away! Big name stars like Jason Sudekis, James Franco, James Marsden and Adrien Grenier have been snapped walking around Village at the Lift and taking pictures with fans during previous Sundance festivals. You never know who you might see!
Bonus: Village at the Lift is known for giving out awesome swag bags and freebies!
Nylon and Dream Hotels present Apres Ski
If the location is withheld, it must be big, right? Only the who’s who of Sundance will get an invite to Nylon and Dream Hotels Apres Ski with Mel Debarge spinning all the favorites. This exclusive star-studded happy hour will take place on Saturday, January 23, from 4-6pm and is sure to be a great way to kick of this year’s festival. Past attendees include Kellen Lutz, James Franco and Paul Oakenfold. If this party is anything like last year,(live art by world renowned Brooklyn street artist AV ONE) you won’t want to miss it!
Bonus: Apres Ski in French means ‘after ski’, so it only seems right to check out the slopes before sliding into this social happy hour. You’ll definitely have something to talk about after (hopefully) mastering the slopes!
Which parties will you attend this Sundance Film Festival? Let us know below!
Written by Brittany Alexis
Yay!