Contrary to popular belief, the Sundance Film Festival was not started by Robert Redford (who played the Sundance Kid in William Goldman’s 1969 classic) but rather by a film graduate from Brigham Young University and Utah’s film commissioner back in 1978. Once called the Utah/US Film Festival, the title was revised in 1991 to recognise Redford’s Sundance Institute, a non-profit organisation for aspiring filmmakers. Over the years, the small Utah gathering has grown from a local showcase to a globally recognised indie film festival responsible for launching the careers of some of America’s best film talents. Point to note: Acclaimed filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino (Reservoir Dogs) and Kevin Smith (Clerks) both rose to fame after being discovered there. 

What to see: Famous for its Mormon community (they make up more than 50 per cent of the population), rehab centres (Lindsay Lohan attended one recently) and being a ‘dry’ state (you may only consume alcohol by the glass in restaurants if you order food, while liquor is only sold in state-owned stores and clubs – many of which happen to be in Park City), Utah was once a wealthy silver mining region in the 1860s. Walk down Park City’s Main Street and you’ll see century-old houses and saloons from that era, converted into restaurants, bars, boutique stores and art galleries; Artworks Park City (461 Main St, +1 435 649 4462) features colourful Judaica art and is a favourite among locals. Take a walk up to Short Line Road, where Chez Betty (1637 Short Line Rd, +1 435 649 8181) serves up tasty entrees like smoked salmon ravioli and wild mushroom crepes in a homey setting by a fireplace, flanked by earth-toned walls, old family photos and race car models. 

While other big film festivals such as Cannes and Venice are held during the spring and summer months, the Sundance Film Festival takes place in the winter, as per American director Sydney Pollack’s suggestion, to distinguish itself from the other festivals. So take advantage of the season and hit the slopes. With better powder than other places – thanks to the lighter, softer lake-effect snow from the Great Salt Lake – Park City is reputed as one of the best places to go skiing and snowboarding. Try the popular Homerun, a 3.5 mile (5.6km) trail to the base of the city’s eponymous mountain resort, also the longest run there. Aloha Ski Rentals (+1 877 222 7600, www.alohaskirentals.com) offers ski rental packages starting from US$18.70 (S$28) inclusive of skis, boots and poles. 

Where to stay: The Park Plaza Resort is located near the Sundance Film Festival headquarters of Park City Marriott, and is a good value for its spacious rooms and central location. Hotel facilities include an indoor pool, spa and sauna, ski storage, gas fireplaces and barbecues, and a minibus that ferries guests to nearby attractions, while the complimentary town bus stops right across the street from its premises. From US$185 (S$278) per night. 2060 Sidewinder Dr, Park City, Utah, United States (+1 866 757 5292, www.parkplazaresort.com) 
Sundance Film Festival: 17-27 Jan 2008. US$15 (S$23). Box office at corner of Heber Avenue & Swede Alley, Park City, Utah (+1 435 776 7878, www.sundance.org/festival).