Illustration of a holiday show scene (The Nutcracker)
Christmas Shows

The Nutcracker

Audiences experience a cherished annual production of the world-famous holiday ballet set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score. The performance features special guest artists, more than 100 area dancers, and a live orchestra. Guests follow Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on an enchanting journey under Drosselmeyer's spell.

What to Expect

Holiday ballet featuring a live orchestra and over 100 area dancers.

Event Details

Ages

All attendees must have a ticket; no persons under two years old allowed if unable to remain quiet, attentive, and seated.

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Franklin Performing Arts Company

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and ballet fans

Vibe

Festive and enchanting

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Low

Weather Sensitivity

None

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: Saturday, December 5: 7:30pm performance; no other performance times are stated.

Tips & Advice

  • Enter the Arts Access Ticket Lottery through the event page’s Google form for a chance at one of eight half-price seats to the Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. show.
  • Watch for lottery results on Monday, November 23, when winners are contacted, so you know whether you secured a discounted ticket.
  • Eligible EBT/SUN Bucks, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders can redeem 50% Card to Culture discounts at least one week ahead; limits and ticketing fees apply.
  • Buy a ticket for every attendee, including children, because lap sitting isn’t permitted and all guests must have tickets.
  • Keep cameras, video devices, audio recorders, and flash photography put away unless approved; turn off phones before the performance begins.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Arts Access Ticket Lottery: 8 half-price tickets for the Saturday, December 5 evening performance; enter by Google form, and winners are contacted November 23.
  • Card to Culture: half-price tickets for EBT/SUN Bucks, WIC and ConnectorCare cardholders, limit 2 per cardholder and 10 seats per production.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Nutcracker good for kids?

Yes. It's meant for audiences young and old. Every attendee needs their own ticket because lap sitting isn't allowed. Children under two are only allowed if they can stay quiet and seated.

What makes this production special?

FPAC Holiday Productions stages it with a live orchestra, special guest artists and more than 100 area dancers, all set to Tchaikovsky's score. It has been a Franklin holiday tradition for more than 25 years.

Are there discounted tickets?

Yes. EBT/SUN Bucks, WIC and ConnectorCare cardholders get half off FPAC holiday productions through Card to Culture, with a limit of 2 tickets per cardholder. There is also a lottery for half-price seats at the Saturday evening performance.

How does the Card to Culture discount work?

Redeem it at least a week ahead. Either use the code CARD2CULTURE online and email a copy of your card, or bring your card to the FPAC main office at 38 Main Street. Only 10 discounted seats are available per production.

How can I get involved with the show?

FPAC holds Holiday Production auditions and also takes volunteers.

Tags

ballettheaterfamily friendlyholiday traditionlive musicseasonal activitiesThe NutcrackerChristmas showfestive entertainment

Featured Video

More Christmas Events Near Franklin

More Christmas Events near Franklin

Open the map around Franklin →

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team