Kids Free Days at the Nutcracker
Kids Free Days offer free admission for children 17 and under to self-guided tours of 'Nutcracker in the Castle' with a paid adult. Festive treats are available, and a Toys for Tots donation drive is held.
What to Expect
Free Nutcracker tours for kids with paid adult
Event Details
Duration
6 hours per day
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Paine Art Center and Gardens
Food & Drink
Cupcake and hot cocoa available at Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive, enchanting, charitable
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $18 Adult – Get tickets
- Pets: Service animals welcome
Tips & Advice
- Make reservations for the 'Nutcracker in the Castle' tours in advance, as they are required and become available starting October 6th.
- Consider visiting the Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café after your tour for a special treat; no reservations are needed for the café.
- Paine Members enjoy free admission to the 'Nutcracker in the Castle' tours and often get early access to reservations.
- Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots donation drive, which will be collected under the giant Christmas tree.
- Adult admission is $18, and the offer allows up to five free children per paid adult.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free admission for children ages 17 and under with a paid adult.
- Donations collected for Toys for Tots.
- Paine Members receive free admission and early access to reservations.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Nutcracker in the Castle' exhibition?
It is a special exhibition inspired by the classic 'Nutcracker' story, featuring themed decorations and displays that visitors can explore on self-guided tours.
Are reservations required for the Kids Free Days?
Yes, reservations are required for the self-guided tours during the Kids Free Days. Reservations become available starting October 6th.
What are the operating hours for the Kids Free Days?
The tours are available from November 20-25, 2026, between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM daily.
What are the hours for the Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café?
The Cupcake Café has specific hours: Nov. 20 from 5:00 PM–8:00 PM, Nov. 21-22 from 11:00 AM–8:00 PM, and Nov. 23-25 from 5:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Can I bring my pet?
While pets are not allowed, service animals are welcome at the Paine Art Center and Gardens.
More Christmas Events near Oshkosh
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.