The Nutcracker
Houston Ballet presents its production of The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition featuring Tchaikovsky's score performed live. The performance includes choreography, stagecraft, and dancers portraying Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and other characters. Elaborate costumes and set designs depict the classic tale.
What to Expect
Houston Ballet's spectacular production of The Nutcracker
Event Details
Duration
Two and a half to three hours
Ages
Generally recommended for ages 2 and up; every guest requires a ticket.
Neighborhood
Downtown Houston
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Houston Ballet
Food & Drink
No outside food or beverage is allowed inside the Wortham Theater or the Margaret Alkek Williams Center for Dance.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, ballet enthusiasts, holiday celebrations
Vibe
Magical, festive, classic, elegant
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Theater District Parking (Smith St. and Prairie St., credit card only, $15), Lyric Centre Garage (Smith St., credit card only, event rate $15), Alley Theatre Garage (Louisiana and Smith, $12), One Market Square Garage (415 Milam or 898 Prairie, special Nutcracker reservation $9), Block 43 Parking Lot (Preston between Milam & Travis, cash & credit).
- Accessibility: Accessible seating is available in designated ADA areas online or by contacting the box office. Wheelchair accessible seating is available in the Brown Theater (Orchestra, Founder's Box, Grand Tier levels) and Cullen Theater (Orchestra, Mezzanine levels). Patron drop-off is available on Prairie Street. FM assistive headsets for the hearing impaired are available free of charge. Audio description services for visually impaired patrons are available with advance request (at least two weeks prior).
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least one hour before the performance, especially if picking up tickets at Will Call, to account for potential traffic and parking delays.
- Consider dressing in business casual or more formal attire, as many patrons dress up for the event, and the theater can be cool.
- For the best experience, request audio description services for visually impaired patrons at least two weeks in advance by calling the box office.
- If you need accessible seating or accommodations, purchase online in designated ADA areas or contact the box office directly for assistance.
- Check the performance information page or call the box office two weeks prior to the performance for the most accurate duration details, as ballets typically last 2.5 to 3 hours.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory-Friendly Performance available
- Mini Packages available for subscribers
- Group ticket discounts available
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When do tickets go on sale for Houston Ballet's 2026-2027 Season?
Single tickets for the 2026-2027 Season will be available starting in Mid-July, 2026. Tickets can be purchased online, in person at Houston Ballet's Box Office at the Wortham Theater Center, or by calling 713.227.2787.
Where are the ballet performances held?
Houston Ballet season performances are held at The Wortham Theater Center at 501 Texas Ave. Houston, TX 77002. Performances of My First Ballet or Summer Intensive Showcase are held at the Margaret Alkek Williams Center for Dance - Dance Lab at 601 Preston St. Houston, TX 77002.
What should I wear to a performance?
It is suggested that you wear business casual clothes or more formal attire to performances. The theater can sometimes get cold, especially in the orchestra level.
How long do the ballets last?
The time for each ballet varies, but usually between two and a half to three hours. Two weeks prior to the performance, you may check the performance information page under Season and Tickets for the production that you will attend to get more specific information on length of performance.
Can I take pictures inside the theater?
The use of photographic and recording equipment in the theater is strictly prohibited. Use of cellular telephones and paging devices during the performance are prohibited inside the theater.
More Christmas Events near Houston
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.