Illustration of a nutcracker ballet scene (Ballet Theatre of Scranton's 51st Annual Nutcracker)
Christmas Shows

Ballet Theatre of Scranton's 51st Annual Nutcracker

Audiences experience a full-scale holiday ballet production presented by the Ballet Theatre of Scranton under the direction of Artistic Director Joanne Arduino. The staging features more than 100 dancers performing alongside guest professional artists. The show includes elaborate sets, intricate costumes, and dazzling special effects.

What to Expect

The only Nutcracker production in the United States presented entirely free.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Ballet Theatre of Scranton

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and ballet fans

Vibe

Festive and theatrical

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

None

Location

The Theater at North
1539 N Main Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
Scranton, PA
18508

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: The production is free of charge to attendees. – Get tickets
  • Hours: Friday, November 27: Noon matinee and 5:30pm evening performance; Saturday, November 28: Noon matinee; Sunday, November 29: Noon matinee.
  • Accessibility: A sensory-friendly performance is held on November 22.

Tips & Advice

  • Get to the Theater at North box office early, because free tickets are handed out starting two hours before each show and seats are first-come, first-served.
  • Pick up tickets for the exact performance you plan to see, because the box office gives them out for that specific show only.
  • Choose the November 22 sensory-friendly performance if loud sound or crowds are hard for someone in your group.
  • Plan on a matinee if you're going Saturday or Sunday, because Friday is the only day with an evening performance.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Sensory-friendly Nutcracker performance on November 22.
  • Educational performances for school students on November 23, for schools only.
  • Ballet Theatre of Scranton's Senior Company marches as wooden soldiers, with elves, in the Scranton Santa Parade on November 21.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get tickets?

Tickets are a free gift to the community. Pick them up at the Theater at North box office two hours before the performance you want. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Is there a sensory-friendly performance?

Yes. A sensory-friendly Nutcracker performance is held at the Theater at North on November 22.

Who performs in the show?

More than 100 dancers perform alongside guest professional artists, under the direction of Artistic Director Joanne Arduino.

Can schools bring students?

Yes. Educational performances for school students are held on Monday, November 23. They are for schools only and closed to the public.

How can I help keep the show free?

The production is paid for by grants and fundraising. You can volunteer or donate through Ballet Theatre of Scranton, which is also building an endowment fund to keep the tradition going.

Tags

The Nutcrackerballetholiday traditionfamily friendlyfree eventtheaterclassical musiccommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesfestive entertainment

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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