The Nutcracker
Siblings Marie and Misha celebrate Christmas Eve at their country home before embarking on a magical adventure when their nutcracker doll springs to life. The children journey through enchanted lands, encountering playful animals from tiny mice to a rollerblading bear, and visit the realm of the Sugar Plum Fairy. The production features grand sets, elaborate costumes, and Tchaikovsky's classical music.
What to Expect
Choreographed by James Kudelka and set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score.
Event Details
Duration
2 hours with one intermission.
Ages
Recommended for ages 5+
Neighborhood
Entertainment District
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The National Ballet of Canada
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with school-age children and ballet fans
Vibe
Magical and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Tickets start at $72; detailed prices for each price zone are available at purchase. Standing Room tickets are $12, subject to availability and limited to two per person. They go on sale at 11:00 am on the performance day, or 9:00 am for the 11:00 am performances on December 24 and 31. Ticket prices include a $2.00 Creative Capital Fund fee, 13% HST, $4.50 for Capital Improvement Fund, and a $0.25 digital fee. – Get tickets
- Hours: Dec 5: 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm; Dec 6: 1:00 pm, 5:30 pm; Dec 8–11: 7:00 pm; Dec 12: 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm; Dec 13: 1:00 pm, 5:30 pm; Dec 15–16: 7:00 pm; Dec 17: 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm; Dec 18: 7:00 pm; Dec 19: 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm; Dec 20: 1:00 pm, 5:30 pm; Dec 22: 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm; Dec 23: 7:00 pm; Dec 24: 11:00 am, 3:30 pm; Dec 27: 1:00 pm, 5:30 pm; Dec 29: 1:00 pm, 5:30 pm; Dec 30: 1:00 pm; Dec 31: 11:00 am, 3:30 pm.
- Parking: Underground parking is available at the Four Seasons Centre for approximately 200 vehicles, with the entrance on York Street south of Queen Street West. Additional parking is nearby at the GREEN P lot under Nathan Phillips Square. A designated drop-off area is on the east side of University Avenue between Queen and Richmond Streets.
- Accessibility: Accessible seating assistance is available through the Audience and Donor Services team.
Tips & Advice
- Allow extra travel time in bad weather, because performances always go ahead and tickets missed due to weather, traffic or TTC closures can't be refunded.
- Arrive early if you're picking up at the Box Office, where you'll need photo ID and the credit card you paid with.
- Take the subway to Osgoode Station, which has a direct entrance into the Four Seasons Centre, or ride the 501 Queen streetcar, which stops outside.
- If you buy Standing Room, wear comfortable shoes and expect to stand the full two hours; patrons at least five feet tall see best.
- Keep your phone away until the curtain call, because photos and video aren't allowed during the performance but are allowed at the bows.
Special Events & Promotions
- The James Kudelka production returns in a 2026 revitalization.
- Standing Room tickets released on the day of each performance with promo code STAND, limit two per person; they go on sale earlier for the Dec. 24 and 31 morning shows.
- Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve performances on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Nutcracker suitable for young children?
Most children under five aren't ready for the ballet, and children under two aren't admitted. Every child needs a ticket and must sit beside the adult they came with.
Where should I park?
The Four Seasons Centre has an underground garage for about 200 cars, entered from York Street south of Queen Street West. The Green P lot under Nathan Phillips Square is a few steps away. The drop-off area is on the east side of University Avenue between Queen and Richmond Streets.
Will the show go ahead in a snowstorm?
Yes. Every performance goes ahead regardless of weather or traffic. Tickets not used because of bad weather, traffic delays or TTC closures can't be refunded or exchanged.
What happens if I arrive late?
Latecomers are seated only during a suitable break in the performance. Once the show is under way, you can't come back into the auditorium.
Are Standing Room tickets available?
Yes, subject to availability, with a limit of two per person. They go on sale the day of the performance online with promo code STAND, by phone, or at the Box Office. For the Dec. 24 and 31 morning shows they go on sale earlier. Collect them in person at the Box Office. Standing Room is not recommended for children.
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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.