The Nutcracker Ballet, a Cherished Christmas Tradition

The Nutcracker Ballet, a cherished Christmas tradition, captivates audiences with its enchanting story and stunning choreography. Set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this beloved ballet follows young Clara as she embarks on a magical adventure through a world of toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Performed annually by ballet companies around the globe, The Nutcracker celebrates the holiday season with its dazzling costumes, elaborate sets, and unforgettable music.

The Nutcracker Ballet, performed by various renowned ballet companies, is a beloved holiday classic that enchants audiences worldwide. Each troupe brings its unique interpretation and flair to this timeless tale. Whether performed by prestigious companies like the National Ballet of Canada, Ballet Jörgen du Canada, or local troupes, The Nutcracker remains a festive favourite, delighting audiences of all ages with its captivating story and festive spirit.

THE NUTCRACKER BY THE UNITED EUROPEAN BALLET COMPANY
November 18, 2026 | Main Theatre, Burlington Performing Arts Centre

Presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and performed by United European Ballet, The Nutcracker is a dazzling Broadway-style ballet celebrating a beloved holiday tradition. The production follows Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and their journey through battles and the magical Land of Sweets. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, it features expressive choreography, vibrant characters, hand-painted sets, and elegant European costumes. This family-friendly performance blends classical ballet with theatrical spectacle, inviting audiences of all ages to experience a festive story of imagination, wonder, and holiday magic.

BALLET JÖRGEN DU CANADA
November 25 – December 31, 2026 | Various Locations

Ballet Jörgen du Canada once again presents their very Canadian version of The Nutcracker, an enchanting holiday tradition that captures the magic of the season. Created by acclaimed choreographer and Artistic Director Bengt Jörgen to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music, The Nutcracker: A Canadian Tradition is a visual feast that features over 100 costumes and backdrops designed in collaboration with the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.

This is a beautiful Canadian work, and audiences are taken on Klara’s familiar, magical dream journey as she arrives in Canada and experiences winter landscapes filled with snowflakes, lumberjacks, Mounties, and creatures of the woods. Ballet Jörgen’s Nutcracker is destined to become a national treasure that will warm the hearts of young and old alike. It is a holiday tradition that has showcased the magic of the season for years.

Click here for locations and dates for this holiday season.

LES GRANDS BALLETS CANADIENS
November 26 – 29 and December 5 – 30, 2026 | Various Locations

Les Grands Ballets Canadiens’ The Nutcracker is a holiday classic, enchanting audiences with its breathtaking choreography and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Set in a magical winter wonderland, the production tells the story of Clara and her dreamlike journey to the Land of Sweets, filled with iconic characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince. The ballet showcases the company’s remarkable artistry and attention to detail, with exquisite costumes, whimsical sets, and graceful performances that create a cherished holiday tradition for families and ballet lovers alike.

• November 26 – 29, 2026: Southam Hall, Ottawa
• December 5 – 30, 2026: Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Montreal

CLASSICAL ARTS ENTERTAINMENT
November 28, 2026 | Living Arts Centre, Mississauga

Celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a magical ballet filled with wonder, imagination, and holiday enchantment for audiences of all ages. Presented by Classical Arts Entertainment, this acclaimed production features magnificent hand-painted scenery, more than 200 beautiful costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score brought to life through timeless choreography. Highlights include the “Waltz of the Snowflakes,” “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” and “Waltz of the Flowers.” Featuring exceptional dancers from 12 countries, this cherished holiday tradition delights families and ballet lovers alike. Please note: the Ukrainian Gopak replaces the Russian Dance.

LES PETITS BALLETS
December 4 – 5, 2026 | Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe

Les Petits Ballets presents a refreshed version of The Nutcracker in December 2026 at Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe. This family-friendly production showcases aspiring dancers performing alongside professionals in a beautifully staged classical ballet. With enchanting choreography, elegant costumes, detailed sets, and a timeless score, the performance brings the beloved holiday story to life. Audiences will follow Clara’s magical journey through a world of imagination, music, and wonder, making it an ideal seasonal experience for families and dance enthusiasts of all ages.

NATIONAL BALLET OF CANADA
December 5 – 31, 2026 | Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts

Experience the wonder of the holidays with James Kudelka’s The Nutcracker, a spectacular family production. The adventure begins at a Christmas Eve party in a 19th-century barn and introduces siblings Marie and Misha to delights beyond their wildest dreams, from magical creatures to savoury treats and the glittering land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score and featuring magnificent sets and costumes, The Nutcracker is an unforgettable tribute to the imagination.