Phoenix, Arizona · December 12–20, 2026

The Nutcracker in Phoenix

Nine performances across two weekends and two iconic downtown venues. Choose the date that brings the holiday magic closest to you.

View dates & tickets Discover the production

2026 performance schedule

Choose your Nutcracker experience.

Purchase through the official ticketing partner for your selected venue.

Weekend one · Center Stage

Herberger Theater

December 12–13, 2026

222 E. Monroe Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Saturday, December 122:00 PM Saturday, December 127:00 PM Sunday, December 131:00 PM Sunday, December 135:00 PM

Buy through Etix

Weekend two

Arizona Financial Theatre

December 18–20, 2026

400 W. Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Friday, December 187:00 PM Saturday, December 192:00 PM Saturday, December 197:00 PM Sunday, December 20 Family Special11:00 AMSunday, December 203:00 PM

Buy through Ticketmaster

The story

A journey on Christmas Eve.

Slawomir Wozniak’s production tells the magical story of young Clara and her enchanting journey. When her eccentric godfather gifts her a wooden Nutcracker, Clara is swept into an extraordinary adventure as the toy comes to life, battles the Mouse King, and leads her into a winter realm.

Guided by the Nutcracker Prince, Clara travels through a dazzling stage snowfall to the Kingdom of Flowers. Dancing mice, brilliant costumes, the audience-favorite Russian Dance, and the elegance of the Sugar Plum Fairy create a holiday tradition for the whole family.

Phoenix Ballet performs alongside dancers from Master Ballet Academy, bringing professional artists and rising talent together onstage.

Know before you go

Planning your family’s visit.

How long is the performance?

The performance runs approximately two hours, including a 15-minute intermission.

Is The Nutcracker family-friendly?

Yes. The Nutcracker is recommended for ages four and older. Review your ticket and venue policies before purchasing or attending.

Which performance should we choose?

Both weekends feature Phoenix Ballet's beloved production. Choose Herberger Theater for December 12–13 or Arizona Financial Theatre for December 18–20, including the Sunday morning Family Special.

Where should we buy tickets?

Use the official Etix link for Herberger Theater or Ticketmaster for Arizona Financial Theatre. Phoenix Ballet links directly to both official sellers.

When should we arrive?

Plan to arrive early enough for downtown parking, ticket scanning, and seating. Check your ticket and venue confirmation for current door times.

What will audiences see?

Clara's adventure includes the Mouse King, a stage snowfall, the Nutcracker Prince, the Russian Dance, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Kingdom of Flowers.

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