For many Toronto families, Christmas doesn’t start until they’ve seen The Nutcracker. The National Ballet of Canada’s production, choreographed by James Kudelka to Tchaikovsky’s score, has been a holiday tradition since it premiered in 1995. In 2026 the company brings back a revitalized version of the production for the whole month of December.
The Nutcracker 2026 at a glance
| Detail | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Dates | December 5 to 31, 2026 |
| Venue | Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen Street West |
| Company | The National Ballet of Canada |
| Choreography | James Kudelka |
| Music | Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, played live by the National Ballet Orchestra |
| Running time | About 2 hours, with one intermission |
| Tickets | From $72; standing room $12 |
| Official site | national.ballet.ca |
What makes this Nutcracker different
James Kudelka’s version moves the story to a Russian country estate and is packed with details that reward repeat visits: a horse that steals scenes, dancing bears, a cannon-firing battle and an enormous growing Christmas tree. Hundreds of young dancers from Canada’s National Ballet School and other schools appear in the children’s roles, which is a big part of the show’s appeal for local families.
For 2026, the company is presenting a revitalization of the production, refreshing the 30-year-old staging for a new generation.
Tickets
- Regular tickets start at $72. Prices rise for prime seats and the most popular dates, especially the weekends before Christmas.
- Standing room is $12 and is available for The Nutcracker. It’s a great deal for older kids and adults who don’t mind standing.
- Rush tickets don’t apply to The Nutcracker, so don’t count on last-minute discounts.
- Exchanges: all sales are final, but you can exchange tickets up to 24 hours before a performance for a $10 fee per ticket (free for subscribers).
Buy directly from the National Ballet of Canada or the Four Seasons Centre box office to avoid resale mark-ups. See our tips on avoiding fake holiday event tickets.
Is The Nutcracker good for kids?
Yes, for most kids five and older. The National Ballet says its performances generally aren’t suitable for children under five, and children under two aren’t admitted. Matinees are the most family-friendly option.
Tips for going with kids:
- Tell them the story first, or read a picture book version, so they can follow along without words.
- Book an aisle seat for easy exits.
- Arrive 30 minutes early to find seats, visit the washroom and look around the opera house.
- Dress up a little. It’s part of the fun, though there’s no formal dress code.
Getting there
The Four Seasons Centre is at Queen Street West and University Avenue.
- Subway: Osgoode Station (Line 1) has a direct connection to the building.
- Streetcar: the 501 Queen streetcar stops outside.
- Nearby: Nathan Phillips Square and the Cavalcade of Lights are a short walk east, perfect for a post-show stroll.
More holiday shows in Toronto
- Christmas shows in Toronto 2026
- Handel’s Messiah in Toronto
- Toronto Symphony holiday concerts
- Family holiday theatre in Toronto
Frequently asked questions
When is The Nutcracker in Toronto in 2026?
December 5 to 31, 2026, at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.
How much are Nutcracker tickets in Toronto?
Tickets start at $72, and standing room tickets are $12.
How long is The Nutcracker?
About two hours, including one intermission.
What age is The Nutcracker suitable for?
Most children five and older. Children under two aren’t admitted.
Plan more family outings with Christmas in Toronto with kids.
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