Illustration of a small stage with red curtains where two nutcracker soldiers and a dancer perform near a glowing fireplace (The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou)
Christmas Shows

The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre presents a holiday spectacular that has been a cherished local tradition for 35 years. Audiences experience the grandeur of the classic Nutcracker story, originally created over 200 years ago, brought to life with a unique Louisiana twist.

Dec 18 – Dec 20, 2026 All ages Ticket prices range from $25-$95.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

December 18 at 7:00 pm; December 19 at 2:00 & 6:00 pm; December 20 at 2:00 pm.

Location

River Center Theatre for Performing Arts · 240 St Louis St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and holiday ballet fans

Vibe

Festive and theatrical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets only through the ballet's own link or by calling the office, because scalpers sell seats on other ticketing sites.
  • Saturday, December 19 has both an afternoon and an evening show, which gives families the most choice if one performance fills up.
  • Book the Land of the Sweets Tea on November 29 for kids who want to meet Nutcracker characters, learn dances and make crafts before the show.
  • Adults wanting a night out can choose Night at the Nutcracker, a 21+ private performance with complimentary food and drink that also supports the production.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Land of the Sweets Tea on Sunday, November 29: a family fundraiser with tea, hot chocolate, sweets, prizes, dance lessons and crafts with Nutcracker characters.
  • Night at the Nutcracker on December 17: a 21+ fundraiser with a private performance and complimentary food and drink.
  • Season tickets cover The Nutcracker along with Lagniappe and the original ballet Mary Poppins and the Match-Man.

Links & Contact

Run by Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I buy tickets?

Only through Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre's own ticket link or by calling the ballet office. Scalpers sell on other ticketing sites, so steer clear of those.

What makes this Nutcracker different?

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre has given the 200-year-old story its own Louisiana twist. The production has been a Baton Rouge tradition for 35 years.

Is it a good pick for someone who has never seen The Nutcracker?

Yes. The company welcomes seasoned fans and newcomers alike to this holiday spectacular.

Is there a Nutcracker event for kids before the show?

Yes. The Land of the Sweets Tea is a family-friendly fundraiser on Sunday, November 29, with tea, hot chocolate, and sweets alongside Nutcracker characters. Kids can win prizes, learn dances, and make crafts.

Is there an adults-only option?

Night at the Nutcracker on December 17 is a 21+ fundraiser with a private performance of the ballet and complimentary food and drink.

Browse Christmas in Baton Rouge

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.

Contributors & Updates

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