Illustration of a sugar plum dancer on pointe beside a nutcracker soldier on a ballet stage (The Nutcracker)
Christmas Shows

The Nutcracker

Audiences experience the classic holiday tale performed by the dancers of Dance Alive National Ballet accompanied by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. The production follows Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a fantasy journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets.

Dec 18 – Dec 20, 2026 Family friendly

Plan Your Visit

Hours

7:30 PM on December 18 and 19; 2:00 PM on December 19 and 20, 2026.

Neighborhood

Gainesville

Accessibility

Dance Alive National Ballet will make reasonable modifications to policies and procedures to ensure people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy programs, services, and activities.

Location

Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts · 3201 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of ballet

Vibe

Festive and theatrical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Choose your seats when you buy tickets, because seating is reserved for every performance at the Phillips Center.
  • Seniors and students should ask for the reduced rate, which is cheaper than the standard ticket.
  • Young dancers can add Class with Clara on Saturday or Sunday, which needs its own ticket on top of the performance.
  • Families who prefer daytime outings can pick the Saturday or Sunday matinee instead of an evening show.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Class with Clara on December 19 and 20, sold as a separate ticket.
  • Reduced ticket price for seniors and students.

Links & Contact

Run by Dance Alive National Ballet

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 website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Nutcracker suitable for kids?

Yes. Dance Alive bills it as family friendly.

Is the music live?

Yes. The Ocala Symphony Orchestra plays live while the Dance Alive National Ballet dancers perform.

What is the story?

Clara and her Nutcracker Prince travel through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets.

Are seats assigned?

Yes. All seating is reserved.

Are there discounts for seniors and students?

Yes. Seniors and students get a reduced ticket price.

Browse Christmas in Gainesville

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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