Illustration of a toy stage with red curtains where two nutcrackers and a dancer perform for a small seated audience (The Nutcracker)
Christmas Shows

The Nutcracker

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

State Street Ballet presents a magical holiday tradition with 'The Nutcracker.' This enchanting production features dazzling costumes, stunning sets, and Tchaikovsky's timeless score, performed live by the Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra. An international cast of professional dancers joins over 100 young dancers from the State Street Ballet Academy for a captivating performance that is a favorite for audiences of all ages.

All ages $$

Plan Your Visit

Featured Performers

  • State Street Ballet
  • Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra

Location

The Granada Theatre · Santa Barbara, CA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, ballet enthusiasts, holiday celebrations

Vibe

Magical, festive, classic, enchanting

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (3/5)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure good seats, especially for weekend performances, as the venue can fill up quickly.
  • Consider purchasing a season subscription for potential savings and guaranteed access to popular performances.
  • Check the venue's website for specific parking information and public transportation options to plan your arrival.
  • Dress comfortably but consider a slightly more festive attire to match the holiday spirit of the performance.
  • Book tickets in advance, especially for popular showtimes, to ensure availability and potentially better seating.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Subscribe and Save 30%

Links & Contact

Run by State Street 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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the running time of The Nutcracker?

The running time for The Nutcracker typically includes intermissions, but it's best to check the specific performance details on the ticketing page for an exact duration.

Are there any age restrictions for attending The Nutcracker?

The Nutcracker is considered a family-friendly performance and is suitable for all ages. However, all attendees, regardless of age, require a ticket.

Can I purchase tickets at the venue?

While tickets may be available at the venue, it is highly recommended to purchase them in advance online to ensure availability and avoid disappointment, especially for popular dates.

Is there a dress code for The Nutcracker?

There is no strict dress code, but many attendees enjoy dressing up for the holiday occasion. Comfortable and festive attire is generally recommended.

Where can I find information about the State Street Ballet Academy dancers participating?

The State Street Ballet Academy dancers are a vital part of the production, showcasing the talent nurtured by the company's training programs. More information about the academy can be found on their dedicated website.

Browse Christmas in Santa Barbara

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

Last checked: