Nutcracker Performances in Orange County (2024)
This list of The Nutcracker performances in Orange County is one that you’ll need to bookmark as you start scheduling your social calendar.
There’s tons of fun things to see, eat and do this Winter season and we’re happy to be rounding up as many Nutcracker performances as we could find for you.
This Orange County Nutcracker performances list is organized by city and noted where the entrance are FREE. Use it as a jumping off point to celebrate this holiday in Orange County and choose a few holiday events to attend.
Scroll down and let us know in the comments which one is your favorite!
p.s. If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Orange County this winter, check out our Orange County Winter events guide!
Orange County Nutcracker performances organized by city
Where to see the Nutcracker in Anaheim
Anaheim Ballet’s The Nutcracker | The Grove of Anaheim
November 29-30, 2024
The holiday season comes to life in Anaheim Ballets Nutcracker, the heartwarming tale of Clara and her Nutcracker Doll who changes her woeful winter into a fanciful feast in Candyland. The Nutcracker ballet is a cornerstone of seasonal family entertainment and tradition. Anaheim Ballets full-length Nutcracker with the Symphony Irvine is the production you and your family must see, a story presented with heart as only AB can present it, more than dance.
Tickets start at $54.65.
Where to see the Nutcracker in Costa Mesa
American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker | Segerstrom Hall
December 12-22, 2024
SoCal’s favorite holiday tradition returns with American Ballet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Created by one of today’s most celebrated choreographers, Alexei Ratmansky, this dazzling holiday treat features ABT’s roster of superstar dancers along with gorgeous sets and costumes by Tony winner Richard Hudson, and Pacific Symphony playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
Tickets start at $32.77
Nutcracker for Kids | Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
December 7, 2024
Visions of sugarplums will dance in your heads after seeing Tchaikovsky’s delightful Christmas ballet performed in a condensed version created just for kids! This favorite concert finishes with a visit from Santa and our annual holiday sing-along.
Tickets start at $75.71
Where to see The Nutcracker in Fullerton
Nouveau Chamber Ballet Presents The Nutcracker | Fullerton College Campus Theatre
December 21-22, 2024
Nouveau Chamber Ballet with Artistic Director, Sheree King, with Lois Ellyn Ballet Studio present a special one hour version of “THE NUTCRACKER”. Celebrate the season with Clara, the Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy as they journey to the Kingdom of Sweets.
Continue the magic at the Sugar Plum Party immediately following the performance for treats, a photo with the cast and much more! $10/ child (Parent or guardian must be present)
Reserved Seating $25
Where to see The Nutcracker in Huntington Beach
Narrated Nutcracker | Huntington Beach Central Library
December 5 and 13, 2024
Festival Ballet Theatre’s lavish 45-minute, narrated rendition of The Nutcracker is specially designed to introduce young children to the beauty of classical ballet and music. Celebrate the season with our heroine Clara, her Nutcracker, the Mouse King and the Sugar Plum Fairy as they take you on a magical journey to the mystical Kingdom of Sweets.
Tickets are $15 + $2.85 ticketing fee
Ballet Etudes presents The Nutcracker | Huntington Beach Historic Theater
December 7-8 and 15, 2024
Join Clara, her prince, the Sugar Plum Fairy and an entire cast of characters as The Nutcracker comes to life in a beautiful ballet presented by Ballet Etudes, a non-profit youth ballet company. This full-length production features the music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky, professional costumes, snow and other special effects, professional guest artists and a cast of young Orange County dancers. Educational presentation 30 minutes before curtain at the 2pm performances. Meet the characters for a photo opp after the show. Includes one 15-minute intermission. The historic Huntington Beach High School Theater is handicapped accessible and parking is free.
Tickets start at $30
The Nutcracker Ballet | Golden West College
December 7-24, 2024
Enjoy this cherished tradition of bringing beloved holiday music to life with nearly 300 performers in dazzling costumes. Travel through a magical world of life-size dolls, toy soldiers, and delicate snowflakes to the fabulous Land of Sweets, home of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Exuberant French, Spanish, Arabian, Russian, and Chinese dances await you. Orange County’s longest-running Nutcracker is the ultimate feel-good family tradition.
$30.00 General Admission
$25.00 for Children under 12, ASB/GWC Students and Seniors
Where to see The Nutcracker in Irvine
Festival Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker | Irvine Barclay Theatre
December 7-24, 2024
Festival Ballet Theatre’s family-friendly, breathtaking production features superb, colorful scenery and dazzling costumes, which make this age-old tradition sparkle like new. Be swept away by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score as the Sugar Plum Fairy, our heroine, Clara, and a cast of hundreds take you on a magical journey to mystical lands. This full-length traditional production is choreographed and directed by Festival Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Salwa Rizkalla, and features world-renowned guest artists, FBT’s professional company dancers, and exceptional young talent from across the Southland.
Tickets are $54 including fees
Nutcracker: Abridged Matinee for Young Audiences | Irvine Barclay Theatre
December 6, 2024
A 1-hour performance for student/school groups.
Festival Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker, part of Children’s Invitation to the Ballet, was specially designed to introduce elementary and junior high school students to the beauty of classical ballet and music.
The company’s lavish one-hour, narrated rendition of The Nutcracker returns to the Barclay. Celebrate the season with our heroine Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and a cast of hundreds as they take you on a magical journey to the mystical Kingdom of Sweets. Featuring magical effects, dazzling sets and opulent costumes, this professional production of The Nutcracker highlights FBT’s exceptional company dancers and budding young talent from across Southern California.
Tickets are $20 including fees
Where to see The Nutracker in San Clemente
Casa Nutcracker | Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens
December 5, 2024
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the Nutcracker ballet. This event features choreography tailored to Casa Romantica performed by the Orange County Ballet Theater.
Tickets are $50
Nutcracker performances in Orange County offer a magical and timeless experience that transcends generations.
The combination of exquisite ballet, enchanting storytelling, and the spirit of the holiday season creates a truly unforgettable evening.
Whether you’re a devoted fan or attending for the first time, these productions never fail to capture the hearts of all who attend.
From the stunning costumes and elaborate set designs to the incredible talent of the performers, the Nutcracker continues to be a cherished tradition that brings joy and wonder to the hearts of Orange County residents and visitors alike.
So, this holiday season, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Nutcracker and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
It’s a treat that will leave you with a warm and festive glow that lasts long after the final curtain falls.
There’s a lot more fun Christmas events happening in Orange County! Click the image below for a list of over 150 of them!
Originally published on November 13, 2024. Last Updated on November 13, 2024 by Pattie Cordova
