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The Best Nutcracker Ballets in NYC for Kids

The Yorkville Nutcracker stars talented local dancers in an NYC-centric version of the classic tale. Photos by Eduardo Patino

11/10/24 - By Drew Kristofik

The Nutcracker ballet is a classic holiday experience for kids and parents, and there are now so many versions of The Nutcracker ballet in NYC, that a parent could go sugar plum crazy trying to figure out which one is best for their family.

We've found more than a dozen variations of The Nutcracker ballet playing this season across all five NYC boroughs, from the New York City Ballet's classic iteration at Lincoln Center to a 92Y production complete with a fabulous afterparty. We've also found a preschool-friendly Nutcracker performance starring stunning marionettes and three performances that are completely FREE.

Read on for our picks for the best Nutcracker ballets in NYC for families, and find more holiday-must do's and Christmas activities in our Guide to the Holidays in NYC.

Click through to check our listings for all the details, including addresses, times, and recommended ages, and check our Family Activity Calendar for more must-see children's shows and holiday theater.

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