Where to See The Nutcracker Ballet in NYC in 2023

The Yorkville Nutcracker stars talented local dancers in an NYC-centric version of the classic tale. Photos by Eduardo Patino
The Yorkville Nutcracker stars talented local dancers in an NYC-centric version of the classic tale. Photos by Eduardo Patino
11/10/23 - By Drew Kristofik

The Nutcracker ballet is a classic holiday experience for kids and parents, and we're excited to see old favorites and new versions of The Nutcracker ballet in NYC in 2023.

Many children are captivated by the energy and drama of The Nutcracker—from the sweet Sugar Plum Fairy visit to the frantic battle with the Rat King—but the full-length ballet can be long for some. We've found more than a dozen variations of The Nutcracker ballet playing this season across all five NYC boroughs, from Lincoln Center's iconic classic iteration to abbreviated just-for-kid versions. We've also found one Nutcracker ballet performance featuring stunning marionettes and three performances that are 100% FREE!

Read on for all 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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Places featured in this article:


Lincoln Center - Koch Theater

Winter Garden at Brookfield Place

Ballet Arts Center for Dance

Queensborough Performing Arts Center

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

College of Staten Island, Williamson Theater