Few holiday traditions are as magical, or as beloved, as The Nutcracker. From twinkling lights and swirling snowflakes to triumphant battles and Sugar Plum dreams, this iconic ballet captures the wonder of the season like nothing else. Whether you’re introducing your kids to the story for the first time or keeping a cherished family tradition alive, these upcoming Nutcracker performances and themed events across Douglas County are sure to spark joy, nostalgia, and a little holiday enchantment. Let the magic begin!
Events are listed chronologically; click the title of any event to learn more and purchase tickets.
Boulder Ballet presents A Peek Behind the Curtain: The Making of The Nutcracker
Wednesday, November 19
The School House, Parker • $10
This intimate program features beautifully staged excerpts from The Nutcracker performed by the professional company, alongside an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how this beloved production comes to life.
Colorado School of Dance presents Nutcracker of Parker
Thursday, November 20 - Tuesday, November 25
PACE Center, Parker • $36-$44
Kick off the season by bringing your family to the annual holiday tradition, the Nutcracker of Parker! This magical ballet features the famous score of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky along side the best of the best pointe dancers and community actors, blending a cast of both professionals and local dancers from our community.
Colorado Ballet presents The Nutcracker
Saturday, November 29 - Sunday, December 28 (Sensory friendly performance November 30 at 1pm)
Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver • Tickets start at $50
The Nutcracker is back for Colorado Ballet’s 65th season, ready to enchant audiences of every age. This beloved holiday tradition brings the magic of the season to life with mischievous dancing mice, dazzling Sugar Plums, swirling snowflakes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra. Get ready for a festive experience that captures the wonder and joy of the holidays!
Clara’s Dream: A Retelling of the Nutcracker Ballet
Wednesday, December 3 and Thursday, December4
PACE Center, Parker • $23
Clara’s Dream, a delightful twist on The Nutcracker, is an all-student dance performance. We’re excited to have all our dancers, from ages three to adults, take the stage to perform our unique version of the classic holiday favorite.
Denver Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker
Thursday, December 11 - Tuesday, December 16
PACE Center, Parker • $29-$34
It's one of the sweetest treats of the holiday season: The Nutcracker, proudly presented by Parker Arts and Denver Ballet Theatre. With brilliant choreography and a beloved score by Tchaikovsky, Parker Arts’ and Denver Ballet Theatre’s production is a festive treat for the entire family!
International Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 13
Newman Center for the Performing Arts • $50
International Youth Ballet proudly presents THE NUTCRACKER. From the moment the curtain rises, you begin a wondrous journey with Clara, a prince, and a Sugar Plum Fairy featuring extravagant sets and beautiful costumes to the familiar scores of Tchaikovsky. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to start the holiday season!
Tempo School of Performing Arts presents The Nutcracker
Thursday, December 18
Douglas County High School, Castle Rock
• $17-$24
Join us for the 3rd Annual performance of Tempo School of Performing Arts' The Nutcracker!
The Nutcracker of Castle Rock
Thursday, December 18 - Sunday, December 21
Castle View High School, Castle Rock • $20
Experience the magic as you watch this classic story unfold! Join us as we follow a young girl who befriends a nutcracker who comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King. Follow her on her adventure through a snowstorm and into the Land of Sweets! A community tradition, this holiday isn’t complete without The Nutcracker of Castle Rock!
Parker Dance Academy presents The Nutcracker 2025
Friday, December 19 - Saturday, December 20
Ponderosa High School, Parker • $25
With breathtaking costumes, professionally painted sets, and a talent level that is second to none, Parker Dance Academy's production of this holiday classic will bring you all the magic and promise of the Nutcracker tradition!
Summit Dance Academy presents The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 20 - Sunday, December 21
PACE Center, Parker • $31
oin us for a spectacular evening featuring guest performers, including former Houston Ballet artists in the roles of the Sugarplum Fairy and Cavalier, alongside Grant McIntosh as the Nutcracker Prince and Daniel Ojeda as Drosselmeyer.
*Please note that children under 2 years old will not be allowed to attend.
We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of event information. However, we recommend checking with the venue to make sure an event is not changed or canceled. Get a FREE kid-friendly calendar for Douglas County, CO, full of festivals, activities, and events delivered right to your inbox when you sign up at highlandsranch.macaronikid.com/subscribe.
