The Nutcracker San Jose

The Original San Jose Nutcracker

Step into a world where dreams come to life and holiday magic fills the air! Celebrate the 60th Jubilee Anniversary of The Original San Jose Nutcracker, an enchanting ballet that has been a cherished San Jose holiday tradition for generations.

Join us December 13-14 & 20,-21, 2025 at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts for a timeless journey featuring brave toy soldiers, shimmering snowflakes, and the elegance of waltzing flowers. Witness the epic battle between courageous soldiers and mischievous mice, all set beneath a breathtaking 60-foot Christmas tree.

This year’s landmark production is proudly accompanied by The Cambrian Symphony, bringing Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score to life with the power and beauty of a live orchestra.

Help us celebrate 60 years by enjoying one of our special themed performances to elevate your holiday experience — from our festive Ugly Sweater & Sparkles Matinee to our Tutus & Tiaras Sugar Plum Dress-Up Day and more. Each show offers a unique twist on the timeless classic you love.

VIP Experience — Don’t just see The Nutcracker, experience it! Enjoy a pre-performance backstage tour to see the magic behind the scenes, then join the cast in the exclusive Candy Kingdom Party in the Ridder Lounge, filled with sweet treats, festive crafts, and photo opportunities with beloved characters.

Let The Original San Jose Nutcracker ignite your imagination and create treasured memories during this dazzling Jubilee celebration!

Pat Fraguglia
on Goldstar 12/11/2016
The costumes were beautiful. The sets were spectacular especially that growing tree! The dancing was lovely...at times I had tears in my eyes just at the wonderment...it brought joy to all who were lucky enough to experience it! A definite must see for the holiday experience. Can' wait until next year ! 🙂
Evelyn S
on Goldstar 12/08/2018
It was a wonderful show for Christmas time. The dancers were world-class and presented great performances. Overall well plot, delightful and funny too.
Alfredo DeLeon
on Goldstar 12/15/2018
It was an excellent adaptation of the Nutcracker ballet. Beautiful orchestra performance making everyone note fluid. Definitely recommend it to anyone that enjoys music and ballet.
Michael L
Just a BIG thank you to everyone for last night's VIP experience. What a blast! We had not been to The Nutcracker since 2016.....Just loved this year's updated staging and storyline and the beautiful costumes. Our thanks to all for giving us such a great evening, and the many memorable pictures we took with the dancers (Testimonial from 2019 Nutcracker)
TallChick
on Goldstar 12/15/2019
Such an amazing performance! The sets and costumes complimented the amazing dancing!
Jackie Brett
on Goldstar 12/14/2019
Very nice production. Loved all the children in it and at the theater. Was a real Christmas Production and the dancing was good. Nice to have a live orchestra as well.

Once Upon A Nutcracker - The Children's Nutcracker in San Jose, CA

See the show modified for young children!

San Jose Dance Theatre, for the first time, will perform a special abbreviated production of The Nutcracker, called Once Upon A Nutcracker (perfect if this is your very first Nutcracker experience). Designed for toddlers, preschoolers, and young children, enjoy excerpts of the production at the San Jose Center for Performing Arts.

 Once Upon a Nutcracker (excerpts of the production).

Dates: Friday, December 12, 2025 @ 10:30 am.