Goh Ballet's The Nutcracker

Goh Ballet's Nutcracker is one of the biggest homegrown holiday productions in Vancouver, filling the Queen Elizabeth Theatre stage with more than 200 dancers, actors and gymnasts. Students from the Goh Ballet Academy share the stage with guest principal dancers from major international companies, and the Vancouver Opera Orchestra plays Tchaikovsky's score live in the pit. The story follows Clara on Christmas Eve as her Nutcracker battles the Mouse King, then carries her through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The 2026 run is short, just five performances over four days the week before Christmas, so weekend matinees tend to go first. Goh Ballet says its own box office is the only official seller and warns that resale sites may add fees or sell invalid tickets, so book through the official link. The show runs about two hours with an intermission, which suits most school-age children. Arrive early to deal with downtown parking or take the SkyTrain to Stadium-Chinatown.

Goh Ballet's The Nutcracker: dates and details

• When: December 17 and 18, 2026 at 7 pm; December 19 at 2 pm and 7 pm; December 20 at 2 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 649 Cambie Street, Vancouver
• Cost: Varies by performance and seat; buy through the official box office
• Official site: gohnutcracker.com
• Tickets: Book tickets

Dates, hours and prices can change, so check the official site before you go. For more festive outings, see our Christmas events in Vancouver guide and the list of Christmas tree lightings.