Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker in Calgary 2026: Dates & Showtimes

For many Calgary families, the season isn’t complete until the Christmas tree grows on stage at the Jubilee. Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker, reimagined by Artistic Director Francesco Ventriglia in 2025 with new sets by Italo Grassi and costumes by Gianluca Falaschi, returns with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s score live.

The Calgary run is December 11 to 24, 2026 at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, with matinees and evening shows.

More holiday shows are in our holiday theatre in Calgary guide.

The Nutcracker in Calgary 2026: Quick Facts

Showtimes

The Christmas Eve matinee is a favourite family tradition and sells out early.

Tickets

Buy through Alberta Ballet or the Jubilee box office, linked from the official listing. You’ll see Nutcracker tickets on resale sites at well above face value; stick to the official sellers so you know your seats are real and you’re paying the actual price.

Know Before You Go

• Matinees suit younger kids. Evening shows end later on a school night.
• Dress up if you like. Plenty of families make it a holiday outing.
• Arrive early. Parking and coat check get busy before curtain.
• Accessibility: the Jubilee is accessible; see the venue’s seating and parking options.

Getting There and Parking

The Jubilee is in the northwest, beside SAIT. The SAIT/AUArts/Jubilee CTrain station on the Red Line is a short walk away, which saves a lot of parking stress on busy matinee days. On-site parking is available; check the venue’s parking page.

Make a Day of It

• Another holiday classic: Theatre Calgary’s A Christmas Carol runs November 26 to December 27.
• Free lights nearby: the Lions Festival of Lights in Confederation Park is a few minutes north.
• More music: see our Christmas concerts in Calgary.

For the whole season, start with the Calgary Christmas Guide 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is The Nutcracker in Calgary in 2026?

December 11 to 24, 2026, at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

Is there live music?

Yes, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra plays live.

Is there a Christmas Eve show?

Yes, a 1 PM matinee on Thursday, December 24.

How long is it?

Plan on about two hours with intermission.

Is this the new production?

Yes. Francesco Ventriglia’s production premiered in 2025 and returns in 2026.

Where should I buy tickets?

Through Alberta Ballet or the Jubilee box office, not resale sites.

Prefer an earlier, smaller production? Jeunesse Classique’s The Nutcracker plays the University of Calgary Theatre December 4–6.

Related: Christmas with kids in Calgary, best Christmas things to do.

Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026 › Holiday Theatre in Calgary 2026