A Magical Holiday Tradition: The Pacific Northwest Ballet’s The Nutcracker

This weekend was packed, and I’m proud to say that’s why I had to skip the past two days of Blogmas. In all honesty, I had one of the best weekends I’ve had in a while. I packed my days with cleaning my home until it was literally sparkling, then dressed up, enjoyed brunch, saw a ballet, explored a craft fair, reconnected with three of my best friends, had the best sushi, and savored a few great glasses of wine.

One highlight of the weekend was seeing George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the Pacific Northwest Ballet. My friend and I decided that this needs to be an annual tradition because it’s always the best day. We leave every performance happy, inspired, and full of holiday cheer. And each year, the experience feels fresh—whether it’s the ballerinas, the costumes, or subtle differences in the staging, there’s always something new to enjoy.

Let’s dive into what makes The Nutcracker at PNB so special and why you should consider making it a cherished holiday tradition too.

Table of Contents

A Magical Holiday Tradition: The Pacific Northwest Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Support the Arts

The arts are vital to every culture, and there’s something magical about George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker—especially as performed by the Pacific Northwest Ballet. The production is vibrant and diverse, featuring my favorite choreography and, as always, Tchaikovsky’s breathtaking iconic score, played live by the phenomenal PNB Orchestra. Supporting this performance isn’t just about enjoying a show; it’s about keeping the arts alive in our community too!

Family-Friendly Fun

One of my favorite parts of attending The Nutcracker is seeing families, dressed in their holiday best, experiencing the magic together. It’s a beautiful way to bond, build traditions, and create lasting memories. Watching kids gaze in amazement at the Sugar Plum Fairy or giggle at the antics of the Mouse King is pure joy. Plus, it’s a screen-free activity that engages everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.

An Excuse to Dress Up (or not!)

Seattle isn’t exactly known for dressing up (let’s be real), but The Nutcracker brings out everyone’s festive side. You’ll see a mix of styles—from over-the-top holiday glam to cozy sweaters and jeans. Personally, I love any excuse to wear a fancy dress and heels, so this is always a highlight for me. Whether you’re all-in or keeping it casual, you’ll have a terrific time regardless of what you wear.

Matinee Magic

I highly recommend attending a matinee, especially if you’re coming in from outside the city. We love the 2 PM Saturday shows because they allow us to start the day with brunch, take our time snapping photos, and sip champagne before the curtain rises. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and festivity.

Skip the Concessions Line By Ordering Ahead

Here’s a pro tip: skip the long concession lines by pre-ordering! Before the show, you can reserve drinks or treats at the bar, and they’ll be ready for you at intermission. From champagne to their famous mouse-shaped cookies, it’s a game-changer that saves so much time – especially if you have impatient little ones who don’t like lines!

Escape from Holiday Stress

The holidays can be overwhelming, but The Nutcracker offers the best escape. For a few hours, you can set aside thoughts of gift shopping, meal prep, or travel logistics and simply enjoy the magic of the season. It’s a chance to reset, recharge, and soak up the joy of the holidays.

It’s Simply Magical

There’s nothing quite like the enchantment of The Nutcracker. McCaw Hall is decked out with sparkling Christmas trees and festive holiday decor—you’re transported to a wonderland. The performances are stunning, the music is unforgettable, and the atmosphere is pure holiday magic. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for beautiful ornaments and keepsakes to commemorate your visit.

Thank you so much for reading this post, darlings! I always have the best time at The Nutcracker, and I’m thrilled to make it an official friend tradition. If you’re looking for a magical, heartwarming way to celebrate the season, this is it.

Wishing you a week filled with holiday cheer!