For generations of Montreal families, the holidays don’t really start until they’ve seen The Nutcracker. Les Grands Ballets Canadiens’ production, with Fernand Nault’s beloved choreography and Tchaikovsky’s score played live, returns to Place des Arts in December 2026.
The Nutcracker 2026: key facts
- Dates: December 5 to 30, 2026 (21 performances)
- Times: 2 p.m. matinees and 7:30 p.m. evening shows
- Where: Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts, 175 Sainte-Catherine Street West
- Metro: Place-des-Arts
- Tickets: Regular tickets from $99 to $194, taxes and fees included, on the Place des Arts and Grands Ballets websites
- Company: Les Grands Ballets, with Les Grands Ballets Orchestra conducted by Jean-Claude Picard
About this production
Fernand Nault’s version, based on the choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, has been a Montreal tradition for decades. Young Clara receives a nutcracker on Christmas Eve; toys come to life, mice attack, and the nutcracker carries her away to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Students of the École supérieure de ballet du Québec dance many of the children’s roles, which makes it a favourite with young audiences.
Tips for booking
- Book early for weekends. Saturday and Sunday matinees and the shows just before Christmas sell fastest.
- Pick a matinee for young children. The 2 p.m. shows are easier for little ones. The production is best for ages 5 and up.
- Look for package deals. Les Grands Ballets offers savings when you book The Nutcracker with other shows of the season.
- Buy from official sellers. Resale sites often charge more than face value. Use placedesarts.com or grandsballets.com.
Make an evening of it
Place des Arts is right on the Place des Festivals, home of the Great Christmas Market and the LUMINO light installations. Arrive early to stroll the chalets before the show, or stop for mulled wine afterwards on market nights. For more holiday shows, see our Christmas concerts guide.
