Every December, The Nutcracker returns to enchant Québec. The version by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, choreographed by Fernand Nault, is presented from December 5 to 30, 2026 at the Wilfrid-Pelletier Hall in Place des Arts, Montreal. With nearly 165 performers, the Orchestre des Grands Ballets, and Tchaikovsky's famous score, this classic ballet has become a true holiday ritual for families. Here's everything you need to know to plan your outing: dates, history, tickets, duration, and other versions to see elsewhere in Québec.
The Nutcracker 2026: Dates and Venue in Montreal
Les Grands Ballets present The Nutcracker from Saturday, December 5 to Wednesday, December 30, 2026, for a total of 21 performances. Depending on the day, the show is offered in the afternoon at 2 PM or in the evening at 7:30 PM.
The event takes place at the Wilfrid-Pelletier Hall in Place des Arts, in the heart of Montreal's Quartier des spectacles. It's the largest hall in Place des Arts and one of the most prestigious stages in Québec. December 2026 marks the return of a tradition well-known to Montrealers: Les Grands Ballets first presented The Nutcracker in Montreal in 1964.
The December 2026 dates fill up quickly, especially on weekends and performances close to Christmas. If you have a specific date in mind, book your tickets early.
The Story of The Nutcracker: A Christmas Tale
What is the story of The Nutcracker? The ballet is inspired by E. T. A. Hoffmann's tale, adapted into a libretto by Marius Petipa. It all begins on Christmas Eve, in the house of Alderman von Stahlbaum, who is hosting a party for his children, Clara and Fritz, and their friends.
Among the guests is Doctor Drosselmeyer, Clara's godfather, who is rumored to have magical powers. He gives his goddaughter a curious gift: a nutcracker. Jealous, Fritz breaks it, but the doctor quickly repairs it. Everyone dances around the Christmas tree, and the party ends joyfully.
Later that night, Clara goes down to the living room and falls asleep with her toy. That's when the magic happens: mice, rats, and toy soldiers invade the room and engage in battle. The Nutcracker comes to life and duels with the Rat King. Clara throws her magic slipper at the king's head and defeats him. As a reward, Drosselmeyer transforms the Nutcracker into a prince.
The prince then takes Clara to the Land of Snow, where she dances with the snowflakes, and then to the Kingdom of Sweets. In the second act, the Sugar Plum Fairy, King Candy, and the entire court celebrate Clara with a series of dances: Spanish Chocolate, Arabian Coffee, Chinese Tea, Russian Trepak, and the grand Waltz of the Flowers. On Christmas morning, Clara wakes up in her bed, her nutcracker in her arms.
What is the connection between The Nutcracker and Christmas?
The entire action takes place on Christmas night, from the Stahlbaum's Christmas Eve party to the morning of December 25. The illuminated tree, gifts, sweets, and snow make it the quintessential holiday ballet. That's why so many companies, in Québec and around the world, present it every December.
What is the meaning of The Nutcracker?
Beyond the tale, The Nutcracker speaks of the transition from childhood to adulthood, courage, and wonder. Clara saves the prince with a brave gesture, and her journey to the land of wonders reminds us to keep our eyes wide open to see the magic around us. Fernand Nault himself attributed the ballet's success to the charm of children, a gentle nostalgia, Clara's innocence, and classical dance carried by Tchaikovsky's music.
Fernand Nault's Version: A Tradition Since 1964
There are several versions of The Nutcracker worldwide, but Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' version holds a special place in Québec. Fernand Nault's choreography, based on Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, has been part of Montreal's cultural landscape for decades. Several generations of families have experienced their first ballet there.
The current production includes:
- nearly 165 performers on stage, including company dancers and students from the École supérieure de ballet du Québec;
- the Orchestre des Grands Ballets, a 55-musician ensemble, conducted by Jean-Claude Picard;
- sets by Peter Horne and costumes by François Barbeau, giving the show its magical style;
- lighting by Nicholas Cernovitch.
The presence of children in several roles, especially in the party scene, adds a touch of freshness to each performance. For the company, which alternates between classical ballet and contemporary dance throughout its seasons, The Nutcracker remains the highlight of the year. Photos of the show, many signed by Sasha Onyshchenko, can be seen on Les Grands Ballets' website.
Tickets, Prices, and Show Duration
Tickets for The Nutcracker 2026 at Place des Arts range from $99 to $194, taxes and fees included, depending on the date and seating location. Prices may vary: check the official ticket office for current rates and available discounts.
As for duration, plan for about 2 hours and 10 minutes:
- Act I: 54 minutes;
- intermission: 25 minutes;
- Act II: 50 minutes.
The show is recommended for ages 5 and up. For young children, the 2 PM matinee is often the best option.
The Nutcracker Fund for Children
The Nutcracker Fund allows nearly 3,000 children to experience their first ballet each year. A $100 donation invites a child to the educational matinee on December 15. A wonderful idea for a charitable gift during the holiday season.
The Nutcracker Elsewhere in Québec
When will The Nutcracker be performed in Québec in 2026? In addition to Place des Arts, other versions tour the province.
Ballet Ouest de Montréal (BO Montréal) presents its own version, choreographed and directed by Claude Caron. Its uniqueness: digital imagery projections accompany Clara to the land of snow and the kingdom of sweets, with professional artists and over 90 children on stage. Performances announced for 2026:
- Montreal: Pierre-Mercure Hall at the Centre Pierre-Péladeau, December 4, 5, and 6, 2026 (with special family performances on December 5 and 6 at 10:30 AM);
- Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu: Théâtre des Deux Rives, December 12, 2026;
- L'Assomption: Théâtre Hector-Charland, December 18 and 19, 2026.
In Québec City, Les Grands Ballets presented The Nutcracker at the Louis-Fréchette Hall of the Grand Théâtre de Québec from December 4 to 7, 2025, with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec. For 2026, dates in Québec City are yet to be confirmed: keep an eye on the Grand Théâtre's schedule.
Practical Information
- What: The Nutcracker, classical ballet by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, choreography by Fernand Nault.
- Dates: December 5 to 30, 2026, at 2 PM or 7:30 PM depending on the date.
- Venue: Wilfrid-Pelletier Hall, Place des Arts, 175 Sainte-Catherine Street West, Montreal.
- Price: From $99 to $194 (taxes and fees included), subject to change.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes with intermission.
- Age: Recommended for ages 5 and up.
- Tickets: Available on the official website of Les Grands Ballets or Place des Arts.
Our advice: arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere of the Quartier des spectacles, often lively in the evening. A meal before the matinee or a hot chocolate after the performance nicely rounds out the family experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Nutcracker
When is The Nutcracker in 2026?
In Montreal, Les Grands Ballets present The Nutcracker from December 5 to 30, 2026, at the Wilfrid-Pelletier Hall in Place des Arts. Ballet Ouest de Montréal also presents its version in December 2026 in Montreal, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, and L'Assomption.
How much do The Nutcracker tickets cost?
At Place des Arts, tickets for Les Grands Ballets' version range from $99 to $194, taxes and fees included. Prices vary depending on the date and section.
How long is the show?
Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including a 25-minute intermission.
From what age can you see The Nutcracker?
Les Grands Ballets recommend the show for ages 5 and up.
Also Discover During the Holidays
Check out the Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' Nutcracker page and the Place des Arts page. To extend the December magic, visit the Montreal Christmas Village. And until then, this fall, be dazzled by the Gardens of Light.
