City Ballet's The Nutcracker 2025 Guide

Name: City Ballet's The Nutcracker 2025 Guide
Start: 12/20/2025 2:00:00 PM
End: 12/23/2025 7:00:00 PM
Location: California Center for the Arts, Escondido

California Center for the Arts, Escondido

340 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido, CA 92025

Escondido

Date:

Dec 20, 2025 to Dec 23, 2025

Hours:

Matinee and / or Evening Shows - Check Days

Cost:

From $39 to $119

The City Ballet of San Diego proudly presents their 2025 rendition of The Nutcracker. Dive into a magical world filled with dazzling costumes & beautiful ballet.

Key Takeaways

The San Diego City Ballet's Nutcracker returns for its 31st year to the California Center for the Arts from December 20th to 23rd, 2025.
Are tickets still available? Yes, tickets are available for all performances starting at $39 dollars. For more information, read on!
The 2025 performance will include choreography by Wistrich, enchanting costumes & sets, plus the iconic score by Tchaikovsky.

By Todd Sarouhan

Last Updated on
Dec 18, 2025

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

City Ballet's The Nutcracker

Experience The Nutcracker

Tickets & Hotels

What to Expect

Bundle & Save

Beyond the Performance

Getting There & Parking

Helpful Tips

Highlights

City Ballet's The Nutcracker

Things to Do

Getting There

Tips

Experience the Timeless Wonder of 'The Nutcracker' in 2025

Getting Ready for the Nutcracker Ballet at the California Center for the Arts Escondido

Inside the California Center for the Arts Escondido

There's something magical about the holiday season in San Diego. It evokes thoughts of a winter wonderland, carols, seeing Santa and, of course, the iconic Nutcracker, which conjures images of gifts, families coming together, and childhood wonder.

Fans of Tchaikovsky will be happy to hear that the San Diego City Ballet is bringing back the Nutcracker for the holiday season. Audiences will get to see Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the entire cast perform in 2025 for their 31st annual time.

Whether you're a longtime fan or someone that's never seen the Nutcracker, this year's big anniversary is one you won't want to miss!

Nutcracker with Clara in the Nutcracker Ballet

About the Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is a truly magical Christmas tale. It's a holiday story I first saw performed as a kid and have been returning ever since.

The story follows Clara, a young girl who receives a nutcracker doll from her godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer at a family Christmas Eve party which comes to life in her dreams to take her on a fairy-tale journey. The adventure includes an epic battle with the evil Mouse King, and an unbelievable trip to the Land of Sweets where she encounters dancing, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and a whimsical world that can only be described as a dream.

The ballet is based on a story written by E.T.A. Hoffmann called The Nutcracker and the Mouse King while the absolutely epic music was written by Tchaikovsky. Marium Petipa and Lev Ivanov created the original choreography, although the dance moves often vary depending on the interpretation.

Classic Nutcracker Ballet City Ballet

City Ballet of San Diego's Rendition

Founded in 1993, City Ballet of San Diego provides the community with cultural enrichment, outreach programs, education, and, of course, ballet!

A mix of aspiring local dancers and professionals alike, the City Ballet of San Diego's version of The Nutcracker is sure to bring something unique to the production, making it an event not to be missed. I'd say that even if you've seen the ballet before, you should consider seeing it again as there's always new performers and surprises each year.

Angles Scene Dancers in the Nutcracker at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

My Personal Connection to the Performance

The San Diego City Ballet's Nutcracker is especially close to my heart.

My daughter has been performing in it since she was six years old. Every year, she moves up a role, from a snowflake one year to a party girl the next. With each performance, she seemingly falls even more in love with ballet. Watching her grow up on that stage has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me and my wife.

But make no mistake, this isn't just a children's production! City Ballet's Nutcracker is one of San Diego's top professional annual performances. More than half of the dancers are seasoned pros, including the principal dancers, and the kids get the amazing opportunity to perform right alongside them.

When you add in a live professional orchestra at every show, it becomes something truly magical - a full-scale, world-class production that captures the warmth and wonder of the holidays. It's one of those performances that makes my hair stand on end, especially because I'm lucky enough to have someone I love dancing in the show!

Nutcracker at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

Where Will the City Ballet's 2025 Nutcracker Performances Take Place?

This year's performance of the Nutcracker will once again take place at the beautiful California Center for the Arts, Escondido.

The Concert Hall of Escondido is reminiscent of Europe's classic performance spaces. As someone that visits each year to watch my daughter perform in the Nutcracker, as well as for various other performances, I can say that its fine acoustics, optimal sight lines, and state-of-the-art features make every performance enjoyable.

Getting Ready to Watch the Nutcracker Ballet at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

When are the Performances: Dates & Times

The 2025/2026 season will continue this December with the return of the Nutcracker, marking its 31st production with the City Ballet of San Diego. This year's performances will run from Saturday, December 20th until Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025 perfectly timed to uphold the story's status as a "magnificent holiday tradition".

2025 Showtimes are as follows:

Saturday, December 20th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, December 21st at 2:00pm
Monday, December 22nd at 7:30pm
Tuesday, December 23rd at 2:00pm and 7:30pm

Arrive Early for Free Parking

The California Center for the Arts parking lots fill up quickly before performances. Locals know to arrive at least 45 minutes early to snag a free spot in the adjacent lots. Otherwise, you'll be walking from City Hall or Grape Day Park—still free, but a longer walk in holiday attire!

Tickets & Overnight Stays

Now that you know a few basics about this year's performances, let me share the details about tickets. Here's what you need to know.

Ticket to the Nutcracker Ballet at The, CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

Ticket Information

Tickets are still available for all of this season's performances, which is great news!

While I've seen them for sale on ticket sites like Vivid Seats and StubHub, I personally prefer to buy them directly through the City Ballet of San Diego's official website or at the box office.

Face value without fees is between $39 and $119 per ticket depending on where you prefer to sit. Service charges seem to add about $10 to $24 per ticket.

Tickets will be delivered to you digitally, but if you'd like, you can print them out as well.

Various Terraces at California Center for the Arts Escondido

Discounts and Special Offers

Discount tickets are available with a season package as part of their two-production (10% off), or three- or four-production (20% off) bundles.

You may also be eligible for a discount if you are a senior, student, member of the military, have a large group, or possibly even if you get emailed a birthday discount code.

Northern Lights from a Distance at California Center for the Arts Escondido

Hotels Near the Performance Venue

If you are coming in from out of the area to catch a performance, I think it's really nice to make it part of an overnight stay. Fortunately, there are a number of beautiful hotels in the area.

Rancho Bernardo Inn

You could drive about 20 minutes to the Rancho Bernardo Inn, a 4-star property complete with a pool and spa, golf course, and many tasty dining options. My family loves this hotel!

Just know self-parking carries a $40 per night charge.

Lakehouse Resort

For a real treat, my family and I really love the Lakehouse Resort. Located about 9 miles, or 20 minutes west of the venue in the San Marcos neighborhood, the 4-star property features updated rooms, a wonderful pool, and three firepits complete with complimentary s'mores kits they give you when you check-in – a really nice touch!

They also have in-house dining, a golf course, and a sail club for boat rentals. It's one of our lesser-known favorite staycation spots.

Check out the hotel section on the Go Visit San Diego website for more options we love and to get additional information about hotels near the California Center for the Arts, Escondido.

Featured Hotel

Wyndham Oceanside at the Pier

Beaches

Museums

Pool

Wyndham Oceanside at the Pier is a top choice for those heading to San Diego and looking for condo living. Enjoy staying steps from the gorgeous coast!

Prices Starting at $171

Check Availability

What to Expect During Your Magical Evening

I will admit that I 'might' be a bit biased since my daughter is in the performance but it really is one of my favorite holiday traditions. It never stops giving me goosebumps!

The performance goes beyond seeing a ballet. It's an experience! Here's what you can expect when you go.

Choir Singing Christmas Caroles Before the Nutcracker at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

Before the Ballet: Carolers in the Lobby

You'll want to be sure to arrive early to see the City Ballet Chorus singing carols, inviting all to join them in the festive atmosphere ahead of each performance.

I can't wait to see them in their holiday finest as they welcome guests. Fingers crossed, they sing your favorite holiday song!

Scene from the Nutcracker Ballet

Let the Performance Begin: A Timeless Tale Reimagined

Just thinking of the Nutcracker invokes immediate iconic images and sounds for me and my family. From the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the catchy Chinese Tea Dance, it's hard not to get lost in the wonderland of 1892.

Once the performance begins, you'll get to enjoy the full-length ballet, accompanied by the City Ballet Orchestra, as they bring Tchaikovsky's world-famous composition to life.

Awarded 'San Diego's Best Nutcracker' the classic Victorian-era story follows Clara as she embarks on an adventure when the nutcracker gifted to her by her godfather turns into a prince at the stroke of midnight. You'll be able to cheer for the duo in their battle against the villainous Mouse King. You'll also be able to marvel at the delectable costume of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Toy Soldiers, dazzling sets, intricate choreography, and so much more!

They'll also venture to the Land of Sweets, meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, and encounter characters from around the world in this classic Christmas tale.

Calvary Scene Dancers in the Nutcracker Ballet at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

A Masterful, Orchestral Performance

Conducted by John Nettles, the City Ballet Orchestra will transport you into Pyotr Tchaikovsky's famous world as they perform the timeless classics live.

You'll be immersed in every note, harmony, and rhythm while you sit in the beautiful California Center for the Arts, Escondido. This production truly promises to be a love letter to a bygone era sealed with a modern twist.

Party Scene in the Nutcracker Ballet

Choreography That Captivates

While Tchaikovsky's epic score came first, it is now synonymous with the ballet and forever linked to it.

Tommy Award winner Elizabeth Wistrich will be at the helm for City Ballet's latest interpretation which promises to pay homage to the renowned choreographers Rudolph Nureyev, Lev Ivanov, Vassily Vainonen, and William Christensen, while still uniquely Wistrich.

The 2025 performances are sure to be fitting and lovely tributes to the ballet that first premiered 133 years ago!

Nutcracker Ballet

Sets and Costumes

Previous years' performances have been all about creating lavish productions, and we know this year's elaborate costumes and grand sets will be no exception!

There's always a treat in revisiting a timeless classic during the holiday. Every year is another chance to relive your favorite moments while being immersed in this season's fresh take.

From the vivid pink and gold flowing costumes and the deep red of the Nutcracker Prince to the grand reveal of the Land of Sweets and beautiful winter landscape, David Heuvel's designs will have a Russian feel as a tribute to Lev Ivanov's first performance of the ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia.

2025 is a new year. Who knows what dazzling surprises will be in store for fans of all ages?

Safari Park+Zoo = Go Pass

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Visit this 1,800 acre park featuring over 3,000 animals in their natural habitats as you ride the African tram! Buy an All-Inclusive Go Pass and admission to the San Diego Zoo is included!

Buy Now

What Kind of Deals Does the Go City San Diego Pass Offer?

The Go City San Diego pass gives visitors the ability to save up to 55% on attraction admissions.

Combine our exclusive 5% discount to save even more and consider the All-Inclusive pass to maximize your savings. Plus the pass gives you the ability to skip the line when visiting select attractions.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Planning Beyond the Performance

The Christmas and holiday spirit is alive and well in San Diego in 2025! The City Ballet's Nutcracker is a highlight of the season for me and my family, but there's so much more holiday magic spread around San Diego!

Before or after the show, here are some suggestions.

Fun Things to Pose with at the Nutcracker Ballet at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido

Get into the Holiday Spirit with a Go City San Diego Pass

Go City San Diego lets you do more when you visit our city, but it really shines during the holidays.

The Go City San Diego pass can get you into more attractions and on more tours, so you can keep the holiday fun going without breaking the bank.

The pass offers discounted access to family-friendly sites like the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, and SeaWorld San Diego for each park's holiday events. You can also get a little bonus savings on us when you use the discount code GVSD5OFF.

Places to Eat

No trip to the theater is complete without a fine meal before or after. Although there is no dining inside the venue, here are a few restaurants I like to go to when I'm in the area.

Bellamy's Restaurant: This is a great place for steak and other American cuisine dishes. They also have live performances that could make your day even more exciting.
Collette's: This farm-to-table restaurant specifically supports local farmers - plus the food is delicious.
Vintana Wine & Dine: Located in the penthouse of The Centre Escondido, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding area, plus the gourmet food and wine go down smoothly.

More Holiday Events We Love

While you're celebrating the season in San Diego, you might also consider these festive holiday events.

Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden: We always head to check out this event near Encinitas which features stunning light installations, floral displays, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.
Coastal Christmas Light Spectacular: Another one of my holiday traditions is the seaside walk through the Holiday Light Trail in Del Mar. Attractions include ice skating, igloos, fire pits, a mistletoe lounge, and photos with Santa, one of many locations in San Diego where you'll find Santa in 2025.
Coronado Skating by the Sea: If you're willing to make the 45 minute or so drive south of the venue to Coronado, you can also head to the Hotel del Coronado to skate by the sea or sit in the Frostbite Lounge around a roaring firepit while drinking holiday-themed libations.

More Things to Explore

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass

Discounts Available

Learn More

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Discounts Available

Learn More

The World Famous San Diego Zoo

Discounts Available

Learn More

Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Discounts Available

Learn More

Getting There: Parking and Transportation

The theater address is 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, CA. Here are some tips on how to get there and where to park.

Northern Lights at California Center for the Arts Escondido

Driving

From the I-15: Exit Valley Parkway. Go east on W. Valley Pkwy about one mile. Then turn left on N. Escondido Blvd. The venue will be on the right.
From SR-78: Continue into Escondido, follow signs for Downtown/Valley Parkway. Then head east on Valley Parkway and head left on N. Escondido Blvd.

Entrance to the California Center for the Arts Escondido

Parking

The center has lots of adjacent spaces to the venue, but they fill up fast, so I suggest that you get there early. You can also find additional lots that are within walking distance of the venue. I'd recommend the City Hall, Grape Day Park areas.

You can also always consider reserving parking in advance to save time and stress.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is an environmentally friendly way to get around, and it will save you the hassle of parking. Your options include:

Rail: NCTD SPRINTER to Escondido Transit Center (ETC) via W. Valley Parkway to N Escondido Blvd. (approximately a 10 - 12-minute trip).
Bus: Various NCTD Breeze routes travel along W. Valley Parkway and N. Escondido Blvd. Use the NCTD's planner for the best routing.

Know Before You Go: Helpful Tips

As someone that's seen the Nutcracker more times than I can count, I've picked up a thing or two that I think are worth knowing before you attend. Below are those tips to keep in mind!

Polichinelle Scene at the Nutcracker Concert in Your Car Series

Does Everyone Need a Ticket?

Yes, all guests must have a ticket. This includes children who might be sitting on your lap. Make sure you buy a ticket for everyone in your party, so they all get in without a hassle.

Who Will Enjoy the Nutcracker?

The Nutcracker is a magical ballet, suited for all ages. However, the theater recommends the event for those three and older.

Tickets and Arrival

I suggest that you show up a little early to ensure you get through admission lines and find your seats before the play begins. Bring your photo ID and the credit card used to buy tickets if you are picking up at will-call.

Guests who purchased tickets in advance should save them to their smartphone wallets or take screenshots of their QR codes in case WIFI is not available.

Timing and Format

Performances usually run for 2 hours or more with an intermission between the two acts. The door typically opens about 30 minutes before curfew. Late seating is held for a pause.