Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market is Back for Holiday Shopping

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Houston’s favorite holiday shopping tradition returns November 12-15 with more than 280 merchants

The 46th annual Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market returns to Reliant Center (formerly NRG Center) November 12-15, bringing four days of holiday shopping with festive finds and three signature events, all supporting Houston Ballet, its Academy and community programs.

From fashion and fine jewelry to home décor, gourmet food, holiday treats and one-of-a-kind finds, Nutcracker Market brings together an unbeatable mix of things to gift, collect and keep for yourself.

Longtime favorites, including Paul Michael Company, Royal Standard and Taylor Paladino, will return alongside a fresh lineup of new merchants for this November Market, such as Tres Jolie Boutique, offering children’s accessories and apparel; Bella’s Hand Poured Candles, featuring deliciously scented, handmade candles; and Linked by Stevi, offering permanent jewelry designed to last. With more than 280 merchants and 29 newcomers making their Market debut, there will be plenty of new finds to discover around every corner.

MARKET DATES/HOURS: November 12-15, 2026

  • Thursday, November 12: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Friday, November 13: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 14: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, November 15: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

TICKETING

  • General Admission and Early Bird tickets are available at NutcrackerMarket.com via Ticketmaster.
  • General Admission: $25, plus fees, for one-day admission.
  • Early Bird: $60, plus fees, with 8:30 a.m. admission on Thursday and Friday and repeat admission all four days.
  • Sunday-Only General Admission: $20, plus fees. Quantity is limited.
  • Group General Admission: Available by calling 713-535-3231.

Children 2 and under are free. All other guests must have a ticket. Strollers, carts, rolling bags and wagons are not permitted inside the Market. A check-in area will be available near the entrance for these items.

SPECIAL EVENTS: Special event tickets include four-day repeat admission and early 8:30 a.m. entry on Thursday and Friday.

  • Wells Fargo Preview Party: Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. | Tickets start at $300.
  • Snow Queen’s Fashion Show and Luncheon: Thursday, November 12, 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Tickets start at $250.
  • Sugar Plum’s Fashion Show and Luncheon: Friday, November 13, 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Tickets start at $250.

COMMUNITY IMPACT:

“Every year, there’s a new reason to come to Nutcracker Market,” said Sonja Kostich, Houston Ballet Executive Director. “After a record-breaking Market in 2025, we’re making this year’s experience bigger and better than ever with a mix of new, exciting merchants and some longtime favorites we know shoppers love to see year after year.”

The impact of Nutcracker Market goes beyond the Market floor. As Houston Ballet’s largest annual fundraiser, 11 percent of all merchandise sales, along with admission and special event ticket proceeds, directly supports Houston Ballet, its Academy and community programs. Every purchase helps support the Ballet and provides opportunities for students, artists and community members throughout Houston.

“The Market has grown into more than a shopping tradition. It’s a community event that lifts up small businesses and helps fuel everything we do here at Houston Ballet,” said Kostich.

Photo credit: First Selects Photographer Melissa Taylor

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