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The San Jose Nutcracker: A Local Holiday Tradition

Experience the magic of the Nutcracker set in 1905 San Jose, a unique holiday tradition celebrating local heritage and innovation.

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The San Jose Nutcracker is a unique ballet performance set in 1905 San Jose, featuring landmarks like the Electric Tower and celebrating the region's heritage. It's a reimagining of the classic Nutcracker story with a local twist, complete with swirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers.

A brief summary to The San Jose Nutcracker

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive an hour early for pre-concert festivities, including holiday decorations, music, and character interactions.
  • Consider attending "My Very First Nutcracker," a special one-act version perfect for families with young children.
  • Check for special events like Nutcracker Family Pride Night for an inclusive and joyful celebration.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The California Theatre is accessible via Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) bus and light rail. VTA light rail runs frequently, with stops in downtown San Jose. Several bus lines also serve the area. Check VTA's website for schedules and routes. A single VTA fare costs around $2.50.

  • Walking

    The California Theatre is located at 345 S 1st St in downtown San Jose. If you are already in the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, head north on Market Street, turn right onto San Carlos Street, then turn left onto 1st Street. The theater will be on your left. Walking time is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are available near the California Theatre. Garages such as the 4th Street Garage (44 S. Fourth St.) and the garages near the San Jose Hilton and River Park Tower are within walking distance. Parking rates vary, with special event rates often in effect. Check ParkWhiz or SpotHero for prepaid parking options. Expect to pay around $15-$30 for parking during events.

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Discover more about The San Jose Nutcracker

The San Jose Nutcracker offers a unique twist on the classic Nutcracker ballet, transporting audiences to San Jose in 1905. This reimagining incorporates local landmarks such as a replica of the historic San Jose Light Tower, also known as the Electric Tower, and a skyline inspired by the city at the turn of the century. The production celebrates the heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, once known as the “Valley of Heart's Delight,” and its transformation into a center of innovation. The ballet features dazzling scenic elements and costumes inspired by period dolls from the History San Jose archives. The performance includes familiar scenes with swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the Sugarplum Fairy, making it a cherished holiday tradition for families. Symphony San Jose often partners with New Ballet to bring Tchaikovsky's timeless score to life. There are also special one-act versions tailored for young audiences, called "My Very First Nutcracker". First performed in 1892 with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King”. The first U.S. performance was in 1944 by the San Francisco Opera Ballet. San José Dance Theatre brought its own version to Silicon Valley in 1966 and has produced it for over 57 years.

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