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.
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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about The San Jose Nutcracker
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old San Jose City Hall Cornerstone
0.3 km
Explore the Old San Jose City Hall Cornerstone, a historic landmark that captures the essence of San Jose's rich architectural heritage.
Monument to the Founders of San Jose
0.4 km
Discover the Monument to the Founders of San Jose, a historical landmark celebrating the pioneers who shaped California's vibrant history and cultural diversity.
Historic Tower Hall
0.6 km
Discover Tower Hall, the oldest building at San Jose State University, a beautifully restored Spanish Colonial Revival landmark with a rich history and enduring significance in the heart of San Jose.
San Jose Downtown Historic District
0.7 km
Explore the San Jose Downtown Historic District: A captivating blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy in California's heart.
César Chávez Monument
0.7 km
A powerful tribute to César Chávez on the SJSU campus, the Arch of Dignity, Equality, and Justice inspires reflection on social justice and the enduring fight for farmworkers' rights.
San Jose City Hall
0.8 km
Explore San Jose City Hall, an architectural gem in Silicon Valley, where modern design meets vibrant civic life in the heart of California.
Trinity Cathedral
0.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Trinity Cathedral, a must-visit Episcopal church in the heart of San Jose.
St. James Park - San Jose History Walk Marker #23
0.9 km
Discover the historical heart of downtown San Jose at St. James Park, a verdant oasis established in 1848, offering a blend of historical significance and urban tranquility.
Birthplace of A.P. Giannini - San Jose History Walk #12 Marker
0.9 km
Explore the historical birthplace of A.P. Giannini in San Jose, where banking history began and innovation thrived.
Luis María Peralta Adobe
0.9 km
Discover the rich history of San Jose at the Luis María Peralta Adobe, the city's oldest building and a true architectural gem.
Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
1.0 km
Explore the Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House, a historic site in San Jose that reveals California's rich cultural heritage through its preserved architecture and engaging exhibits.
Ashworth-Remillard House
2.3 km
Discover San Jose's hidden gem: the Ashworth-Remillard House, a beautifully preserved Victorian farmhouse offering a glimpse into the lives of Gold Rush pioneers and brick manufacturing magnates.
Roberto Adobe & Sunol House
2.4 km
Explore the rich history of San Jose at Roberto Adobe & Sunol House, a charming historical landmark celebrating California's vibrant past.
El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site
2.6 km
Discover the humble origins of Silicon Valley at the El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site, marking California's first civilian settlement and the birth of San Jose in 1777.
Hill House
2.7 km
Explore the historical charm of Hill House in San Jose, a captivating landmark showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of California.
Unmissable attractions to see
California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
0.0 km
Discover the California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in San Jose, where young talent converges to create captivating musical performances that inspire.
California Theatre
0.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of California Theatre, a premier performing arts venue in San Jose, California.
The Fountainhead
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Fountainhead, San Jose's ultimate bar destination for travelers.
Opera San Jose
0.1 km
Discover the magic of live performances at Opera San Jose, a cultural gem in the heart of California's Silicon Valley.
stage entrance | California Theatre
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting California Theatre in San Jose, a historic venue offering captivating performances and a vibrant cultural experience.
San Jose Convention Center & South Hall
0.3 km
Explore the San Jose Convention Center & South Hall, a dynamic venue at the heart of Silicon Valley known for its diverse events and innovative culture.
IMAX Dome Theater
0.3 km
Discover the immersive world of cinematic experiences at the IMAX Dome Theater in San Jose, where films come to life like never before.
The Tech Interactive
0.3 km
Explore innovation and creativity at The Tech Interactive, an engaging museum in San Jose that inspires the tech leaders of tomorrow.
Plaza de Cesar Chavez
0.3 km
Discover Plaza de Cesar Chavez, a vibrant urban park in San Jose, perfect for relaxation, cultural events, and community gatherings.
BioDesign Studio
0.3 km
Discover the innovative fusion of art and science at BioDesign Studio in San Jose, where creativity meets sustainability.
Essential places to dine
Crepes Bistro
4.7 km
Discover Crepes Bistro: A charming crêperie in Santa Clara serving delicious sweet and savory crêpes with gluten-free and vegan options.
Round Table Pizza
4.7 km
Experience delicious pizza and wings at Round Table Pizza in Santa Clara - where family dining meets flavor!
The Hut
5.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of American barbecue at The Hut in Santa Clara – where every bite is packed with flavor.
Habitant
5.3 km
Experience exceptional dining at Habitants in Santa Clara – where culinary artistry meets inviting ambiance.
The Cheesecake Factory
5.4 km
Experience culinary delight at The Cheesecake Factory in Santa Clara with its vast menu of American classics and delectable cheesecakes.
Hungry Hound
5.5 km
Discover the charm of Traditional American cuisine at Hungry Hound in Santa Clara – where comfort food meets affordability.
Fiorillo's Restaurant and Banquet Facilities
5.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fiorillo's Restaurant in Santa Clara – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Yuki Sushi Santa Clara
5.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Yuki Sushi Santa Clara – where fresh ingredients meet traditional culinary artistry.
Homeroom
5.7 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of traditional American cuisine at Homeroom in Campbell, California – where comfort meets quality.
Local Kitchens
5.7 km
Experience diverse cuisines at Local Kitchens in Campbell – where every dish tells a story!
The Melt at Local Kitchens
5.7 km
Discover gourmet burgers in Campbell at The Melt—where every bite bursts with flavor in a vibrant setting.
Mio Vicino
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mio Vicino in Santa Clara - home to delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
White Elephant Thai Cuisine
5.9 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at White Elephant in Santa Clara - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Euro Grill
5.9 km
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at Euro Grill – where delightful dishes meet warm hospitality in Santa Clara.
The Garret of Campbell
6.0 km
Discover The Garret of Campbell: A culinary delight serving gourmet pizzas and burgers in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Petite Galleria
2.2 km
Explore Petite Galleria in San Jose, where art meets craftsmanship to offer unique gifts and treasures for every traveler.
Moon Zooom
3.2 km
Explore Moon Zooom in San Jose, CA – a vintage clothing haven where every piece has its own story, perfect for fashion lovers and tourists alike.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
5.0 km
Discover the magic of creation at Build-A-Bear Workshop, where children bring their stuffed friends to life through creativity and fun.
Au La La Design
5.1 km
Experience the latest trends in women's fashion at Au La La Design, Santa Clara's go-to boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Bloomingdale's
5.2 km
Explore Bloomingdale's in Santa Clara for a luxurious shopping experience with top fashion brands and exquisite home decor.
Game Kastle (Santa Clara)
5.2 km
Explore Game Kastle in Santa Clara, a bustling game store and community hub for board games, trading cards, and miniatures enthusiasts.
Cartier
5.2 km
Discover the elegance of Cartier in Santa Clara, where exquisite jewelry and luxury fashion accessories await every discerning shopper.
Free People
5.2 km
Explore the unique selection of trendy women's fashion, vintage clothing, and chic accessories at Free People in Santa Clara.
Westfield Valley Fair
5.2 km
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Westfield Valley Fair, the ultimate destination in Santa Clara, California.
Montblanc
5.2 km
Explore the world of luxury fashion accessories, leather goods, stationery, and watches at Montblanc in Santa Clara, where elegance meets craftsmanship.
Christian Louboutin Santa Clara
5.2 km
Experience the luxury of Christian Louboutin in Santa Clara, where exquisite footwear meets unparalleled craftsmanship in a stunning retail environment.
Tiffany & Co.
5.3 km
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DIOR Santa Clara Valley Fair
5.3 km
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The North Face Westfield Valley Fair Mall
5.3 km
Explore top-quality outdoor gear and apparel at The North Face in Westfield Valley Fair Mall, your go-to destination for adventure essentials.
Lush Cosmetics Valley Fair
5.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Normandy House
4.7 km
Discover Normandy House, a lively bar and cocktail lounge in Santa Clara, offering an inviting atmosphere and an extensive drink menu for all occasions.
Koja Bar
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Koja Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and visitors connect over drinks and good company.
Lobby Lounge
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge in Santa Clara, where stylish decor meets a diverse drink selection for the perfect retreat.
Taplands
5.6 km
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Rocco's Ballpark
5.7 km
Experience the excitement of live sports at Rocco's Ballpark, Santa Clara's premier sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Broncos Cocktail Lounge
5.7 km
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Da Silva's Bronco's Pub
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Santa Clara at Da Silva's Bronco's Pub, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together.
thirsty.bar
5.8 km
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Aces Icehouse
6.8 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Aces Icehouse in Santa Clara, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together.
Court's Lounge
7.1 km
Discover Court's Lounge, where cocktails, karaoke, and sports come together for a fantastic night out in Campbell, California.
Khartoum Lounge
7.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Khartoum Lounge in Campbell, where karaoke meets a stylish bar atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Cardiff & Cocktails
7.1 km
Unwind at Cardiff & Cocktails, where handcrafted cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in Downtown Campbell.
Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
7.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Coach's Sports Bar & Grill, where sports meet delicious grill delights in Campbell, California.
EMA Karaoke & Bar
7.7 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke adventure at EMA Karaoke & Bar in Santa Clara, where every night is a celebration of music and fun.