Shopping

Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market®

NRG Park

Shop for unique gifts and holiday treasures at Houston's premier holiday market, featuring hundreds of merchants while supporting Houston Ballet's education programs.

Event Details

Dates

November 13 – 16, 2025

Location

NRG Park

NRG Parkway, Houston, TX 77054

Pricing

General Admission: $20 for one-day entry. Early Bird: $60 for all four days. Children 2 and under free.

Age Groups

Great for all ages. Shopping and festive atmosphere suitable for families, though younger children may tire during extended visits.

Overview

The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market® is Houston's most anticipated holiday shopping event, transforming NRG Park into a winter wonderland filled with unique gifts, gourmet foods, home décor, jewelry, fashion, and more. Since 1981, this beloved market has featured hundreds of carefully curated merchants from across the country, offering one-of-a-kind items you won't find anywhere else. Beyond the shopping, the market serves a philanthropic mission - all proceeds benefit Houston Ballet's education and community programs, making every purchase support the arts in Houston.

What to Expect

Hundreds of Unique Merchants

Browse offerings from over 300 merchants featuring jewelry, fashion, home décor, gourmet foods, children's items, art, and specialty gifts you won't find in typical stores.

Holiday Shopping Paradise

Find perfect gifts for everyone on your list in one location, from handcrafted artisan pieces to luxury items, all in a festive holiday atmosphere.

Gourmet Food & Treats

Sample and purchase gourmet foods, holiday treats, specialty ingredients, and culinary gifts from vendors across the country.

Supporting the Arts

Every purchase supports Houston Ballet's scholarship programs and community education initiatives, making your holiday shopping meaningful and impactful.

Practical Information

Market Hours

Four days: November 13-16, 2025 (specific hours vary by day)

Admission Pricing

$20 one-day, $60 Early Bird (all 4 days), Kids 2 & under free

Age Suitability

All ages welcome, best for those who enjoy shopping

Parking

NRG Park parking lots (may be busy, arrive early)

Helpful Tips

  • Arrive early, especially on opening days, for best vendor selection and to avoid crowds
  • Wear comfortable shoes - the market is extensive and you'll be walking for hours
  • Bring a list and set a budget - with so many tempting items, it's easy to overspend
  • Consider the Early Bird pass ($60) if you're a serious shopper - it pays for itself and allows multiple visits
  • Parking and traffic into NRG Park can be heavy - allow extra time, especially on weekends
  • Bring reusable shopping bags or a rolling cart for your purchases
  • Many vendors accept credit cards, but bring some cash for smaller merchants
  • Take breaks at the food vendors - shopping is exhausting and you'll need energy
  • Follow Houston Ballet on social media for vendor previews and special promotions

Historical Context

The Nutcracker Market began in 1981 as a small fundraiser for Houston Ballet and has grown into one of the largest and most successful charity markets in the nation. Over four decades, the market has raised millions of dollars to support Houston Ballet's scholarship programs, academy operations, and community education initiatives. The market's success demonstrates Houston's commitment to supporting the arts while providing a unique shopping experience that has become a cherished holiday tradition for generations of Houston families.

Location