Taking kids to "The Nutcracker" in Chicago this holiday season? We have a list of over two dozen performances of "The Nutcracker" in the Chicago area.

Do you have little ballerinas or danseurs with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads? Then it might be time to pirouette to a production of "The Nutcracker" ballet near Chicago this holiday season. Presented by students and professionals all across Chicagoland, the holiday classic of "The Nutcracker" ballet tells the story of a little girl who dreams that her toy nutcracker comes to life. Ballet companies and schools throughout the world each have their own twist on the story, many with elaborate sets and costumes that give kids and grown-ups the decadent feeling of the holidays. Tchaikovsky's score is one that many parents who once took dance lessons can still hum from memory.

As Chicago families return to theaters, we've increased this list from 16 performances last year to 27 this year. "The Nutcracker" in Chicago is presented at many venues downtown, in the neighborhoods, and in the suburbs. Some dance companies perform at multiple venues, and some venues host multiple dance companies. The show usually runs around two hours with one intermission. Maybe your kids will be inspired to learn to play an instrument or dance after seeing a performance. You can also pick from some unique ways to experience "The Nutcracker," including The Immersive Nutcracker at the Lighthouse Art Space, Do-It-Yourself Nutcracker at Indian Boundary Park, or The Nutcracker on Ice in Woodridge.

Looking for more to do this holiday season in Chicago? Check out our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Activities for Chicago Families.