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A Timeless Tradition

Attention, shoppers! The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market returns to celebrate 42 years of holiday tradition.

Article by Zoraida Koenck

Photography by Photos courtesy of the Nu

Originally published in Memorial Lifestyle

It’s time to roll out the ruby red carpet again! Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market returns to NRG Center on November 10-13, 2022 to celebrate 42 years of tradition, holiday cheer, and shopping, of course. This year, shoppers can expect the market’s signature giant Nutcrackers, magic, merchants and mimosas. With more than 270 merchants from across the country decked out with holiday apparel, jewelry, accessories, home décor, gifts, toys, and more, it is sure to be a wonderful time. 

“Nutcracker Market is an experience which has to be seen to be believed – there is going to be something fun and special and unique to look at everywhere you turn,” said Patsy Chapman, Nutcracker Market CEO. “We spend the entire year planning this event and building that perfect mix of merchants to ensure there is something for everyone. Add in the music, decorations, twinkling lights, and the overall sense of cheer and excitement and it is clear why Nutcracker Market is Houston’s kickoff to the holiday season!” After 34 incredible years as Nutcracker Market CEO, Patsy Chapman will retire and be recognized as this year’s Market Honoree for her dedication and impact on the Houston Ballet.

Each year, Nutcracker Market carefully selects their merchant list to showcase a mix of familiar favorites and fun new shops. Returning merchants include Anything Bling Boutique, Marye-Kelley, The Round Top Collection, The Royal Standard, Texas Tamale Company, Pewter Lady, perfect for seasoned Nutcracker Market shoppers to enjoy. In addition to Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker Boutique returning with their namesake product, Donne Di Domani will be back offering their famous pasta sauce. 

Of the 270 merchant booths, 50 new merchants will debut this November. For a fun and customized hat, Topped Hats is a great option. Looking for cool picnic baskets for your next weekend getaway? Head to Primeware Inc. Then, visit Drapela Works for customized wooden charcuterie and cutting boards. Shoppers can also treat themselves to some pampering products at Musee Bath. Stunning and meaningful jewelry collections can be found at Bryan Anthonys. Complete the perfect holiday look with apparel from French Boutique. Share the holiday cheer with REECII’s handmade ornaments and holiday cards. General Admission tickets are $20 (cash or check) and good for one-day admission only. 

 

A part of Houston Ballet Foundation, Nutcracker Market is a fundraiser that helps give back to our city. 11% of merchandise sales from the market remains in the City of Houston. By purchasing admission tickets and shopping at the market, shoppers support Houston Ballet Foundation, its Academy and scholarship programs. 

In 2021, funds raised introduced ballet to students from 400+ local schools with classes and performances at Houston Ballet’s prestigious Center for Dance, awarded $163,000 to 44 students for continuing studies at Houston Ballet Academy, and showcased ballet to 168,000 students in Houston through the Academy’s Education and Community Engagement programs. 

Last year, Nutcracker Market welcomed 78,000 shoppers which produced $19 million in merchandise sales and Houston Ballet Foundation received $4.6 million. This year, with 540,000 square feet for over 270 merchant booths, more than 80,000 shoppers are expected to attend. To date, Nutcracker Market has contributed more than $80 million to the Houston Ballet Foundation.

In 1981, when Houston Ballet’s supporter Preston Frazier introduced the concept of a holiday market to raise funds for the Houston Ballet Foundation, it was held in a church bazaar. Now, Houston’s favorite tradition to kick off the holiday season has grown to be a very anticipated four-day magical shopping experience at NRG Center. www.nutcrackermarket.com.

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