Experience Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker across Budapest and Hungary in 2026—enchanting music, dreamlike staging, and family-friendly magic on tour. Book tickets for unforgettable winter performances.
when: 2026.01.06., Tuesday - 2026.01.08., Thursday, Budapest
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A timeless fairy tale returns in 2026 with Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker casting its spell across Hungary. The story asks whether appearances are enough, or if happiness lies in believing every object has a soul and a fate. A child’s faith changes the world: a plain wooden doll, cursed and trapped, and a girl who sees a feeling heart beneath painted colors—and fights to break the spell.
Budapest Highlights
Budapest, Terézváros, 22 Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út 22) hosts The Nutcracker (A diótörő) January 6–8 and 10–11, tickets $88–$161. On January 18, Zugló, 1 Dózsa György Road (Dózsa György út 1) welcomes Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (A diótörő), $35–$66.
Nationwide Tour
January 8, Szombathely, 18 Sugár Street (Sugár u. 18): $29–$41. January 10, Kaposvár, 97 János Arany Street (Arany János u. 97): $26–$44. January 13, Eger, 4 Hatvani Gate Square (Hatvani kapu tér 4). January 14, Miskolc, Generali Arena: $29–$40. January 15, Veszprém, 5 Külső-Kádárta Road (Külső-kádártai út 5): $31–$58. January 17, Győr, 46 Miklós Radnóti Road (Radnóti Miklós út 46): $29–$49.
Plan Your Night
From intimate halls to arena sparkle, expect sweeping scores, dreamlike staging, and a celebration of heart over appearances. Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs.
2025, adrienne
Pros
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Family-friendly classic with enchanting music and visuals that kids and adults can enjoy together
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The Nutcracker is internationally famous, so you’ll likely know the story and music
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Budapest is a well-known, tourist-friendly city with plenty to do before and after the show
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Multiple dates and cities across Hungary give flexibility if you’re traveling around
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Ticket prices are reasonable by U.S. standards, with options from budget to premium
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Easy to reach Budapest venues by metro/tram and taxis; driving between tour cities is straightforward on major roads
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Compares well to U.S. productions: more intimate venues and European flair at a lower price
- Hungarian may be used for announcements/programs, so non-speakers might miss some local context
Cons
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Smaller-city tour stops are less known to foreign visitors and may have fewer tourist amenities
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Some venues may sell out or shift dates, and last-minute changes are noted by organizers
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Public transport outside Budapest can be less frequent late at night, making returns trickier without a car
