What to expect: The two hour show choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon takes viewers on a magical journey of a young girl, Marie, who dreams of traveling to Chicago World's Fair with the Nutcracker Prince on Christmas Eve.
Along her whimsical journey, she encounters mystical creatures, toy soldiers and other characters that come to life.
💠My thought bubble: I can finally check this holiday production off my bucket list! I didn't realize how much of an annual tradition it was, but it's a great activity if you're looking for something warm to do.
The show is ideal for all ages and gives you an opportunity to dress up.
Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker. Photo: Katie Miller
If you go: Get there early, snap a photo in front of the Christmas tree in the lobby, grab a cocktail or try their holiday peppermint ice cream.
"The Nutcracker" is on stage through Dec. 28 at the Lyric Opera House (20 N. Wacker Dr.)