By Sarah Nguyen, Mom’s Guide contributor 

Looking for a fun holiday activity for your family?  The annual production of The Nutcracker produced by the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet, is a lovely, budget-friendly treat for parents and kids alike.

I had never been to a youth ballet before and I was pleasantly surprised.  Professional lighting, wonderful costumes and virtually all of the roles are played by ballet students age 4-18.  It really was magical and fun to watch.  While I had to leave our 2 year old son at home (sitting quietly for two hours would have been a Christmas miracle) our 3 year old, ballerina loving daughter was in a trance the entire time. She loved it.

San Diego Civic Youth Ballet provides classical instruction to students ages 4-adult and produces full length ballets each year in Balboa Park, including The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Fairy Tales in the Park.

Snowflakes taking some direction during the dress rehearsal

Performances of The Nutcracker run December 10-21 at the historic Casa del Prado Theater in Balboa Park, with Special Education and Girl Scout shows held on the 10th and 11th respectively.  Tickets, $10-$18, and information can be found at www.sdcyb.org or by calling 619-233-3060.

Thank you San Diego Civic Youth Ballet for the front row seats at the final dress rehearsal!