Houston Ballet’s Crazy Popular Nutcracker Market Adds a New Spring Shopping Extravaganza

Let’s just say that Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker Market is something of the goose that laid the golden egg. After all, last November’s market drew a record 113,290 shoppers and earned a whopping $5.5 million for Houston Ballet coffers. And like the countryman in the Aesop’s fable, the ballet would like more.

Say “hello” to the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market Spring Spectacular!

Yes, the Houston Ballet has  created a spring edition of the wildly successful market. Only in this scenario, the emphasis will be on seasonal items geared to a playful spring and a happy summer. Save the dates Friday through Sunday, April 12 to 14.

“We have considered the idea of a spring event for several years, given the incredible enthusiasm for our holiday themed Nutcracker Market,” Nutcracker Market CEO Patsy Chapman says in a statement. “It’s truly exciting to be able to offer all the best elements of Nutcracker Market, but with an entirely different array of merchandise full of the bright colors and bloom of spring and then on to the celebrations and carefree days of summer.”

Shoppers descending on NRG Center for this second take on the ballet fundraiser will find 150 merchants eager to tempt with their goodies. Some 30 of those will be new to the market. Of course, the regulars will include the popular Round Top Collection and The Royal Standard with fresh merchandise saluting the warm weather seasons.

Among the newbies are Sarahjanes, Erma’s Closet, Houston’s own Atelier Aliénor with its handmade French espadrilles, and Houston’s Seeing Pink Elephants offering Midcentury barware. Summer-minded fashionistas won’t want to miss the fabulous handmade (Madagascar and Guatemala) hats and bags at Shebobo out of San Francisco.

Discount general admission tickets, $13,  go on sale at Ticketmaster.com on March 1 and at Randalls beginning March 11. Regular entry tickets are $15. Early Bird access tickets ($30) are available in advance by calling 713-535-3231.