In Houston, the official start to the holiday season is the Houston Ballet's Nutcracker Market. For 43 years, Houstonians have shopped 'till they dropped looking for the best gifts, food items, and decor. With nearly 300 merchants on hand, including 30 new vendors this season, there is something for everyone at the four-day shopping extravaganza.
In 2022, 88,000 shoppers collectively dropped a cool $20.7 million across all four days, making the total of contributions to the Houston Ballet more than $85.5 million since the market's inception. The funds help with scholarships and expose nearly 90,000 Houston-area children to ballet through the Academy's Education and Community Engagement programs.
"I'm so excited for this opportunity to get out, shop, and soak in the festive atmosphere of Nutcracker Market," said Houston Ballet chief development officer Angie Lane. "I don't think most people realize its tremendous impact beyond a magical shopping experience. Funds raised from this event underwrite Houston Ballet's ability to offer many community programs — largely free of charge — and scholarship opportunities that give aspiring dancers the ability to pursue the beautiful art that is dance."
There will be lines for the iconic Donne Di Domani marinara sauce (booth 921), and the Round Top Collection (booth 900) area will be bustling, but we all know why we all made the trek to NRG Park – the fun fashion finds. We've rounded up some of the can't-miss clothing, accessories and jewelry. So, carb-load, hydrate, and wear comfortable shoes for the biggest shopping experience of the season.
Can't miss clothing
Franco's Boutique brings its colorful California Western style with it. Check out their booth for plenty of fringe, ruffled tops, floral prints, and matching sets.
Those with a modern yet boho aesthetic will love Punchy's. The shop's cute shackets, lounge sets, and fun prints make the perfect gifts.
Boasting "over the top" fashion and gifts, The Crooked Antler is ideal for those who like turning heads with bold patterns. Dogs, flowers, and tigers are just a few of the prints available from this fun store.
Is it really the Nutcracker Market if Houston's favorite Pomp and Circumstance doesn't make an appearance? Check out their lineup of contemporary clothing.
Must-have accessories
Get ready for rodeo season with Black Market Boots. The shop specializes in Old Gringo Boots, including Double D, Yippee Ki Yay, and Benchmark & Traditions.
My Maria Victoria is the place for the iconic Mexico-inspired handwoven bag seen everywhere the past few seasons. The shop also features great bag accessories and stocking stuffers.
Best jewelry finds
Everyone loves to give and receive jewelry, and Kinsley Armelle is a great place to stock up on all-natural, semi-precious jewelry. Go ahead and add to those bracelet stacks.
New this year, Dawn & Dusk offers fun, demi-fine trendy jewelry. Think serpent earrings, enamel studs, and stackable necklaces.
Mirta Tummino features stunning, handcrafted, colorful jewelry made from semi-precious stones. Made to withstand the test of time, each piece is versatile enough to be worn for day or night.
We can't get enough of Taylor and Tessier's Flower Power earrings and necklaces. They add a pop of color to any outfit and make a great gift for someone special or yourself.
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Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market; November 9 to November 12. Tickets and event information available here.
Select runway couture and past collection pieces headline Chloe Dao’s 25-Year Anniversary Clean-Out Event.Photo courtesy of Chloe Dao