We may no longer hang mistletoe or roast chestnuts over an open fire, but there is one tradition that remains a Yuletide stalwart. Its iconic Tchaikovsky score, spectacular choreography, and costumes, as well as dazzling set design, marks the Alberta Ballet's Nutcracker as a firm festive favourite that's simply unmissable!

For over 50 years, the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers have brought the gifts of their heritage to Canadian shores as the country's only Ukrainian dance company. Given Tchaikovsky's time spent in the country and his founding of the Kiev Music Conservatory, it makes it all the more poignant that the outfit turned their talents to their very own rendition of the composer's cherished Nutcracker ballet, becoming a bonafide Edmonton Christmas tradition in the process.