Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Nutcracker in the Castle at The Paine
Step into the enchanting world of the Nutcracker fairytale at The Paine's historic mansion. Explore elaborately decorated rooms that reveal each chapter of Clara's adventure, from the grand opening party to the magical Land of Sweets. Experience the magic through self-guided tours, captivating guided tours featuring live ballet performances, or atmospheric candlelight tours.
What to Expect
Nutcracker fairytale brought to life in a historic mansion
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Visitors may park in the parking lot on Algoma Boulevard located next to the Paine Mansion, which offers accessible parking spaces and a drop-off area near the entrance gate. Additional parking with accessible spaces is available in a second lot along Congress Avenue, at the Sugar Plum Fairy’s Cupcake Café. Visitors may also park along the street on Algoma Boulevard, Congress Avenue, and Elmwood Avenue.
- Accessibility: All tours and the Cupcake Café are wheelchair accessible. The mansion has an elevator for the second floor, however, a portion of the second floor is not wheelchair accessible. Large wheelchairs may not fit through some doorways; The Paine has wheelchairs available that fit through all doorways. Wheelchairs are available at the Mansion’s reception desk, and the Mansion and Conservatory are wheelchair-accessible. Sensory-friendly tours are offered.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Other Christmas Events Near Oshkosh
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, fans of the nutcracker
Vibe
Magical, enchanting, festive, classic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Proceeds support Valley Academy programs and student dance education.
- Aspiring young dancers can experience a free ballet class.
- Members receive free reservations for self-guided and candlelight tours, and discounts on guided tours.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 hour per tour
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Valley Academy for the Arts
Organizer
Paine Art Center and Gardens
Food & Drink
Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café available on-site; punch and cookies served during guided tours.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book reservations in advance, especially for guided and candlelight tours, as they are often required and recommended.
- Arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled tour time if you plan to visit the Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café beforehand.
- Consider an umbrella stroller for younger children, as large strollers are not permitted inside the mansion.
- Amateur photography is welcome, but please refrain from using flash to preserve the atmosphere and respect other visitors.
- Check the Paine's website or Facebook page for weather-related updates, as they only close during extreme conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the tour types?
Guided tours feature live ballet performances and a host, self-guided tours allow you to explore at your own pace with oversized storybooks, and candlelight tours are self-guided evening tours.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Reservations are required for guided tours, candlelight tours, and Kids Free Days. They are recommended for self-guided tours.
Can I take photos during my visit?
Yes, amateur photography is allowed without flash. Professional photography or photo shoots require a permit requested two weeks in advance.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, all tours and the Cupcake Café are wheelchair accessible. An elevator is available for the second floor, though some areas may have limited accessibility. The Paine also provides wheelchairs.
When is the Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Café open?
The café is typically open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It's best to confirm café hours in advance and coordinate with your tour reservation.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.