The Nutcracker Returns to the Vilar
December 12–14, 2025!
​​Celebrate the magic of the season with this beloved holiday tradition!
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2 STARS abbreviated performances – Friday, December 12
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4 full-length productions – December 12–14
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Holiday fun in the lobby, including:
-A Silent Auction for fantastic finds
-The Nutcracker Boutique for unique gifts
-The Land of Sweets filled with tasty treats
And so much more!
Tickets go on sale in November!
About Vail Friends of Dance
Founded in 1984, Vail Friends of Dance (VFOD) is an Eagle County, Colorado nonprofit dedicated to developing, supporting, and inspiring young dancers and teachers from all backgrounds by providing accessible opportunities, equitable resources, and an inclusive environment that fosters artistic excellence.
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Our Mission-Driven Initiatives
The Nutcracker Ballet
Each year, VFOD presents the Nutcracker Ballet, showcasing local youth dancers in a full-length, world-class production that unites and inspires more than 2,000 community members in a beloved holiday tradition.
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Vail Youth Ballet Company
VFOD supports the Vail Youth Ballet Company by providing funding and support for scholarships, dancer education, and performance opportunities, ensuring local youth dancers have enriching opportunities year-round.
Community Events
VFOD enriches the Vail Valley by making dance accessible through free events and cherished traditions, inspiring creativity and ensuring the performing arts thrive across generations.
Our Signature Events
For over 40 years, Vail Friends of Dance has been a cornerstone of Eagle County’s cultural life, presenting cherished traditions that bring the community together through the art of dance.
Nutcracker Ballet
The VFOD Nutcracker Ballet is Eagle County’s only full-length, locally cast production, bringing together 2000 patrons from near and far each year to celebrate the magic of the arts and the spirit of the season. Learn More
Spring Showcase
The VFOD Spring Showcase is a special event designed for Vail Youth Ballet Company (VYBC) members to shine, giving dancers the opportunity to present their talent and original choreography in a series of completely spellbinding performances that celebrate their growth, creativity, and passion for dance.
Valentine's Ball
The Valentine's Ball is an inclusive celebration of dance and love, where kids and their favorite adults—Dads, Moms, Grandparents, Grandfriends, and more—share a magical night of music, movement, and unforgettable memories!
Artist Encounters
Free meet-and-greets and pop-ups with VYBC dancers in costume spark wonder and inspiration in Eagle County’s youngest aspiring dancers, giving them a magical, up-close experience that brings the world of ballet to life and plants the seeds for a lifelong love of dance.
Our Values and Why
Artistic Excellence
We are dedicated to fostering artistic excellence by supporting high-quality dance training, performances, and opportunities for rural dancers.
Community
We build a vibrant arts community by making dance accessible, fostering local talent, and bringing the community together through the joy of dance.
Youth Empowerment
We empower youth through exceptional dance education, mentorship, and performance opportunities that build confidence, discipline, and a love for the arts.