Looking for magical things to do in San Francisco? Ballet is one of the most impressive and beautiful performances you can experience live—and luckily, SF delivers in a big way. Whether you’re snagging Nutcracker tickets for a holiday tradition, dressing up for Cinderella, or swept away by the drama of Don Quixote, there’s nothing like watching a world-class Ballerina take the stage. From timeless classics to bold programs like Sumin Contemporary Ballet, the city’s ballet scene promises an unforgettable night out.
Smuin Ballet
Smuin Ballet was founded by Michael Smuin 30 years ago. The contemporary dance company has an American performance style that combines classical techniques. The company debuted to international acclaim, and the current Artistic Director, Celia Fushille, continued to create innovative performances. Upcoming shows include The Christmas Ballet and LGBTQ+ Night with Lady Camden.
Upcoming performances:
- Spring Point — (Feb 13 – 15, 2026)
- Annual Gala 2026 — (Mar 15, 2026
- The Afterparty — (Mar 15, 2026)
- Future Forward — (Apr 17 – May 17, 2026)
San Francisco Ballet
The SF Ballet is iconic for many reasons. It is the oldest professional ballet company in the United States, founded in 1933. The SF Ballet also launched the first full-length performance of the Nutcracker in the United States in 1944. This historic company continues to put on dazzling shows today. Performances are accompanied by a live orchestra and detailed costume and stage design to create the stunning performances.
Upcoming performances:
- 2026 Opening Night Gala — (Jan 14, 2026)
- The Blake Works — (Feb 27 – Mar 8, 2026)
- Don Quixote — (Mar 19 – Mar 29, 2026)
- La Sylphide — (Apr 10 – Apr 16, 2026)
- Mere Mortals — (Apr 24 – May 3, 2026)
Alonzo King LINES Ballet
Established in 1982 by Alonzo King, LINES continues using classic techniques while creating innovative performances. The dance company performs for over 50,000 people internationally every year. The company tours all over the world but calls San Francisco its home. In 2024, they will perform in collaboration with the SF Symphony.
Ballet of Lights
If you’re hunting for something magical to add to your San Francisco Things to do list, Ballet of Lights at the Brava Arts Center might just be it. This luminous twist on Sleeping Beauty blends classical ballet with glowing costumes and modern light effects that make every pirouette sparkle on stage. It’s a fresh, immersive way to fall in love with dance all over again—perfect for seasoned ballet fans and curious first-timers alike.
Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show - 4.24 · 220 reviews
City Ballet San Francisco
While City Ballet is a dance school rather than a company, they still do regular performances that show the talent of their dedicated pupils. The dance school aims to prepare students for professional ballet, and you can catch their performance of Nutcracker this holiday season.