HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The Nutcracker Market is one of Houston's most treasured holiday shopping traditions.
The four-day shopping event at the NRG Center beckons shoppers to a mecca of Christmas treasures and other deals by the sleigh full.
From clothes to jewelry to decor, The Nutcracker Market has it all under one roof and a portion of the sales benefit the Houston Ballet.
If you want to make the most of your shopping experience, here's a few tips trusted by veterans of the event:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ladies, kick off those heels and opt for those rubber soles. Tennis shoes are a great way to get around when shopping the market, and can offer you plenty of arch support.
What You Wear Matters
Some merchants may have long lines to dressing rooms. Some may not have a dressing room at all. Come to the Nutcracker Market dressed with the intention of trying garments on over your clothes.
How to Save Money on Tickets
You can save half off tickets during the last three hours the market is open each day. Meantime, if you are shopping the full day, pre-purchase your tickets at Randall's stores to save $2 a ticket.
If you plan to visit more than two days, buy a priority shopping ticket for $50. This ticket allows you to shop all four days the market is open, plus you can enter one hour early Thursday and Friday before the general public.
General admission tickets are available this year through Ticketmaster for $18, plus fees and surcharges. Tickets are $20 at the door.
Nutcracker Market Hours and Location
Thursday, Nov. 12 - Friday, Nov. 13, 10am to 8pm
Saturday, Nov. 14 - Sunday, Nov. 15, 10am to 6pm
The NRG Center is located at N Stadium Dr, Houston, TX 77054