How to save money at the Nutcracker Market

HOUSTON – Most people who go to the Nutcracker Market plan to spend money. It is, after all, the Super Bowl of shopping.

But you can save some of that cash getting there.

Tickets are $20 at the door, but you can buy them in advance at Randall's for $18, and if you come three hours before closing any day of the show, tickets are only $10.

Hours:

Thursday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 
Friday, Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.  
Saturday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  
Sunday, Nov. 11 from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

Lyft is giving discounted rides to the market. Just use promo code "Nutcracker" to get a $10 ride credit.

Lyft will also help pick up your packages from the package pick-up area so you can get all of your loot home.

If you really have your eye on something, Sunday is the day you may try to haggle with vendors because they may not want to load all of that merchandise back up and they may be willing to lower their prices.

Patsy Chapman, Nutcracker Market CEO, said, "We don't advertise or the merchants don't have big clearance sales or discounts now ... but on Sunday, they may be willing to bargain with you. So don't hesitate to ask them if they're offering any Nutcracker Market specials."

If you don't like big crowds but you still want to shop, Sunday morning is your best bet. The doors open at 10 a.m. on Sunday, but they say it doesn't get crowded until about 1 p.m. on that last day inside NRG Center.

This won't save you money, but it will save you some time and stress. If you pay $50 at the door any day of the Market, you can get in with the early birds at 8:30 a.m.

You'll have an hour and a half of crowd-free shopping to get your Christmas on!


About the Author:

Passionate consumer advocate, mom of 3, addicted to coffee, hairspray and pastries.