The Balanchine "Nutcracker" has an exclusive pedigree only seven ballet companies are licensed to perform it world-wide, and it must be executed precisely as the famed choreographer wanted it.

WSJ: Nutcracker Inc.

The custom of selecting an official holiday theme began in the 1960s when First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy created a nutcracker-themed Christmas for her daughter Caroline.

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And as a little bit of a history lesson, the custom of selecting an official holiday theme began in the 1960s when First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy created a nutcracker-themed Christmas for her daughter Caroline.

WHITEHOUSE: First Lady Previews the 2012 White House Holiday Decorations | The White House