Not So Tiny Nutcraker Display Returns to the History Center

Discover the magic of the holiday season with the History Center’s captivating nutcracker exhibit. Immerse yourself in a whimsical world of wonder where every intricately crafted nutcracker tells a unique story. Over 600 nutcrackers will be on display from November 30, 2024 - January 11, 2025, at the History Center, 1608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY.

The nutcracker display at Tiny’s Grill in Utica was a holiday tradition for over thirty years. In 1994, Joanne Gerace, the owner of the restaurant, bought one nutcracker and put him out in the restaurant. She thought he looked kind of lonely and bought another and another... and the rest, they say, is history. When Gerace sold the restaurant in 2023, the History Center asked her to keep them in mind as a place to display the collection to keep the tradition alive. Several months later a truck full of nutcrackers arrived.

“The nutcrackers have always been for the public to view. The History Center is an ideal place for the nutcrackers to be displayed and continue the tradition. I couldn’t be happier to have them displayed there,” said Gerace who has loaned her collection for a second year to continue this fun Utica tradition.

The History Center is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10-4, and closed for holidays on December 24 & 25.

Oneida County History Center is a private 501(c) (3) not-for-profit educational institution dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and culture of the Greater Mohawk Valley for present and future generations. Free for History Center members, $5.00 suggested admission for non-members. Please contact the History Center at 315-735-3642 or visit oneidacountyhistory.org for additional information.