Nutcracker | Music Escape Room

(UPDATE 12/12/24- Please Re-download Puzzle #2!)

The Nutcracker is missing, and the ballet can't go on! Can your students solve the 12 puzzles, navigate the Land of Sweets and uncover the Nutcracker's location before the show begins?

Transform your students' holiday celebration into an unforgettable experience with our Nutcracker Music-themed Escape Room! This printable game includes 12 puzzle challenges to uncover a final secret code, making it a huge hit! Whether you're planning a holiday party, group lesson activity or music camp, the Nutcracker Escape Room is a creative way to review musical concepts.

The Nutcracker escape room game is designed to be easy to set up and play, with no props or complicated instructions required. (You are welcome to add in those things if you wish) Students can complete the puzzles individually or in small groups, making it a great adaptable activity.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? (see preview)

• Teacher directions
• Student directions and mission overview
• 12 puzzle challenges - light color or black & white options
  • Puzzle subjects covered: Nutcracker related words, Rhythm, Music Symbols, Note Patterns and Names, Music Instruments.
• Recording sheets (2 pages)
• Puzzle and recording sheet answers
• 12 Hint cards (if needed)
• 12 Intro Puzzle cards (optional)
• 30 Photo Prop posters (for both success and didn't quite make it)
• Google Form – Scan a QR code or click the link for students to enter the final code and reveal the final message. (optional)
• Congratulations video (available in google form OR as a separate mp4 if you prefer)

[86 pages plus google form and video (mp4)]

Gameplay: Approx 60 minutes (see FAQ below)

Ages: Approx. 7 – 12 (adaptable- see FAQ below)

Number of players: As many as you want!

Basic music skills are required (if someone is a brand-new beginner, make sure they are working with others who have some experience).

FAQ's

How long does this activity take to complete? It really depends on several things…. Estimated completion time is 60 minutes but it’s based on the students’ puzzle skills, group size, and ages. This gives an average of 5 minutes per puzzle. Some puzzles might take shorter or longer than others, depending on the puzzle. I recommend this escape room for ages 7-12 but this can be adaptable depending how you group students together. (My student groups are ts 7-18 years old. My groups are mixed ages and levels.) *If you feel your students will need more time OR less time, adjust accordingly. You know your students best!

How many students can play at once? Students can play individually, in small or in large groups. There really is no limit to the number of players. What if the students get stuck on one of the puzzles? First off, let them think for a bit! This is where critical thinking skills come in. If they get stuck, hint cards have been included in your download to guide them and provide examples.

Where do students start? Students can start on any puzzles and complete the puzzles in ANY order! This is helpful if you have divided students into multiple small groups. How do you know if their answers are correct? Answer keys are included!

How do I set up the activity? Just print and play! Everything you need is included in your download. You don’t need locks, envelopes, or special equipment. (Though you are welcome to add whatever you like) You can hang or hide the puzzles or just spread them out on a table.

Do I have to print out the game materials for every student? Nope! You ONLY have to print out the answer sheet for each student or group. Just one set of the actual puzzles (and optional QR code for the final step) is all you need!

Do I need to use the Google Form? No, this is just an option for students to input the final 4-digit code. But if you would rather, you can purchase a physical lock for them to open, I included a mp4 of the congratulations video.

Can I use this with online students? This is a printable escape room mission. However, saying that, I believe there is always a way to adapt. With my permission, you can send the puzzle PDF to your students (other teachers need to purchase their own license for their students) in advance. Make sure they print out the puzzles before your lesson. Then online, work together in the same way you would if they were with you in person.

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