Getting into the holidays can sometimes be a bit of a challenge when you live in the desert. No snow, warm weather, and sunny days – sounds awful, I know right. Just kidding! But it can make it harder to feel like it’s winter and get into that true holiday spirit. These are some of my favorite date night spots around the Valley for you and that special someone to find the magic and mistletoe this holiday season.

Phoenix Zoo Lights

Come see your favorite animals in a whole new light, holiday lights that is. As a true holiday classic in the Valley, the Phoenix Zoo Lights is a must visit. Sip on some yummy hot cocoa and enjoy the light show as you walk through the zoo to the glow garden.

Just a five-minute drive from Camden Tempe and Camden Sotelo makes this an easy last-minute date idea. Open seven nights a week November 27 through January 12 from 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online for a $5 discount!

Pratt Brothers Christmas at Rawhide

The biggest celebration of Christmas in Arizona, the Pratt Brothers have created a magical experience featuring over 7 MILLION sparkling lights and a Gingerbread House Light Show. Grab some festive food and drinks, take a ride on the Holiday Express Train, and watch the Christmas Parade before you curl up at the fire pits for some smores or cookie decorating and a live show with your special someone! As a bonus you can cross your Christmas shopping off your to-do list with local merchants offering gifts, treats, and sweets for sale.

Open from November 29 to December 29 just 20 minutes from Camden Chandler and Camden Pecos Ranch. *Note: You must purchase tickets in advance online, GA or VIP*

Photo courtesy of Jenna Neufeld

Christmas at the Fairmount Princess – Chateau Champagne Well known in the Scottsdale area the Fairmount Princess is an Arizona holiday must-do. This year they have launched a new date night experience, Chateau Champagne.

Located just seven minutes from Camden North End and Camden Foothills you won’t want to miss out on this incredible experience.

Following a candlelit path, you can book a semi-private fire pit with add-ons to choose from including: your own champagne bottle, shellfish tower and an artisanal s'mores board. Included with your booking is complementary ice skating, valet parking, and access to the luxury bar as well as wristbands into the rest of Christmas at the Princess.

Reservations are available from November 22 through January 4 and must be pre-booked online.

Photo courtesy of Pexels by Nadin S.

Chandler Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights

Grab your sweetheart and keep December 7 open in your calendar! Downtown Chandler is hosting a tree lighting in true Arizonian style, by lighting a tree made of tumbleweeds! Grab some dinner at one of Chandler's many restaurant options before heading to enjoy the festivities. Watch Chandler light their town tree from 4:30 pm - 9:00 pm with the Parade of Lights starting at 6:45 pm! This is a free event, so stay as little or as long as you’d like to enjoy the festivities!

There is no shortage of fun things for you and your partner to get into this holiday season around the Valley. This is a perfect time to make some memories and traditions that will last years to come.

If you’re a Camden resident, don’t forget to post your holiday activity suggestions on your MyCamden community wall to share the spirit!

Happy Holidays, we are glad you are choosing to spend it with Camden!