Season is upon us in the Coachella Valley which means it is almost time for Thanksgiving. There are many reasons to celebrate Thanksgiving in the desert. Read on to discover five good ones.
1. Tantalizing Restaurants for Thanksgiving Dinner
According to National Restaurant Association research, 14 million people eat out for Thanksgiving dinner. If that includes you and your family, the good news is there are plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from to celebrate your Thanksgiving in the desert. Below is just a sampling. Be sure to make your reservations early.
Spencer’s
Palm Spring’s Spencer’s Restaurant is offering a 3-course dinner from 12:00pm to 8:00pm on Thanksgiving Day. In addition to the traditional Tom Turkey, find Slow Roasted Prime Rib, New Zealand Whole Rack of Lamb and Grilled King Salmon on the menu. Reserve tables in their newly expanded dining room or award-winning patio.
Tropicale
The always delightful Tropicale Restaurant, also in Palm Springs, is serving a 3-course turkey dinner featuring Herb-Roasted Mary’s Organic Turkey. Fixings include Sausage, Sage and Apple Dressing, Whipped Potatoes and Gravy, Buttered Brussel Sprouts and Cranberry Pear Chutney. Of course, there will be pumpkin pie for dessert. Open on Thanksgiving from 3:30pm to 8:30pm.
Cuistot
For a French take on Thanksgiving, try Cuistot in Palm Desert. Presenting a 4-course dinner with a choice of Free-Range Roast Turkey, English Cut New York Sirloin of Beef, Grilled Seasonal Seabass or Fresh Handmade Vegetable Ravioli for the main course. If you would rather eat at home but don’t want to cook, Chef Bernard is preparing a family-style dinner to go. Seatings are from 1:00pm to 8:00pm.
Si Bon
Si Bon, a charming European Bistro in Rancho Mirage, is offering a special Thanksgiving menu along with some of their favorites off the regular menu. Entrees feature Roasted Diestel Turkey, Pan-Fried Filet of Soul and Angus Prime Rib. Kiddos will enjoy the Turkey Melt Waffle Sandwich, Farfalle Pasta Bolognese or Mac n’ Cheese. A family-style dinner is also available for takeout.
Arnold Palmer’s
Named after a true golf legend, Arnold Palmer’s in La Quinta is serving a 3-course dinner on Thanksgiving. Start with the Coachella Date and Bacon Skewers or Arnie’s Chopped BLT Salad. Main courses include Oven Roasted Free Range Turkey, Kelleher Cabernet Braised Short Rib, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Herb Roasted Scottish Salmon and Arnie’s Famous Meatloaf. Finish the meal with one of their scrumptious desserts.
2. Thanksgiving in the Desert Includes Turkey Trots
Did you know the average American will consume between 3,000 and 4,500 on Thanksgiving. That’s a lot! Get a head start on burning those calories by participating in a Turkey Trot. Not only is it great exercise, but it is also a way to give back to the community.
The 16th Annual Fortem Finanancial Thanksgiving Day 5K benefits Martha’s Village and Kitchen. This worthwhile charity serves the homeless and impoverished through their life-changing programs. The race takes off at 8:00am down El Paseo in Palm Desert. Event attractions include a Kid’s Zone, Beer Garden and a Festival Row featuring booths and a doggie refreshment station.
A portion of all proceeds from the Palm Springs Wild Turkey Trot 5K supports the Mizell Center’s Meals on Wheels program. This trot promises to bring you more bling than any other. Rumor has it that Santa Claus might be making an appearance. The race starts at the corner of Tahquitz and Palm Canyon and finishes in downtown Palm Springs. Start time is 8:00am.
3. You Can Hit the Links on Thanksgiving
The Coachella Valley is known for golf and boasts 124 golf courses. Many of these courses are at private country clubs, but there are three fantastic public courses open on Thanksgiving Day.
Desert Willow Golf Resort offers 36 holes of award-winning golf in Palm Desert. The Firecliff Course challenges your skills with natural hazards and myriad water features. If you are looking for a more relaxing round of golf, then the Mountain View Course is for you.
SilverRock’s Arnold Palmer Classic Course in La Quinta is set against the gorgeous Santa Rosa Mountains. It sprawls over 200 acres and is a challenging 7,239 yards. Previously, it was a home course of the Bob Hope Classic.
Indian Well’s Golf Resort is home to both the Celebrity Course and the Players Course, also known as the “Beauty and the Beast.” Enjoy jaw-dropping views and amazing golf in Indian Wells.
4. WildLights at the Living Desert
WildLights at The Living Desert is a magical land of twinkling lights. Take an illuminated journey through the zoo and revel in awe-inspiring displays sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Visit Santa for a complimentary picture, savor themed treats and drinks, and ride the colorful carousel. Opening weekend just happens to coincide with Thanksgiving. Stroll through this winter wonderland and make memories with family and friends.
5. Thanksgiving in the Desert Has Incredible Weather and Hiking
While much of the country will be battling cold wintery weather over Thanksgiving, the average temperature in the desert is a balmy 78 degrees in November. If you can’t make one of the Turkey Trots because sleeping in is on the schedule, you can still burn those calories with an energizing hike. Try one of the hikes listed below:
No matter where you will be spending your Thanksgiving, Cooper and I wish you a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, good food, love and laughter.
If you’re heading to the upper desert this holiday season, make sure to check out my blog on the incredible Pioneertown.