Palm Springs deal: Christmas package at Riviera comes with a three-course dinner

If you’re longing for a pre-fab Christmas, the Riviera Palm Springs might be the ticket. The resort offers Christmas lights on a decorated tree in the lobby, carolers on Christmas Eve, an appearance by Santa at special dinners -- and a great holiday room deal. Now that’s easy.

The deal: The Christmas Package includes a room and a three-course meal for two in the hotel’s Circa 59 restaurant. Package prices start at $257 plus tax and fees. Dinner reservations must be made in advance for dining between 4 and 6 p.m. Dec. 24 and 6 to 11 p.m. Dec. 25 and 26. Children 4 to 12 years old can be added to your dinner plans for $19 each.

There’s more to do at this midcentury hotel than just eat. The 406-room Riviera, on 26 acres, got a glam makeover two years ago, so take time to lounge around the pools or indulge at the spa. After all, this is the perfect-temperature time of year to visit Palm Springs.

When: Good for stays Dec. 24 through Dec. 26.

Tested: I checked online Thursday and found a room with two queen beds available for Christmas Eve for $257; the total with tax and fees came to $320. (You can take a peek at the menu online and decide what to order. Note that drinks are extra.)

Here’s how the savings stack up: The best available rate for the same room/same night and two dinners would cost $303 plus tax and fees.

Contact: Riviera Palm Springs, (866) 588-8311