The festive season is getting turned up a little bit with the resort’s illuminated display.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is hosting its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration and Community Fundraiser from 5 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 8.

‘Tis be a delightful time at the resort this year.

Aside from the lighting of the tree, this year brings a warm welcome by the resort’s Ranger Ainsley Labrador retriever, photos with Santa Claus, great live music from the Tucson Boys Chorus, a snow machine creating a flurry, a DIY stuffed animal workshop at the “Recruit A Ranger” station, complimentary drinks and more.

One of the sweetest things of all is the unveiling of the Ritz-Carlton’s sugary sweet holiday lobby display. In previous years they’ve created 18-foot tall Gingerbread Chalet made with 1,900 pounds of flour, 4,000 egg whites, 1,390 pounds of powdered sugar, 20 gallons of honey, 35 gallons of molasses, and 88 pounds of ginger powder.

Tickets to the celebration are $5 per person and most of the proceeds will be donated to the Arizona chapter of Canine Companions for Independence.

Everyone is also encouraged to bring along canned goods for the Marana Community Food Bank, and an unwrapped new toy for Toys for Tots. It is the season of giving, after all.

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain is located at 15000 N. Secret Springs Dr., Marana, AZ 85658. For more information, visit the Ritz-Carlton’s Facebook event page.