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We're taking the stress out of date-planning, with 10 great pre-planned picks for how to spend an unforgettable evening in Philadelphia this season, such as dining at R2L for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Now that the days are shorter and the temperatures are (much) cooler, it’s tempting to stay inside with your significant other and cozy up by the fireplace. Or, you know, the radiator.

But then you’d miss out on the legion of exciting holiday festivities that are taking place throughout the entire region.

So get off the couch and make a date (or two or three) with the one you love to experience as many merry events as possible.

Here are our top 10 picks for winter date ideas this holiday season:

1. The Nutcracker
See George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker,” a true holiday classic, performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet at the Academy of Music, then enjoy the new theater prix-fixe menu at the Balcony at the DoubleTree directly across the street from the Academy.

2. HD Sugarplums
Catch the Comcast Holiday Spectacular, then head up to R2L at the tippy-top of Two Liberty Place for drinks, the dessert cart and a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. R2L won “Best Restaurant for a Last Date” in Philadelphia Magazine’s Best Of issue this summer, but we think it’s just as great a spot for a first (or 50th) date.

3. Macy’s & Milkboy
Watch the spectacular Macy’s Holiday Light Show in Center City, then grab a coffee after at MilkBoy, where you can also catch some live music upstairs.

4. Martinis On Ice
Ice skate at the Blue Cross RiverRink. Warm up with a hot cocoa or a Market St. Mocha martini at Continental Old City when you’re done.

5. Village Getaway
Drive up to Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, where a grand illumination of dazzling Christmas lights takes place. Check out their Gingerbread House competition and shop the many quaint stores in the village.

Numbers 6-10 are listed below.

6. Films & Fizz
Catch a holiday movie classic at the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, like “A Christmas Story” (December 17) or “It’s a Wonderful Life” (December 14). Then pop into Sly Fox Brewery to taste the newly-released Odyssey Imperial IPA (as of December 9).

7. Stag & Doe Nights On The Avenue
Stroll through Chestnut Hill during Stag & Doe Nights (every Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. in December), where one-of-a-kind shops will welcome you with gift ideas and refreshments. Enjoy the twinkling lights, the scent of fresh pine boughs and carolers throughout the Avenue. Then grab a late-night dinner at Tavern on the Hill, where they have a special “Nine after Nine” menu featuring nine complete late night suppers for only $9 after 9 p.m.

8. Caroling & Cocktails
Take in a little theatre with Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Walnut Street Theatre, which runs December 3-21. Treat yourself to a creative cocktail at The Farmer’s Cabinet a block away after the show.

9. Kids For A Day
Channel your inner child and visit Franklin Square (now open weekends through January 2). Enjoy festive holiday decorations, photos with Santa and holiday music. Ride the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel or play Philly Mini Golf. Try the new Candy Cane Shake (yum!) at SquareBurger.

10. Gorgeous Gardens
Two words: Longwood Gardens. An astounding array of flora and lights aside, it’s traditionally been a popular site for many holiday marriage proposals. Need we say more?

For all our coverage on celebrating the holidays in Philadelphia, click here.