Yes, I did check the dimmer control and even removed it and measured the resistance. The dimmer control works fine when the headlights are off. I also checked all of the fuses, both behind the coin holder and under the hood, and found that they are all fine.
I did notice that not only the instrument panel lights and needles go out when I turn on the headlights, but also all of the radio and climate control lights. A few of the indicator lamps actually do light when I turn on the headlights including the headlight indicator, door open, check engine, and oil. The gear indicator also lights on the instrument cluster but is dim, however the gear indicators near the shift lever are all dark. I will probably take it in next week to have it checked out since I cannot see a thing at night.