Washington in December

Outside the best window (Apr–May, Sep–Oct). Across United States: Holiday lights in New York, ski season opens; flights and hotels peak around Christmas and New Year.

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• AprilGreatInside Washington's best window: Apr–May, Sep–Oct.
• MayGreatInside Washington's best window: Apr–May, Sep–Oct.
• SeptemberGreatInside Washington's best window: Apr–May, Sep–Oct.
• OctoberGreatInside Washington's best window: Apr–May, Sep–Oct.

• WashingtonHighs around 14 °C (57 °F), lows around 2 °C (36 °F), rain on about 8 daysHighs around 57 °F (14 °C), lows around 36 °F (2 °C), rain on about 8 days
• Northeast, United States · New York, Boston, Washington, Philadelphia, Mainecool

  Cold, sometimes snowy winters; humid 30 °C (86 °F)+ spells in July–August; late September to October is the pick for foliage and walking.Cold, sometimes snowy winters; humid 86 °F (30 °C)+ spells in July–August; late September to October is the pick for foliage and walking.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Christmas Day big impact

  25 Dec · United States

  Most businesses closed; flights full from about 20 Dec to 2 Jan.

Crowds · United States overall

High

Prices · United States overall

High

United States overall: Holiday lights in New York, ski season opens; flights and hotels peak around Christmas and New Year.

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in Washington, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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