2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Washington DC — December

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

👍 Climate Overview

December is a good time to visit Washington DC. Expect cold weather with temperatures around 9°C during the day. With only around 10 hours of daylight, plan outdoor activities earlier in the day. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds.

6.5
GoTripzi Score Good

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

9°C

Avg Low

0°C

Rainy days

9days

Daylight

9.5h

Feels like 6°C / -3°C — wind chill makes it feel cooler

Rainfall

111mm

Sunshine

6h/day

Humidity

67%

Humid
Sun Strength

2.8

Moderate
Wind

16 km/h (gusts 36)

Is December a good time to visit Washington DC?

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

Now

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Feels like --
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Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Value Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

07:20

Sunset

16:48

9.5h daylight

Visiting Washington DC in December: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Things to Do in December

Events & Festivals

🎊
National Christmas Tree Lighting
Early December (single evening ceremony) Holiday

Recommended for This Weather

☕ Cozy cafes & local food scene
🏛️ Indoor attractions & shopping
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Washington DC Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 7°C -1°C 9d (86mm) 6.3h
65% Humid
3.2 Moderate
Good
Feb 10°C 0°C 10d (86mm) 6.8h
62% Moderate
4.3 Moderate
Good
Mar 15°C 5°C 10d (88mm) 8.1h
58% Moderate
6.1 High
Good
Apr 20°C 9°C 10d (91mm) 9.2h
59% Moderate
7.4 Very High
Excellent
May 24°C 14°C 12d (100mm) 9.8h
66% Humid
8 Very High
Excellent
Jun 30°C 19°C 10d (107mm) 11.4h
65% Muggy
9 Very High
Good
Jul 32°C 23°C 13d (136mm) 11.9h
70% Muggy
8.9 Very High
Wet
Aug 30°C 21°C 10d (115mm) 10.4h
72% Muggy
7.7 Very High
Good
Sep 26°C 17°C 10d (93mm) 8.7h
73% Humid
6.2 High
Excellent
Oct 21°C 10°C 7d (70mm) 7.9h
71% Humid
4.9 Moderate
Excellent
Nov 15°C 5°C 7d (66mm) 7.4h
64% Moderate
3.8 Moderate
Good
Dec Current 9°C 0°C 9d (111mm) 6h
67% Humid
2.8 Moderate
Good

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4.3

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Washington DC – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Washington DC

National monuments with National Mall & Smithsonian museums, cherry blossoms, memorials, and political power center.

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What to Pack for December

Bundle up with a warm coat, scarf, and closed-toe shoes. Thermal layers underneath give flexibility as you move between indoors and outdoors. Pack a compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers.

Moderate Quiet

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📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Washington DC?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is December a good time to visit Washington DC?
December is typically good for visiting Washington DC, with average highs of 9°C and around 9 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Washington DC in December?
Yes, nights in Washington DC during December are cold, averaging 0°C. Pack warm layers, a coat, and consider thermal underwear for extended outdoor evenings. Restaurants and cafés have indoor seating, and many museums stay open late.
What should I pack for Washington DC in December?
With highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C in December, we recommend: Warm winter coat, Thermal base layers, Scarf and gloves, Compact umbrella. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Washington DC in December?
Washington DC typically sees around 9 rainy days in December. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
How many hours of daylight are there in Washington DC in December?
In December, Washington DC gets approximately 9.5 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is December peak season in Washington DC?
No, December is not peak season in Washington DC. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: America/New_York)

Last Updated: February 2026

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