The Weather in Boston in December

Updated: 24 enero 2024

This post is an overview of the December weather in Boston.

We include snow and precipitation forecasts, as well as tips on how to dress, and things to do.

As a retired meteorologist turned tour guide, I didn't expect that I would use my experience as a forecaster in my new career in tourism.

But here I am, finding myself answering more weather questions as a blogger than I ever did as a weatherman.

So, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the weather in Boston in December.

If you're visiting at the end of the month, look into weather in January too!


HOW COLD IS BOSTON IN DECEMBER?

December brings winter weather to Boston as the daily temperatures fall rapidly throughout this month.

Early in December, you can expect morning low temperatures in the mid-30s F (1 to 2 C).

However, by the end of the month lows will be in the mid-20s F (-3 to -4 C).

How Cold is Boston in December?

A couple of the colder mornings later in the month will see the temperature dip down into the mid-lower teens F (-10 to -11 C).

The record low temperature in Boston during December was -7F (-21.7 C)!

Afternoon high temperatures also will fall from the mid-40s F (7 to 8 C) early in the month to the upper 30s F (3 to 4 C) by New Year’s Eve.

A few of the warmer afternoons, early in December will produce afternoon highs in the upper 50s F (about 15 C).

The record high temperature in Boston during December was 76 F (24.4 C)!


HOW MUCH SUN AND PRECIPITATION?

About 16 days during December will be clear or at least partly sunny with 15 days on average being mostly cloudy.

How much Snow in Boston in December?

About 11-12 days will record at least .01 inches (0.25 mm) of precipitation, either rain or melted snow/ice but only 2-3 days will see heavy precipitation of 0.5 inches (13 mm) or more.


DOES IT SNOW IN BOSTON IN DECEMBER?

Snowfalls can vary a lot from year to year; however, the average December total snowfall is about 9 inches (23 cm).

The record monthly total snowfall was 27.9 inches (70.0 cm) set in 1970.

During December, you can expect at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of snow on about 2 days with 3 inches (8 cm) or more on one day.

Snowfalls of 5 inches (13 cm) or more occur about once every other year. Snow is most likely during the second half of the month.


Seasonal Outlook October to December 2024 Boston

There is an 80% chance for normal to above-normal temperatures with near-normal rainfall.


WHAT TO WEAR IN DECEMBER?

A light to medium jacket and sweater may be ok early in the month for those few warmer days.

However, as Christmas approaches, winter gear is a must, including a warm coat along with scarves, gloves, and perhaps boots for the snowy days.

What to Wear in Boston in December

Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes for the nicer days. 


WHAT TO DO IN BOSTON IN DECEMBER?

Below are the top 10 to do in December in Boston.

Be sure to read our full post on what to do in Boston in December.

It includes free things to do, night and family-friendly activities and attractions, as well as our definitive post on the best things to do in Boston.

And if you are planning on visiting many of Boston’s top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.

These passes could save you up to 50% of retail ticket prices for tours, attractions, and restaurants.

  1. See a holiday musical like White Christmas.
  2. Enjoy a major concert.
  3. Attend a Patriots, Celtics, or Bruins game.
  4. Explore the city on a walking tour.
  5. Take a holiday cruise in the harbor.
  6. Enjoy a holiday-themed concert.
  7. Take the kids to see Disney on Ice.
  8. Cheer on the runners or participate in the Jingle Bell Run.
  9. Celebrate New Year's Eve with fireworks and restaurant specials.
  10. Save money with a discount attraction pass

Be sure to check out all the top things to do in December in our main post.

Boston Travel Tips and Hacks

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Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services

About The Author

Fred Pickhardt

Fred is a marine meteorologist and sailed briefly with American Export Lines in the Far East trade. He has extensive experience in weather analysis, weather forecasting, and forensic weather event reconstructions. Fred founded Ocean Weather Services and currently provides forensic marine weather reports to the maritime industry.
Updated: enero 24th, 2024
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