This post is about the weather in DC in October, including what to expect with temperatures and rain, and tips on what to wear and things to do.
October is a great time to visit Washington, DC as the weather remains fairly warm but without any of the heat waves that are typical of summer months.
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 some frequently asked questions about the weather in DC in October.
- Average Temperatures
- How Much Sun and Rain
- What to Wear
- Things to Do in October
- Seasonal Outlook
- Free Tours a pie
IS IT COLD IN DC IN OCTOBER?
Early in the month, you can expect warm temperatures during the daytime to reach the low to mid 70s F (about 23 C) and occasionally into the 80s F (about 29 C).
Early morning lows are mostly in the mid-50s F (about 13 C).
Towards the end of this month, the afternoon temperatures are more likely to be in the mid to upper 60s F (about 19 C).
HOW MUCH DOES IT RAIN IN OCTOBER
Skies will be sunny or partly sunny on about 19 days during the month with cloudy conditions prevailing on about 12 days.
Some rain can be expected on about 7 or 8 days this month, however, heavier rainfalls of 0.5 inches (about 13mm) or more occur only on 2 or 3 days.
Seasonal Outlook - October to December 2024 Washington DC
There is a 78% chance for normal to above-normal temperatures and near-normal precipitation.
WHAT TO WEAR IN OCTOBER IN DC
Be sure to read our post on What to Wear and Pack in DC for advice all year round on DC weather and how to prepare for it.
Bring a sweater for the cooler days towards the end of this month and a light or medium-weight jacket for the cooler evenings.
Don’t forget to pack some comfortable walking shoes and join us on our popular National Mall Tour or our Lincoln Assassination Tour.
WHAT TO DO IN DC IN OCTOBER?
Below are 10 top things to do in DC in October.
Be sure to read our full post on what to do in DC in October.
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 DC.
If you are planning on visiting many of DC’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.
- Taste of DC
- Fall Wine Festival at Mount Vernon
- Tour the October House
- Take a Ghost Tour
- Attend Soul Stroll at Congressional Cemetery
- 17th Street High Heel Race
- Dupont Circle Halloween Bar Crawl
- Vintage Game Night at Woodrow Wilson House
- Boo at the National Zoo
- Fall Harvest Family Days at Mount Vernon
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in October in our main post.