Hartford in December
Not the best time
December wraps Hartford in winter's grip with cold temperatures and frequent snow. Holiday events provide indoor entertainment, but it's firmly off-season with the benefits and drawbacks that brings.
Weather
December brings full winter conditions with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. Snow becomes common, and you'll get those gray, overcast days that define New England winters. Holiday decorations around downtown provide some cheer against the bleak landscape.
4°C high-6°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$92/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Festival of Light at Constitution Plaza
- •Nutcracker Performances at Bushnell Theater
- •New Year's Eve First Night Hartford
December Tips
- •Downtown holiday decorations make evening walks worthwhile despite the cold
- •The Bushnell Theater's holiday shows provide warm, cultural entertainment
- •Hotel rates drop significantly except around New Year's Eve
All Months
May through October gives you Hartford at its best. Spring brings the tulips at Elizabeth Park — we're talking 15,000 bulbs creating one of New England's most impressive displays. Summer means outdoor concerts at Bushnell Park and the chance to actually enjoy walking around downtown. Fall is peak season for a reason — the foliage along the Connecticut River is spectacular, and October weather is perfect for exploring. Winter can be brutal, with lake-effect snow and temperatures that'll make you question your life choices. But here's the upside: hotel rates drop by 40% and you'll have museums like the Wadsworth Atheneum mostly to yourself. Avoid major insurance conferences in September and October when hotel prices spike and downtown gets crowded with suits.
Hartford Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
5/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
3/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
5/10
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