New Orleans in December
Great time to visit
December transforms New Orleans into a surprisingly cozy winter destination. Cool weather makes walking pleasant, holiday decorations add charm, but expect crowds and higher prices as winter visitors arrive.
Weather
December brings mild 70-degree days and genuinely cool 45-degree nights that might require actual jackets. Humidity stays low and rain is infrequent. Some years see brief cold snaps that shock the subtropical system.
21°C high7°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
high crowds
~$240/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas festivities
- •Celebration in the Oaks
- •New Year's Eve
- •Reveillon dinners
December Tips
- •Reveillon dinner reservations open months ahead at places like Commander's Palace
- •Celebration in the Oaks in City Park is worth the tourist crowds
- •New Year's Eve on Bourbon Street is amateur hour - locals celebrate in the Marigny
All Months
October through April gives you the sweet spot—mild temperatures, lower humidity, and festival season in full swing. December and January can surprise you with 40-degree mornings, but afternoons warm up nicely.
Mardi Gras season (January through Fat Tuesday) is pure chaos. Hotel rates triple, crowds multiply, and the city basically shuts down for two weeks of parades and parties. Book six months ahead or stay home.
Jazz Fest in late April/early May brings legendary performers to the Fair Grounds. Two weekends of music, food, and crafts under (hopefully) perfect spring skies. Again, book early—the whole city fills up.
Summer means sweat. Temperatures hit 90s with humidity that makes breathing feel like work. But hotel rates drop by half, and you'll have restaurants to yourself. Just plan indoor activities between 11 AM and 4 PM.
Hurricane season runs June through November, peaking in August and September. Most storms miss the city, but when they don't, everything shuts down. Travel insurance becomes your best friend.
New Orleans Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
9/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
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