Oaxaca in December
Great time to visit
Holiday season brings perfect weather and festive atmosphere, but also peak crowds and prices. The Radish Festival is wonderfully weird and uniquely Oaxacan, making this a memorable time to visit despite the expense.
Weather
December continues the excellent dry season conditions with pleasant warm days and genuinely cool nights. The air stays crisp and clear with virtually no rain. Holiday decorations mix with the golden colonial architecture beautifully.
25°C high7°C low2 rain days
Crowds & Cost
high crowds
~$90/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Festival de los Rábanos (Radish Festival)
- •Posadas celebrations
- •New Year's Eve in the zócalo
December Tips
- •The Radish Festival on December 23 draws massive crowds to the zócalo
- •Book Christmas and New Year's accommodations far ahead
- •Perfect weather for day trips to archaeological sites
All Months
October through April delivers perfect weather — warm days around 75°F, cool nights that actually require a light jacket. December and January see the most tourists, especially around Christmas and New Year's.
Día de los Muertos (November 1-2) transforms the city into Mexico's spiritual capital. Hotel prices triple, but the celebrations justify the cost. Book accommodations six months ahead.
March brings Guelaguetza rehearsals as communities prepare for July's big festival. You'll catch authentic performances without the crowds. Plus, jacaranda trees bloom purple throughout the city.
May through September is rainy season. Afternoon thunderstorms clear the air but can flood streets temporarily. Hotels offer their lowest rates, and you'll have attractions mostly to yourself.
Oaxaca Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
6/10
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