Philadelphia in December
Good time to visit
December transforms Philadelphia into a winter wonderland with holiday markets and decorations throughout Center City. The cold weather limits outdoor activities, but the festive atmosphere and moderate crowds make it surprisingly appealing for a winter visit.
Weather
December brings winter's chill to Philadelphia with temperatures steadily dropping toward freezing. Snow is possible but not guaranteed. Gray, overcast days dominate, though holiday decorations around Rittenhouse Square brighten the mood considerably.
7°C high-1°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$160/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas Village at Love Park
- •New Year's Eve fireworks
- •Nutcracker performances
December Tips
- •Holiday decorations make evening strolls around Center City magical
- •Many restaurants offer special holiday menus
- •Book New Year's Eve accommodations well ahead - prices spike
All Months
Spring hits Philadelphia perfectly. April and May bring mild temperatures in the 60s-70s and blooming cherry blossoms around the city. The crowds haven't arrived yet, and hotel prices stay reasonable. Summer gets hot and humid — July averages 85°F with sticky air that makes walking around Old City feel like a slog. But the outdoor festivals and concerts make up for the sweat. The Made in America festival takes over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway each September. Fall delivers the best weather. September and October offer crisp days perfect for walking the city, plus the changing leaves in Fairmount Park create actual scenery. Winter? It's cold and gray, but hotel prices drop 30-40%. The Christmas markets and holiday decorations downtown create some charm, and you'll have the museums mostly to yourself. Just pack layers — January temperatures hover around 40°F during the day, dropping to the 20s at night.
Philadelphia Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
6/10
Families
9/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
7/10
Luxury
6/10
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