Taos in December
Not the best time
December has winter charm if you're into Christmas magic and don't mind bundling up. The farolitos and luminarias make it worth the cold.
Weather
December brings real winter with snow that usually sticks around. Days are short and cold, though the high altitude sunshine can make afternoons pleasant. Christmas brings a magical quality to the adobe buildings dusted with snow.
4°C high-8°C low4 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$110/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Las Posadas Christmas celebrations
- •Farolito tours
- •Christmas at Taos Pueblo
December Tips
- •Book early for Christmas week - it gets surprisingly busy
- •The farolito tours on Christmas Eve are genuinely magical
- •Many places close between Christmas and New Year
All Months
April through June gives you the sweet spot - mild days, cool nights, and fewer crowds than summer. The cottonwoods leaf out in late April, turning the valley green against red rock cliffs. September and October bring perfect hiking weather and golden aspens in the high country. Summer (July-August) is peak season for good reason: galleries host major exhibitions, and the high elevation keeps temperatures comfortable even when it's blazing in lower elevations. But expect crowds and higher prices. Winter divides into two camps: ski enthusiasts love December through March when Taos Ski Valley gets deep powder, while others find the town too quiet and some restaurants closed. Spring can be windy with unpredictable weather, but you'll have the place mostly to yourself. Avoid late March and early November - these shoulder seasons offer the worst of both worlds with iffy weather and limited services.
Taos Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
7/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
7/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
5/10
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