Ottawa Weather in December
December Climate Overview
Full winter conditions settle in with continuous snow cover by mid-December. The shortest days of the year (only ~8.5 hours of daylight) are brightened by Christmas Lights Across Canada illuminating Parliament Hill. The holiday season dominates the cultural calendar.
Source: Environment Canada Climate Normals 1991–2020 (Ottawa City station)
What to Expect
- Full winter conditions with continuous snow cover
- Shortest days of the year (~8.5 hours daylight at solstice)
- Christmas Lights Across Canada transforms Parliament Hill
- Holiday season dominates cultural calendar
Things to Do in December
- Christmas Lights Across Canada: hundreds of thousands of lights on Parliament Hill
- Holiday markets at Sparks Street and ByWard Market
- Ottawa Senators hockey games
- Cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park (if snow allows)
- Skating at Lansdowne, TD Place, and Rideau Hall rink
- New Year's Eve at Parliament Hill — fireworks at midnight
What to Wear
Weather Tips for Visitors
- !Christmas lights show runs nightly — best viewed 5:00-9:00 PM
- !Dress for -15 to -20 °C when attending outdoor evening events
- !Holiday travel: Ottawa roads can have significant snow/ice
- !Hotel prices spike over Christmas and New Year's — book in advance
Seasonal Highlights
- Christmas Lights Across Canada — one of Canada's most spectacular free displays
- New Year's Eve at Parliament Hill — fireworks at midnight
- Holiday markets and cultural programming citywide
December in Ottawa — FAQ
What is the weather like in Ottawa in December?
December in Ottawa has an average high of -1.5°C and low of -8.7°C. Full winter conditions settle in with continuous snow cover by mid-December. The shortest days of the year (only ~8.5 hours of daylight) are brightened by Christmas Lights Across Canada illuminating Parliament Hill. The holiday season dominates the cultural calendar.
What should I wear in Ottawa in December?
For December in Ottawa (-1.5°C avg high), pack: Full heavy winter kit: insulated parka, wool base layers, Waterproof winter boots rated -30 °C, Mittens, hat over ears, neck gaiter, Hand warmers for outdoor events, Reflective or bright outerwear (dark by 4:15 PM). Christmas lights show runs nightly — best viewed 5:00-9:00 PM
Is December a good time to visit Ottawa?
December is cold in Ottawa with 83 hours of sunshine. Expect about 43 cm of snow. Top activities include: Christmas Lights Across Canada: hundreds of thousands of lights on Parliament Hill; Holiday markets at Sparks Street and ByWard Market; Ottawa Senators hockey games.
Does it snow in Ottawa in December?
Yes, Ottawa receives an average of 43 cm of snow in December. 74 mm of total precipitation is expected.
What events happen in Ottawa in December?
Key events in December: Christmas Lights Across Canada — one of Canada's most spectacular free displays. New Year's Eve at Parliament Hill — fireworks at midnight. Holiday markets and cultural programming citywide. Christmas Lights Across Canada & NYE.
