Weather in Las Vegas 🇺🇸
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
13°C
Rain Days
3 days
Sun Hours
8 hrs
Humidity
65%
North America › 🇺🇸 United States › Las Vegas
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Las Vegas?
6/10
Good
December is a good time to visit Las Vegas (6/10). With 8 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Las Vegas. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak June without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Las Vegas's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
vs November:19°C avg high
The single most important thing to know about visiting Las Vegas in December: conditions are genuinely cooperative, with 13°C highs and only 3 wet days making this one of the more straightforward months to plan around. Precipitation totals 20mm for the month, spread across roughly 3 days, and 8 sunshine hours per day give you a reliable window for outdoor plans.
13°C
55°F
Avg High
4°C
39°F
Avg Low
3 days
20 mm total
Rain Days
8h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Las Vegas in December
The 9°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 13 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 55°F average high, 39°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Las Vegas in December
Morning4°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon13°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening7°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Las Vegas in December means dressing for 13°C days and 4°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 13°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 4°C, a modest 9°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Las Vegas. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in Las Vegas in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Las Vegas, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Las Vegas in December
Based on 13°C average highs and 3 rainy days
- Warm jacket (down or fleece)
- Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
- Sweaters and lined trousers
- Scarf and lightweight gloves
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Las Vegas in December
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 13°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 13°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months
Why is Las Vegas cool in December?
December in Las Vegas reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 13°C by day and 4°C overnight. The city sits at 36 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 9°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Las Vegas in December
In December, Las Vegas experiences average highs of 13°C (55°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F). Expect around 3 rainy days and 8 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 9°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Las Vegas typically sees 3 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 20mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Las Vegas typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Las Vegas in December. Temperatures can drop to 4°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Las Vegas. With 8 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 13°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Las Vegas in December is 13°C (55°F), and the average low is 4°C (39°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 9°C (47°F). The day-to-night range of 9°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Las Vegas is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 14 hours per day and only 1 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 37°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Las Vegas, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 8 sunshine hours and 3 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Las Vegas suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 13°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 8 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Las Vegas, with an average 8 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are May, June, and September. July is the hottest month (39°C avg high); December is the coolest (13°C). From here, temperatures rise 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 19°C high, 2 rain days), December is cooler and wetter. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C | 4°C | 4 | 9h | View |
| February | 17°C | 5°C | 5 | 9h | View |
| March | 21°C | 9°C | 3 | 11h | View |
| April | 26°C | 12°C | 2 | 12h | View |
| May | 31°C | 17°C | 1 | 13h | View |
| June | 37°C | 22°C | 1 | 14h | View |
| July | 39°C | 26°C | 2 | 14h | View |
| August | 38°C | 26°C | 2 | 13h | View |
| September | 34°C | 21°C | 1 | 12h | View |
| October | 27°C | 15°C | 2 | 11h | View |
| November | 19°C | 8°C | 2 | 9h | View |
| December | 13°C | 4°C | 3 | 8h | View |
January
4 rain days, 9h sun
14°4°
February
5 rain days, 9h sun
17°5°
March
3 rain days, 11h sun
21°9°
April
2 rain days, 12h sun
26°12°
May
1 rain days, 13h sun
31°17°
June
1 rain days, 14h sun
37°22°
July
2 rain days, 14h sun
39°26°
August
2 rain days, 13h sun
38°26°
September
1 rain days, 12h sun
34°21°
October
2 rain days, 11h sun
27°15°
November
2 rain days, 9h sun
19°8°
December
3 rain days, 8h sun
13°4°
Other Months in Las Vegas
Plan Your Trip to Las Vegas
Data Sources for Las Vegas
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.