For those that are searching for a destination to enjoy a white Christmas, the weather in December in Washington DC may very well deliver.
The temperature truly starts to fall in December, welcoming the onset of the freezing conditions of winter. Which means that snow on the big day itself is very much a possibility.
Over the course of the month, average temperatures usually remain at around 5°C, with average low temperatures of 0°C. However temperatures have dropped as low as -15°C at this time of the year, making a white powder coating on December 25th a dream come true.
At the beginning of the month, conditions are still more likely to reflect the autumn climate rather than that of winter. But by the end of December expect bright, crisp days and cool nights, with a cool wind which usually makes the temperature feel a lot lower than the statistics may suggest.
Rain is expected on approximately 11 days of the year. But with only 80mm of precipitation forecast for the whole of the month, most rain will come in the form of light showers. However, it is expected that some of that rain will convert into snow for at least a very fine covering.
If you are going to Washington DC in December, a few light layers are always worth packing. Average high temperatures in the day will usually reach up to 9°C. However in December 1998, the thermometer reached a staggering 26°C, proving that some extremely warm weather is always a possibility.
Even when the forecast is for rain, there will be some opportunity to enjoy some fine weather. An average of 4 hours of daily sunshine are expected throughout December in Washington DC. This ensures that, even in winter, the capital's weather still has a lot to offer.
Where to Stay
Even on the coldest December days, there is always a very warm welcome at the Mandarin Oriental. From the minute you step into the lavish lobby, you will realise that this boutique hotel offers something unique. From the incredible décor to the attentiveness of the staff, the Mandarin Oriental brings a whole new meaning to the word luxury. The rooms are large and spacious, opt for a room overlooking the Washington Memorial for the most impressive sights. With a warm indoor pool to keep those winter chills at bay, the Mandarin Oriental offers the ultimate hotel experience.
The Cardozo Guest House is a favourite with both Americans and International tourists. The house is in a secluded part of town which, in December, is usually very peaceful. Enjoy the larger open plan areas and the view over the street. No food is served in the guest house, but there are several nice restaurants, bars and clubs within walking distance of the accommodation and the metro line is situated just two blocks away. The check in is remote, so you won't even be bothered by the owners who are only on site on a part time basis. It is the perfect way to enjoy independent accommodation in the capital and appreciate what living in the city could be like.
The Capital View Hostel is the ideal destination for those that like a quieter form of hostelling. Rather than being in the heart of all the pubs and clubs, this hostel is situated in a quiet area of town, and the ambience inside reflects this. The rooms are spacious and very clean, while the laid back attitude means everyone is considerate of noise levels. It is not the biggest hostel in the capital and therefore has a much more intimate, friendly nature. Metro stations, shops and restaurants are all close by, with just a 10 minute walk to Union Station. For those that want the perfect balance between great value for money without the all-night hostel lifestyle, the Capital View will deliver.
Restaurants and Nightlife
For a great atmosphere, great drinks and a lot of friendly faces in Washington DC, the Board Room DC is a unique opportunity for some fun. People will sit for hours with their friends or complete strangers playing the range of board games laid out on the tables. With a wealth of speciality beers and draught lines available, it's not just the gaming that draws people to this unusual hang out. The cocktails are blended beautifully and the prices are all reasonable. There is no food served in the bar, but the local café will deliver directly to your table. It's unique, it's friendly, it's lots of fun and is a great place to go on a cold December night.
When it comes to high quality food with amazing flavour, you can't get better than Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab. As the name suggests, surf and turf are the specialities at this very popular Washington DC restaurant. The Stone Crab appetizer is as good as everyone says it is. When it comes to the mains, everything from the scallops and seafood platter to the New York strip steak are equally mouth-watering. There is even a gluten free menu for those that are intolerant. Just make sure you leave some room for desert, the peanut butter pie is delicious.
The Rosebar Lounge is a great place to come any night of the year, but on New Year's Eve, it's the perfect place to be. In December the dancefloor is always busy, while the music keeps pumping well into the night. With the drinks blended as perfectly as the tunes, it's a great place to come with friends or enjoy a more intimate evening with your other half. The bar staff are friendly and like to recommend new drinks. With regular special events and guest DJ's there's always something new going on at the Rosebar.
Things to Do
There is only one true way to get ready for the festive season in Washington DC, and that's with a trip to see the National Christmas Tree Lighting. This annual ceremony sees people from all over the world come to watch as the lights are turned on outside the White House. In the Presidents Park a full festival takes place to mark the event. Artists and pop celebrities from across the US join in with the celebrations performing to a televised audience which spreads across the globe. A single artist from each state of America is then chosen to create a bauble for the tree, representing a true coming together of the nation. Even if you can't make it down for the actual event, it is always worth going to see this magnificent sight for yourself.
DC Ducks is almost a national institution in America and an experience no visitor should miss. This aquatic tour bus can take you on land and water, giving you all the best sights in the nation's capital. When enjoying this experience in December, make sure you have some gloves and a hat. Even if it feels ty Tour.the air. But for a magical experience that no one should miss, you really do need to book a DC DUcks nd, when you sit warm on the land, when you hit the river, you are sure to feel the chill in the air. But for a magical experience in the winter holidays, you really do need to book a DC Ducks City Tour.
