Nashville Weather in December

🇺🇸 United States

10°C

High

2°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

North America › 🇺🇸 United States › Nashville

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Nashville?

4/10

Fair

December is a fair time to visit Nashville (4/10). Average highs of 10°C and 6 sunshine hours daily make conditions workable, though not exceptional. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 11 potential rain days. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Nashville'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: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.

vs November:15°C avg high

Nashville's December climate peaks at 10°C each afternoon before cooling to 2°C overnight. 6 daily sunshine hours and just 11 wet days mean the odds of a fine day are solidly in your favour. It is a reasonable time to visit, with a backup plan for the occasional shower.

10°C

Avg High

2°C

Avg Low

11 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

65%

Humidity

Temperature in Nashville in December

The 8°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. Wind averages 16 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 50°F average high, 36°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Nashville in December

Morning2°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon10°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening5°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Nashville in December means dressing for 10°C days and 2°C evenings. Layering is key: a thermal base, mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer jacket for 10°C highs that feel colder in the wind. Evening temperatures settle at 2°C, a modest 8°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. A compact foldable umbrella weighs almost nothing and earns its keep across 11 potential rainy days.

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Local tip: Nashville's 10°C days warm significantly in direct sunshine. A removable outer layer you can tie around your waist handles the midday warmth without leaving you cold on shaded streets or in the evening.

Events in Nashville in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Nashville, 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 Nashville in December

Based on 10°C average highs and 11 rainy days

Warm jacket (down or fleece)
Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
Sweaters and lined trousers
Scarf and lightweight gloves
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
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 Nashville in December

Vigorous walking tour of the UNESCO heritage districtMidday (12-2pm)The 10°C peak temperature provides ideal conditions for brisk sightseeing walks
Cycling the riverside or park circuitAfternoon (1-4pm)Cool dry air makes long cycling sessions comfortable without overheating
Explore hilltop viewpoints and fortressesMorning for clear viewsCold-weather atmospheric clarity gives the longest sightlines of the year
Open-air Christmas or seasonal marketsAfternoon into eveningCool temperatures make festive outdoor markets genuinely atmospheric
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 Nashville cool in December?

December in Nashville reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 10°C by day and 2°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 8°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: Nashville in December

In December, Nashville experiences average highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). Expect around 11 rainy days and 6 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 8°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.

Nashville typically sees 11 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 126mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Nashville typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Nashville in December. Temperatures can drop to 2°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 11 rainy days expected. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.

December is a reasonable time to visit Nashville. Expect 11 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 10°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 6 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Nashville in December is 10°C (50°F), and the average low is 2°C (36°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 6°C (43°F). The day-to-night range of 8°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 Nashville is generally August. August offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 11 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 31°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around August gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in Nashville, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 6 sunshine hours and 11 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, Nashville suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 10°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. Cosy cafes and cultural venues make ideal retreats on overcast days.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Nashville, with an average 6 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are September, October, and November. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (9°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 15°C high, 9 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	9°C	0°C	11	6h	View
February	11°C	2°C	11	6h	View
March	16°C	5°C	12	8h	View
April	21°C	10°C	12	9h	View
May	25°C	15°C	12	11h	View
June	30°C	20°C	13	12h	View
July	31°C	22°C	13	12h	View
August	31°C	21°C	11	11h	View
September	28°C	18°C	8	10h	View
October	22°C	12°C	8	8h	View
November	15°C	6°C	9	7h	View
December	10°C	2°C	11	6h	View

Other Months in Nashville

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Nashville

Best Time to Visit Nashville

Data Sources for Nashville

Nashville on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.