New Orleans Weather in December

🇺🇸 United States

17°C

High

11°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

North America › 🇺🇸 United States › New Orleans

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit New Orleans?

5/10

Fair

December is a fair time to visit New Orleans (5/10). With 7 daily sunshine hours and only 10 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in New Orleans. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak May without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: New Orleans'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:21°C avg high

Visiting New Orleans in December means mild conditions with highs around 17°C. Factor in 10 potential rainy days and 70% average humidity when planning your daily activities.

17°C

Avg High

11°C

Avg Low

10 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in New Orleans in December

The 6°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 70%, 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 21 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 63°F average high, 52°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in New Orleans in December

Morning11°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon17°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening14°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for New Orleans in December means dressing for 17°C days and 11°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 17°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 11°C, a modest 6°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 10 potential rainy days.

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Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in New Orleans. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in New Orleans in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in New Orleans, 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 New Orleans in December

Based on 17°C average highs and 10 rainy days

Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in New Orleans in December

Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 17°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 17°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
Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is New Orleans mild in December?

December in New Orleans reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 17°C by day and 11°C overnight. The city sits at 30 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 6°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: New Orleans in December

In December, New Orleans experiences average highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). Expect around 10 rainy days and 7 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 6°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.

New Orleans typically sees 10 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 103mm. 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 New Orleans typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.

Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for New Orleans in December. Temperatures can drop to 11°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 10 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 New Orleans. Expect 10 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 17°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 7 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 New Orleans in December is 17°C (63°F), and the average low is 11°C (52°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 14°C (57°F). The day-to-night range of 6°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 New Orleans is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 12 hours per day and only 9 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

December is shoulder or low season in New Orleans, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 7 sunshine hours and 10 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, New Orleans suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 17°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. With 7 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in New Orleans, with an average 7 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are November, October, and February. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (16°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 21°C high, 7 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	16°C	9°C	10	7h	View
February	18°C	11°C	9	8h	View
March	21°C	14°C	10	9h	View
April	24°C	17°C	9	10h	View
May	28°C	21°C	9	12h	View
June	30°C	24°C	16	12h	View
July	31°C	25°C	18	11h	View
August	31°C	25°C	18	11h	View
September	29°C	24°C	13	10h	View
October	25°C	19°C	8	10h	View
November	21°C	14°C	7	9h	View
December	17°C	11°C	10	7h	View

Other Months in New Orleans

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

Plan Your Trip to New Orleans

Best Time to Visit New Orleans

Data Sources for New Orleans

New Orleans 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.