Thanksgiving in Delaware usually brings that classic cool, crisp air—a real sign that late fall has settled in. Daytime temperatures often land between the low 40s and upper 50s, with chilly nights dropping into the 30s.
Rain can show up, and the first frost usually arrives by now, making the air feel even sharper.
You’ll see the weather shift depending on where you are. Up north, Delaware feels a bit colder, while southern parts hold onto a little more warmth.
Snow? Not really a thing for Thanksgiving, but you might catch a flurry or two away from the coast.
This blend of cool temperatures and sometimes damp weather really shapes how you plan your holiday. Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or getting outside, knowing what to expect helps you stay comfortable and avoid surprises.
Typical Weather in Delaware Around Thanksgiving
As autumn transitions toward winter, you’ll notice cool temperatures, shorter days, and a higher chance of rain. Conditions shift a bit between north and south Delaware, but the whole state generally sees mild to chilly weather with some damp days in late November.
Average Temperatures in Late November
Late November in Delaware usually brings daytime highs in the 40s to upper 50s°F (4–14°C). Nights settle into the 30s°F (1–5°C), and frost becomes pretty common, especially inland.
Northern spots like Wilmington run a little colder than southern towns such as Seaford. If you’re planning anything outside in the evening, you’ll feel the difference—north Delaware can dip close to freezing.
Thanksgiving week feels brisk but not brutal. You’ll probably want a jacket or light coat during the day and something heavier after dark.
Snow doesn’t usually make an appearance, but you can’t rule out light flurries this early.
Precipitation Patterns and Rainfall
Rainfall around Thanksgiving isn’t out of the ordinary. Delaware gets about 3 inches of precipitation in November, spread over 7–8 days of measurable rain.
Most rain falls as light or steady showers, not big storms. The coastal influence keeps things damp but not wild. Expect wet ground or some drizzle here and there, so waterproof shoes and an umbrella come in handy.
Snowfall rarely happens in late November, but northern Delaware might see a dusting. Wilmington averages about 0.5 inches of snow for the month, while the south often waits until later in winter.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine Levels
By late November, days feel noticeably shorter. Delaware gets about 10 hours of daylight per day, with sunsets before 5:00 p.m.
Clouds roll in more often now. Skies tend to be partly to mostly cloudy, which means you’ll see less sunshine even when it’s daytime. Clear days show up less often than earlier in the fall.
If you want to get outside, try to do it earlier in the day to catch the light. Less sun and cooler air make evenings feel colder than the numbers might suggest.
Regional Variations Across Delaware
Weather shifts depending on where you are in Delaware. The north runs cooler, the central part feels pretty balanced, and the southern coast stays a bit milder thanks to the Atlantic.
Weather in Dover and Central Delaware
Dover and the central region usually see daytime temps in the mid to upper 50s around Thanksgiving. Nights drop into the 30s, so bundle up if you’re out after dark.
Rain isn’t rare this time of year, with light showers or cloudy skies on several days. The flat landscape means you won’t notice much difference from one town to the next, so conditions stay pretty steady across central Delaware.
If you’re checking out places like First State Heritage Park, bring a jacket and maybe an umbrella. The weather rarely goes extreme, but damp conditions can make walking tours less fun if you’re not ready for them.
Northern Delaware: Wilmington and Brandywine Valley
Northern Delaware—think Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley—usually feels a few degrees cooler than central spots. Highs stick to the low to mid-50s, and nights can fall into the upper 20s or low 30s.
The Brandywine Valley, with its hills and shade, can feel colder than you’d expect. Frost shows up here more than in the south, so early morning drives or hikes might bring slick spots on rural roads and trails.
If you’re planning to explore gardens or trails, layer up. The weather can flip quickly between sun and clouds. Winds also get stronger up here, especially north of Wilmington in open areas.
Southern Delaware: Seaford and Coastal Areas
Southern Delaware—including Seaford and the coastal stretch from Rehoboth Beach to Cape Henlopen—usually stays milder. Highs reach the upper 50s, with lows in the upper 30s to low 40s.
Closer to the ocean, the water keeps temperatures steadier and lowers the risk of frost. Rehoboth Beach and Cape Henlopen might feel breezy, but they’re not as cold as farther inland. A windbreaker comes in handy for those boardwalk strolls.
Inland places like Seaford and Trap Pond State Park cool off faster at night. Fog sometimes pops up early in the morning, especially near wetlands and woods. If you’re camping or hiking, expect damp ground and cooler nights compared to the coast.
Climate Characteristics Influencing Thanksgiving Weather
Delaware’s late November weather really shows off its spot between the Mid-Atlantic coast and inland valleys. You get a mix of mild coastal air and cooler continental air, which makes Thanksgiving weather swing from chilly and damp to crisp and dry.
Humid Subtropical Climate Overview
Delaware sits in a humid subtropical climate zone, which means you get four distinct seasons. Summers bring warmth and humidity, while winters stay cool but not as rough as up north. By late November, the state is shifting from fall to winter.
Highs around Thanksgiving often land in the upper 40s to low 50s (°F). Nighttime lows usually fall into the 30s, so frost is common, but deep freezes don’t show up much yet.
Moisture matters a lot. You’ll see light rain more often than snow, though the occasional early snow event happens. The Atlantic Ocean helps keep things milder than inland spots at the same latitude.
Thanksgiving in Delaware can swing from mild enough for a light jacket to brisk winds and a real winter-like chill.
Coastal Versus Inland Conditions
Where you are in Delaware makes a big difference on Thanksgiving. Along the Atlantic coast and Delaware Bay, water keeps temperatures steadier. Highs stick a bit warmer, and overnight lows aren’t as rough. Winds, though, can feel stronger and add to the chill.
Inland spots—around Dover or up near Newark—cool down faster after sunset. These areas often record colder nights than the coast. Frost is more common, and you’re just a touch more likely to see light snow than along the shoreline.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Location | Typical Highs (°F) | Typical Lows (°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal Delaware | 48–52 | 35–39 | Warmer nights, breezier |
| Inland Delaware | 46–50 | 31–35 | Colder nights, calmer winds |
So, your Thanksgiving plans might feel pretty different depending on where you are. Coastal towns run milder but windier, while inland areas get colder and quieter.
How Thanksgiving Weather Compares to Other Seasons
Late November in Delaware usually means cooler days—average highs in the upper 40s to low 50s, with lows dipping into the 30s. Thanksgiving weather sits right at the edge between the milder part of fall and the colder, stormier winter.
Autumn Versus Winter in Delaware
Thanksgiving lands at the end of autumn, so you get that crisp air but not the deep cold. Highs around 50°F feel a lot cooler than early October, when you could still see the mid-60s. By now, frost is common at night, and light freezes can happen across the state.
Winter, though, is colder and more unsettled. From December through February, highs often stay in the 30s, and lows can drop into the 20s or teens. Snow can fall, but totals swing a lot from year to year. Coastal areas might see more rain than snow, while inland places have a better shot at some accumulation.
Thanksgiving gives you a taste of winter’s chill, just without the harshest stuff. Winds can pick up as storms roll along the East Coast, but heavy snow is rare this early.
Spring and Summer Weather Contrasts
Spring in Delaware means things start warming up and rain gets more frequent. By March and April, highs reach the 50s and 60s, and lows stay above freezing most nights.
Spring weather can be all over the place, with cold fronts and warm-ups swapping out quickly. You’ll also see more showers than in late November.
Summer is a different world. Delaware summers are hot and humid, with average highs in the mid-80s and plenty of days hitting 90°F or higher. Humidity brings thunderstorms, especially July and August, which is a big switch from the drier, cooler air of late fall.
So, compared to Thanksgiving’s mild chill, spring feels wetter but more comfortable, and summer is all about heat and humidity. Late November really divides the warm months from the cold ones ahead.
Travel and Outdoor Activities During Thanksgiving Week
Delaware’s late November weather usually brings cool days and crisp nights, which makes it a great time for short trips and seasonal events. You can take in fall scenery, holiday markets, and coastal attractions without the big summer crowds.
Best Time to Visit Delaware for Fall Activities
The weeks before Thanksgiving often give you the best mix of cool air and mild sunshine. Highs usually run from the upper 40s to mid-50s °F, while nights fall into the 30s. That makes layering easy for walks or light hikes.
If you’re into fall foliage, mid-November is usually the last call for peak color in northern Delaware. Parks like Brandywine Creek and White Clay Creek still show off golds and reds.
Travel is lighter than in summer, too. Roads to Rehoboth Beach and Lewes are less crowded, and you can hit the boardwalks without long lines. If you’re flying, airports get busier closer to Thanksgiving, so arriving early in the week usually saves time.
Popular Destinations and Events in November
Delaware packs November with events that show off local culture and community. The Delaware State Fair is a summer thing, but fall still brings some well-known gatherings.
Rehoboth Beach runs the Sea Witch Festival in late October, and that festive vibe often rolls into early November with smaller coastal events and holiday markets. These are perfect for cooler weather—walking tours and parades feel better without the heat.
Historic towns like New Castle and Dover host seasonal tours and craft fairs. Many visitors swing by local wineries and breweries for tastings or to duck inside if rain shows up. Coastal trails and wildlife refuges stay open, so you can spot migratory birds before winter really sets in.
Tips for Packing and Planning Your Thanksgiving Visit
Late November in Delaware usually brings cool, damp weather with a mix of mild afternoons and chilly evenings. Plan for changing temperatures, possible rain, and heavier holiday traffic on the roads.
Recommended Clothing for Late November
Daytime highs in Delaware around Thanksgiving usually hit the upper 40s to low 50s °F. Nights tend to drop into the 30s, so you’ll definitely want to pack layered clothing that lets you adjust as the day goes on.
I’d suggest bringing a medium-weight coat or an insulated jacket. If you’re wandering around gardens or checking out outdoor spots like Brandywine Park during the day, a lighter fleece or sweater should do the trick.
At night, especially if you’re thinking about walking along Wilmington’s Riverfront or stopping by the Delaware Art Museum, you’ll probably need something warmer.
Rain pops up pretty often in late November, so don’t forget a water-resistant jacket and maybe an umbrella. If you’re planning to hit outdoor trails or wander around historic sites, comfortable waterproof shoes make a big difference.
Here’s a quick packing list you might find handy:
- Long-sleeve shirts and sweaters
- Warm coat or insulated jacket
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Waterproof walking shoes
- Scarf, gloves, and hat for colder evenings
With this kind of wardrobe, you can handle the changing weather without lugging around heavy winter gear. January and February call for more layers, but for November, this should cover it.
Weather-Related Travel Considerations
Thanksgiving always turns Delaware into a travel hotspot. If you’re driving, brace yourself for heavier traffic on I-95 and Route 1, especially that chaotic Wednesday before the holiday.
Try leaving super early or much later in the evening, if you can stand it. That’s usually the best way to dodge the worst of the congestion.
Rain could show up, so it’s wise to check the forecast before heading out. Planning a longer drive? Give your tires, brakes, and wipers a quick look.
I always throw a little emergency kit in the car—water, snacks, a flashlight, just in case. It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but you’ll be glad to have if you do.
Flying into Philadelphia International Airport? You’ll want to budget extra time for security lines and weather delays.
TSA says packing your liquids in a clear toiletry bag and starting with an empty carry-on makes screening faster. Honestly, it does help.
Traveling with kids or pets? Pack snacks, activities, and their favorite comfort items.
Keep essentials—meds, chargers, travel docs—somewhere you can grab them without digging. That little bit of planning makes the whole trip feel less stressful.