Christmas in Vermont really feels like the heart of winter. You can expect cold temperatures, frequent snow, and short days that set the stage for a classic New England holiday.
Daytime highs usually stay in the 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit. Nights drop well below freezing.
Snow falls often, and in many parts of the state, a white Christmas is more likely than not.
When you spend the holiday here, you see how weather shapes daily life. Ski slopes get busy, small towns glow with lights against snowy streets, and mountain valleys hold deep snowpack that hangs on well into the season.
The mix of crisp air, steady snowfall, and limited daylight creates a setting that feels both quiet and full of life at the same time.
Knowing what to expect helps you plan. Some regions get heavier snow than others, and conditions can shift fast with elevation.
Whether you want to ski, snowshoe, or just soak up the festive atmosphere, understanding Vermont’s typical Christmas weather gives you a better sense of what the holiday season usually brings.
Typical December Weather in Vermont
December in Vermont brings cold air and frequent snow. Days are short.
You can expect freezing nights, limited daylight, and a mix of light to heavy precipitation depending on where you stay.
Conditions change across the state. Northern towns usually run colder and snowier than the southern valleys.
Average Temperatures Across Vermont
Temperatures in December stay well below freezing at night. During the day, they rarely climb far above it.
In northern areas like Stowe or Burlington, daytime highs often reach only 27–32°F (-3 to 0°C). Nights dip to 15–20°F (-9 to -7°C).
Southern Vermont, including Brattleboro and Bennington, tends to be a bit milder. Daytime highs may reach 33–35°F (0–2°C), with nighttime lows closer to 18–22°F (-8 to -6°C).
Mountain towns like Killington or Stratton usually run colder than valley towns. Higher elevations often stay in the upper 20s during the day and drop into the low teens at night.
| Region | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| Northern VT | 27–32°F (-3 to 0°C) | 15–20°F (-9 to -7°C) |
| Central VT | 28–33°F (-2 to 1°C) | 16–21°F (-9 to -6°C) |
| Southern VT | 33–35°F (0–2°C) | 18–22°F (-8 to -6°C) |
Precipitation and Humidity Levels
December ranks among the snowiest months in Vermont. Snowfall varies a lot by location.
Mountain regions often get 12–20 inches (30–50 cm) or more in a typical month. Lower valleys may see lighter totals, closer to 8–12 inches (20–30 cm).
Moisture levels run high, and storms can bring a mix of snow, sleet, or freezing rain. Stratton Mountain, for example, averages well over 150 mm of precipitation in December, while Burlington averages closer to 90 mm.
Humidity stays pretty high, often around 70–80%, which makes the cold feel sharper. By mid-December, snow cover is common, especially in northern and central Vermont, creating solid winter conditions for skiing and outdoor activities.
Daylight Hours and Cloud Cover
Daylight is limited in December. You get only about 8.5 to 9 hours of daylight near the winter solstice.
Sunrise comes around 7:20 a.m. and sunset happens before 4:20 p.m.
Cloudy skies take over much of the month. On average, you might see only 3–4 hours of sunshine per day.
Some days pass with barely any direct sunlight. The frequent cloud cover and early sunsets create long evenings.
Visibility drops during snowstorms, especially in higher elevations. If you plan to drive or explore rural areas, get ready for low light and changing road conditions throughout the month.
Snowfall and Winter Conditions During Christmas
December in Vermont brings steady snowfall, cold temperatures, and conditions that usually support holiday skiing and snowboarding.
Mountain areas get much heavier snow than valleys. The state’s higher elevations typically hold enough snowpack for winter sports by late December.
Average Snowfall Amounts in December
Snowfall in Vermont varies a lot depending on location and elevation. In the valleys, you often see totals around 15–20 inches for the month.
For example, Burlington averages about 19.5 inches, while towns like Rutland and Rochester usually get 17–18 inches.
Higher elevations in the Green Mountains get much more. Mount Mansfield, the state’s tallest peak, averages over 40 inches in December.
Ski areas like Smugglers’ Notch and Killington Resort also see totals above 30 inches, making them reliable for early-season skiing.
Northern towns such as Newport and St. Johnsbury typically get around 20–25 inches. Southern Vermont, including places near the Green Mountain National Forest, averages closer to 16–18 inches.
These differences mean mountain resorts often have deeper snow than nearby towns.
Probability of a White Christmas
The chance of snow on the ground for Christmas runs higher in Vermont than in most of New England.
In the northern mountains, the probability of at least an inch of snow on December 25 often exceeds 80%. Areas like Mount Mansfield and the spine of the Green Mountains are especially dependable.
In valley locations such as Burlington or Rutland, the odds are lower but still strong. You usually have about a 60–70% chance of snow cover at Christmas.
Coastal systems and lake-effect patterns can bump up totals in some years, but occasional thaws might reduce snow depth in lower elevations.
Southern Vermont towns near ski resorts like Stratton or Mount Snow also maintain a good chance of holiday snow. While less reliable than the northern mountains, these areas still see snow on the ground most Christmas mornings.
Snowpack and Winter Sports Readiness
Snowpack builds steadily through December in Vermont’s mountain regions. By Christmas, ski areas such as Killington Resort, Stowe, and Smugglers’ Notch usually operate with multiple lifts and trails open.
Natural snow combines with snowmaking to give consistent coverage.
The Green Mountain National Forest benefits from early-season accumulation. This opens up backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country trails by late December.
Depths in the higher terrain often reach 1–2 feet by the holiday.
Lower valleys might have less snowpack, sometimes just a few inches. The colder mountain climate ensures that higher elevations retain enough snow for winter sports.
This makes Vermont’s mountains a reliable choice if you want to plan holiday activities in the snow.
Regional Weather Variations Across Vermont
Vermont’s landscape creates noticeable differences in holiday weather. Elevation, proximity to Lake Champlain, and location within the state all play a role in temperature, snowfall, and travel conditions.
Northern Vermont Weather Patterns
Northern Vermont, including Burlington and Newport, tends to be colder than the southern part of the state.
Daytime highs around Christmas usually sit near freezing. Nights often dip below 20°F (-6°C).
Snow cover is common, especially away from Lake Champlain.
Burlington, on the lake’s western shore, often gets slightly milder conditions than inland areas. The lake moderates temperatures, but it can also boost snowfall when cold air passes over the water.
This makes Burlington prone to frequent snow showers.
Newport, farther inland and closer to the Canadian border, experiences colder nights and heavier snow accumulation. Roads in this region can get icy, and travel may require extra caution.
Ski areas near Mount Mansfield and Stowe often benefit from reliable snowpack. The northern mountains are a popular holiday destination for winter sports.
Central Vermont Christmas Conditions
Central Vermont includes higher elevations and valleys, which create sharp local differences in December weather.
Towns near Mount Mansfield and the Green Mountains often receive heavy snowfall by late December. Daytime highs usually hover near the freezing mark.
Nighttime lows fall into the teens (°F).
In valleys, snow may be lighter, but cold air often lingers longer. This can lead to icy mornings, especially in shaded areas.
Ski resorts in this region typically see good snow coverage for Christmas week, though conditions can vary year to year.
Snowfall amounts are generally higher in the mountains than in surrounding towns.
If you plan to travel through central Vermont, expect winding roads and possible snow squalls, especially at higher passes.
The region usually provides a classic winter setting, though weather can change quickly.
Southern Vermont December Climate
Southern Vermont, including Bennington and nearby towns, tends to be a bit milder than the north.
Daytime highs in December often reach the mid-30s°F. Nighttime lows average in the 20s°F.
Snowfall is still frequent, but totals are usually lower than in the central and northern mountains.
Because of lower elevation in parts of the south, you might see more mixed precipitation events, like sleet or freezing rain. This can make driving more difficult than steady snowfall.
Ski areas in southern Vermont still get significant snow, but conditions can be more variable.
Bennington and surrounding valleys sometimes see rain during warmer spells, while nearby higher terrain holds onto snowpack.
If you prefer slightly less severe cold, southern Vermont may feel more comfortable around Christmas.
Comparing December to Other Months in Vermont
December in Vermont marks the beginning of the coldest stretch of the year.
Temperatures drop quickly, snow becomes the main form of precipitation, and daylight is at its shortest.
The shift from fall to winter is clear. The differences between December and the months around it show just how fast things change.
December Versus January Weather
January in Vermont is colder than December. Average daytime highs in December often range from the mid-20s to mid-30s °F (-4°C to 2°C).
In January, highs usually sit closer to the low 20s °F (-6°C) or even colder in northern towns. Nighttime lows in January often sink below 10°F (-12°C), making it the coldest month of the year.
Snowfall gets heavier in January. While December brings frequent snow, January often piles up larger snowpacks that last through February.
Ski conditions are more consistent in January, especially in the Green Mountains, where snow cover is deeper and more reliable.
Daylight is a little longer in January compared to December, but the difference is pretty minor. You still face short days, cold winds, and icy roads.
If you compare the two months, December feels like the start of winter, while January really brings the deep freeze.
November to December Transition
The change from November to December is the sharpest seasonal shift in Vermont.
In November, you still get some mild afternoons with highs in the 40s °F (4°C to 9°C), especially in southern areas like Brattleboro.
Snow can fall in November, but it often melts quickly, leaving behind bare ground or light frost.
By December, snow cover becomes consistent. Highs drop into the 20s and 30s °F (-4°C to 2°C), and lows fall into the teens.
Rain becomes less common, replaced by snowstorms that can deliver several inches at once.
This transition also changes outdoor activities. In November, you might still enjoy late-season hiking or drives through the valleys.
By December, winter sports take over, and ski resorts open in full. The quick drop in temperature makes sure snow sticks, unlike in November when it often washes away in rain.
Winter Versus Fall Conditions
Fall months like October and September in Vermont feel completely different from December.
In September, average highs reach the upper 60s °F (around 20°C). Foliage season peaks in early October with crisp but mild days.
By late October, temperatures fall into the 40s °F (4°C to 9°C), and frost becomes common at night.
By December, the landscape shifts from colorful leaves to snow-covered fields. The ground freezes, and most lakes start to develop ice.
Unlike fall, when you might see a mix of rain and sun, December skies are often overcast, and snow is the norm.
Comparing December to March shows how winter evolves. March still brings snow, but temperatures begin to rise into the 30s and 40s °F (1°C to 7°C), and snow cover starts to melt.
By May, spring is in full swing, with highs in the 60s °F (16°C), blooming trees, and longer days.
December stands out as the month where winter really takes hold, separating the mildness of fall from the depth of mid-winter.
Factors Influencing Christmas Weather
Christmas weather in Vermont depends on both terrain and local water influences.
Higher elevations in the Green Mountains often get colder conditions and deeper snow, while areas near Lake Champlain experience slightly milder temperatures and more variable precipitation.
Elevation and Mountain Effects
Vermont’s mountains shape holiday weather in a big way. The Green Mountains, with peaks like Mount Mansfield, rise high enough to bring colder air and heavier snowfall than you’ll find down in the valleys.
When moist air sweeps across the state, the mountains push it upward. This process, called orographic lift, cools the air and bumps up snow totals.
Ski resorts and mountain towns see snowpack build up fast in December, so white Christmases are pretty common there.
Lower valleys, like the Connecticut River Valley, usually stay a little warmer. Snow still falls, but sometimes it mixes with rain when the weather gets milder.
That elevation difference? It really explains why one town might have deep snow, while just a short drive away, you’ll see patchy ground cover.
If you’re traveling, keep in mind that road conditions can shift quickly as you move from valley towns into the mountains. Higher routes get colder, icier, and snowier, but down low, roads may just be wet.
Lake Champlain’s Impact on Local Climate
Lake Champlain changes winter weather for nearby towns like Burlington, Winooski, and Vergennes. Since water holds heat longer than land, spots close to the lake usually stay a few degrees warmer than places farther inland.
This small temperature bump can really affect precipitation type. A storm that dumps heavy snow on Montpelier might only bring a messy mix of snow and rain to Burlington.
Early in the season, snow near the lake tends to be thinner—especially compared to the Green Mountains.
Lake-effect snow happens here too, but it’s not as wild as what you see near the Great Lakes. Moisture from the lake can boost snowfall when cold winds blow across the water.
These localized snow bands are usually pretty narrow but can really pile up snow in certain spots.
If you’re staying near the lake for the holidays, expect milder air and more ups and downs in snow cover. Areas farther from Lake Champlain usually see more classic winter weather.
Travel and Outdoor Activities During the Holiday Season
Vermont’s holiday season blends snowy fun with small-town traditions. You can hit the slopes in the mountains, catch festive events in historic villages, and travel safely if you plan ahead for winter weather.
Skiing and Snowboarding Conditions
If you love skiing or snowboarding, Vermont has some of the most reliable conditions in New England. Resorts like Killington Resort open early and keep snow around well into spring, thanks to their massive snowmaking operations.
December usually brings fresh snow, especially up high, but snowmaking keeps the trails open even if nature takes a break.
You’ll find terrain for every skill level. Beginners can stick to wide, groomed runs, while experts can dive into steeper slopes or glades.
Top spots like Stowe Mountain Resort, Okemo, and Sugarbush draw holiday crowds and bring a festive vibe.
If you want things quieter, cross-country skiing is a great option. The Green Mountain National Forest offers miles of trails for skiing or snowshoeing through peaceful woods.
These areas rarely get as busy as the big resorts and are perfect for families or anyone who just wants some quiet time.
Holiday Events and Festive Experiences
A lot of Vermont towns turn into holiday wonderlands with lights, markets, and classic events. Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend brings horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, and historic homes dressed up for the season.
Manchester puts on a lighted tractor parade and seasonal concerts, while Middlebury offers wagon rides, Santa visits, and plenty of holiday shopping.
Holiday fun isn’t just about skiing. You can hop on a horse-drawn sleigh ride at farms in places like Stowe or Chittenden—usually with hot cocoa and cozy blankets.
Families also love cutting their own Christmas tree at local farms, which definitely adds to the holiday spirit.
For a taste of culture and history, Billings Farm in Woodstock shows off Victorian holiday traditions, with candle dipping and seasonal treats.
Burlington’s Winter Market gives you a city vibe with local vendors, food, and live music. Each event really shows off Vermont’s small-town charm and offers plenty for families to do.
Tips for Safe Winter Travel
If you’re heading out in Vermont during winter, you’ve got to prepare. Snow and ice pop up all the time, especially on those back roads and mountain passes.
Pack an emergency kit with blankets, water, and a flashlight. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself if you ever get stuck.
Four-wheel drive or snow tires really help when you’re dealing with steep hills or roads that haven’t been plowed.
Give yourself extra time to get from town to town. Conditions can turn on a dime, and you never know what you’ll hit next.
Check the weather before you go, especially if you’re driving through the Green Mountains. The snow piles up there way more than in the valleys.
Wear layers, and don’t forget waterproof boots, gloves, and hats. Even short outdoor stuff—like sleigh rides or cutting your own tree—can get rough if you’re not dressed right.
If you’re planning to ski, remember to pack goggles and something to cover your face. The wind and blowing snow at higher elevations can be brutal.