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Is it cold in Chicago in December?

Author

Christopher Ramos

Published Mar 06, 2026

Is it cold in Chicago in December?

HOW COLD IS CHICAGO IN DECEMBER? December in Chicago tends to be very cold and is often below freezing. On average, about 26 days record temperature dipping below freezing with 1-2 of these falling to 0 F (-18C) or below. The all-time record high temperature in Chicago during December is 71 F (21.7 C).

People also ask, is December a good time to visit Chicago?

That said, the best time to visit Chicago for those on a budget is during the winter. During late November and early December, along with the entire months of January and February, flight and hotel rates plummet. If you can brave the cold in favor of incredible rates, there's no better time to go to Chicago.

Furthermore, what is Chicago like in December? With glowing city lights and an abundance of holiday decor, Chicago becomes a winter wonderland each December. To celebrate the holidays, the city hosts a multitude of events and activities including: ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Tree Lighting Ceremonies.

Also asked, is it going to be a cold winter in Chicago?

November 2020 to October 2021. Winter temperatures will be much above normal, on average, despite cold periods in early and mid-December, from late December into early January, in early to mid-January, and in late January. Precipitation will be near normal.

What month does it start getting cold in Chicago?

The coldest season / winter is in the months of January and February. The warmest month is July with an average maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F). The coldest month is January with an average maximum temperature of -1°C (30°F). August is the most wet month.

Is Chicago worth visiting in winter?

Unfortunately, many tourists never consider Chicago to be a winter vacation destination due to the snow and cold temperatures. Luckily, many of the best attractions are located indoors, and the festive outdoor attractions are worth braving the cold, bundled up of course!

What should I wear in Chicago in December?

DECEMBER. What to Wear in Chicago in December: Without question, plan on packing winter-weather essentials: a heavy coat, hat, gloves, thick socks, and snow boots. Bonus points for thermal long johns. Recommendations: Men's down parka, men's waterproof boots, thick socks.

What places to avoid in Chicago?

Here is a list of the top ten most dangerous areas in Chicago according to government statistics:
  • West Garfield park. Population: 17,277.
  • Washington park. Read: chicago-neighborhoods/
  • East Garfield park.
  • Englewood.
  • North Lawndale.
  • Grand crossing.
  • West Englewood.
  • Riverdale.

What can you see in Chicago in 3 days?

This 3 day itinerary includes:
  • Check out our helpful Chicago itinerary infographic here.
  • Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
  • Shedd Aquarium.
  • The Field Museum.
  • Adler Planetarium.
  • Chicago Theatre Tour OR Architecture River Cruise.
  • 360 CHICAGO.
  • Magnificent Mile (free!)

What is there to do in Chicago at Christmas?

Christmas Events in Chicago
  • Chicago's Official Tree Lighting Ceremony.
  • ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo.
  • Lightscape.
  • Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum.
  • Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
  • Christkindlmarket Chicago.
  • Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier.
  • Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry.

Is Chicago expensive to visit?

Chicago is sometimes overlooked, but in spite of that it's one of the world's great cities and very worth a visit. It's classic America combined with an amazing combination of recent foreign influences. This city can definitely be expensive on tourists, though it doesn't have to be.

How many days is enough in Chicago?

I recommend four days, and I would try to see the following things. 1. The standard list of musueums and attactions, including the Field Museum of Natural History and the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry (especially the submarine). Both of them set a very high standard for such museums.

Is Chicago dangerous for tourists?

Chicago is generally safe for tourists, though some neighborhoods are best avoided. Avoid sketchy neighborhoods known for gang and similar criminal activities and take normal precaution measures.

Why is Chicago so cold in the winter?

The stratospheric polar vortex is a smallish patch of low-pressure air that circulates, anti-clockwise, in a ring some 48km (30 miles) above the Arctic. It helps to trap the coldest air near the pole and forms only in winter. When the Arctic is cold and lower latitudes are reliably warm, the jet stream is more stable.

Will it be a hot summer this year 2020?

We predict summer 2020 will be warmer and drier tan average overall. We think this summer will be around 1C to 1.5C above the long term average. We also think precipitation will be somewhat drier than average.

What will spring 2020 be like?

2020 United States Spring Weather Forecast

According to our long-range outlook, spring will be slow to start with winter lingering across the Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast, and New England. Occasional wet snow and unseasonably chilly conditions will hang on for a ride that you may not be able to get off until April!

Will it be a cold winter in 2020?

U.S. WINTER WEATHER FORECAST 2020-2021

Specifically, winter will be colder than normal in Maine; the Intermountain, Desert Southwest, and Pacific Southwest regions; and eastern Hawaii and above normal elsewhere.

Is Illinois going to have a bad winter?

According to the latest prediction from the Farmers' Almanac, which says it bases its long-range forecasts on a “mathematical and astronomical formula” developed in 1818, Chicago and much of Illinois can expect a "cold" and "very flaky" season. But for some in Illinois, above-normal snowfall is also a possibility.

Is Chicago getting colder?

DOWNTOWN — Chicago is about to get much, much colder. During that time, the city will likely see the lowest temperatures it's faced since last winter, when Chicago's “polar vortex” made it feel like it was 50 below zero. Friday will stay cold with an expected high temperature of just 16 degrees.

What does winter look like for 2020?

The U.S. 2020-2021 Winter Forecast

While many parts of the country made it through last winter with hardly any snow, this winter's forecast for the northern half of the United States is expected to be colder than average with more snow than usual in the Northern Plains, New England, and the Great Lakes regions.

What is the latest it has snowed in Chicago?

Snow Climatology for the NWS Chicago County Warning Area
Normal First Date:October 30April 14
Earliest First:September 25, 1942March 4, 2012
Latest First:December 5, 1999May 22, 1917

Where should I go in Chicago in December?

10 Best Things to Do in Chicago This December
  • See the Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
  • Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park.
  • Marvel at Illumination at the Morton Arboretum.
  • Enjoy Family Fun at the Winter WonderFest.
  • Take a Ride on the CTA Holiday Train.
  • Discover Christmas Around the World at the MSI.

What is the best area to stay in Chicago?

Which area should you choose?
  • Best Chicago neighborhoods for luxury: Gold Coast and River North.
  • Best area for budget travelers: Lincoln Park.
  • Best area to stay in Chicago for foodies: West Loop.
  • Best for nightlife: River North.
  • Best for families: Lincoln Park.

Does it snow on Christmas in Chicago?

The most snowfall on Christmas Day in Chicago happened in 1950, when 5.1 inches blanketed the ground at Midway Airport. Forecasters predicted light snow for that day. In 2016 and 2017, Chicago had 2 inches of snow on the ground heading into Christmas Day, marking the city's first white Christmases since 2013.

Is Chicago colder than NYC?

New York and Chicago can go toe-to-toe for hot, humid summers. On average, Chicago gets about a foot more snow each winter than New York. While the coldest average monthly temperature in New York bottoms out at 27 degrees, Chicago's average lows in winter months are 18 degrees or colder.

Is Chicago Safe?

Very safe. You must not realize how large Chicago is. There area poor/undereducated areas where crime happens but they are outlying neighborhoods with no affect downtown or other safe, nice neighborhoods. The neighborhoods that you note are perfectly safe.

Is Chicago the coldest city?

It's Official, Chicago Is Colder Than Parts Of The Arctic, Yukon, And Mars. CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago is not the coldest place on Earth right now, but it's not as far off as you might think.

Does Chicago have 4 seasons?

The climate of Chicago is classified as hot-summer humid continental (Köppen: Dfa), with all four seasons distinctly represented: Winters are cold and see frequent snow and near 0 °F (−18 °C) windchill temperatures, while summers are warm and humid with temperatures being hotter inland, spring and fall bring bouts of

What Chicago is known for?

What is Chicago Most Famous For?
  • Start your day at Millenium Park.
  • Must-See: Adler Planetarium.
  • Do the Chicago Riverwalk.
  • Shop along the Magnificent Mile.
  • Take the kids to Shedd Aquarium.
  • Meet Sue at the Field Museum.
  • Try Chicago-style pizza at Pizzeria Uno.
  • Ride the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel.

How bad is Chicago winter?

Cold Winter will occasionally dip down below zero (Fahrenheit), but usually resides somewhere above zero and below 20. Despite being known for cold (and windy, although that's mostly due to the politicians) winters, Chicago doesn't get a lot of snow compared to other places like Pennsylvania and upstate New York.

What are the two coldest months?

December through February features the coldest temperatures of the season in most of the United States. See when the coldest average low temperature of the season occurs in your location.