Las Vegas Weather in December: Essential Climate Guide

Introduction

December is festive even in Las Vegas with lots of places to view Christmas decorations. The long Christmas break and the runup to New Years make this a pretty busy month. The weather is not at its best either being the coldest month of the year, but really cold spells are rare. In fact, it’s still likely to see days above 60F. Sporadic rain does occur, but being Vegas - usually it is light and doesn’t last long. In this post I will detail what to expect when you visit Las Vegas in December.

Be sure to see how I ranked this month for best month to visit at the end!

Christmas at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas

Quick Stats

• Coldest month

• 3rd wettest

• 13 days above 60F (21C).

• Normal highs range from 60F-56F (16C-13C)

• 3 days of rain

• Warmest ever 78F (26C) - Coldest ever 11F (-12C)

• Most rain in a day 1.13”

• 6th busiest month* (Source: LVCVA Research Center)

Temperatures

The coldest month of the year sounds worse than it actually is in Las Vegas. With more than a dozen days above 60F/16C and desert sunshine, it’s rarely cold by most people’s standards. This is especially true if you’re coming from a strong winter climate. However, December does average 5 days where the high doesn’t get above 50F/10C and that’s pretty chilly. At night you can expect 10 days getting to freezing or below. The coldest temperature ever in December is 11F/-12C which is quite cold, but on the bright side it hasn’t dropped in the teens since 1998.

I find the best way to get a feel for the weather is by looking at what happened in a previous year. Here is the latest actual December temperatures (2023).

Look at all those 60s last year and even one last 72F/22C! With only 9 days in the 50s, this was really not that bad. Chilly of course, but very tolerable.

Rainfall

December is generally the start of winter storm season. Cold fronts begin coming in from the Pacific bringing light rains and cooler temperatures. Usually it rains 3 days during the month but still only totaling 0.40”. This makes it 3rd wettest but 11 times December was completely dry. Chances are good during a multi-day trip - most of your days will be dry.

If you’re driving or renting a car in Las Vegas and the forecast calls for rain, know two things:

1. Las Vegas drivers are always caught off guard when the roads are wet.

2. Oil from cars builds up on the roads. When it rains, the roads become very slick from the oil. Slow down and give extra space to the car in front of you.

Snow

Rarely in December does the Strip see snow but it has happened 5 times. Usually it doesn’t amount to anything but in 2008 there was 3.6 inches. If you’re driving to Las Vegas or visiting Mt. Charleston - it’s time to start checking road conditions. It snows nearly every year on Mountain Pass on I-15 near the Nevada border, catching drivers from California off guard. For more information about snow in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas, check out my blog post on that topic below.

What To Pack

• December is the coldest time of year. Bring sweaters, long-sleeves, or jackets for daytime outings.

• You’ll need a coat or outerwear for cold nights, especially if you’re driving through the mountains.

• Scarves, hats, and gloves aren’t necessary yet unless you come from a warm climate or plan to visit Mt. Charleston.

• Still lots of sun in the desert so bring your sunglasses.

• Reusable water bottle

• Umbrella or rain jacket especially if the forecast calls for rain. Finding an umbrella on the Strip after its already started to rain can be difficult.

• Comfortable shoes are a must. Las Vegas involves a lot of walking, especially along the Strip. Comfortable shoes are essential to prevent getting tired and blisters.

• Swimwear is not necessary unless your hotel has a heated pool. Some of the resorts I know that have heat pools include: The Venetian Resort, Caesars Palace, The Mirage, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Aria Resort & Casino The Cosmopolitan, The Wynn, The Palazzo at The Venetian Resort, MGM Grand. Not all the pools at these locations will be heated.

Don’t Forget These Other Things:

• A portable charger. I know from experience if you forget one it’s gonna cost you an exorbitant amount to replace it if you have to buy it on the Strip.

• Remember to pack your necessary medications as well as personal care items like toiletries, hand sanitizer, and lip balm.

• Don't forget to bring your ID, credit cards, travel insurance information, and any other essential documents you may need for your trip. Seems obvious but I’ve done it.

Sunrise/Sunset

Sunrise on December 1st starts at 6:33 AM. By the end of the month the sunrise is 6:51 AM. Sunset at the beginning of the month is 4:26 PM and by the end is 4:36 PM. There are about 10 hours of daylight each day. Remember, Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone - same as Los Angeles.

Safety Tips

Most of these tips are for those of you who will venture off the strip to neaby parks for hiking or biking.

1. Stay hydrated: Despite cooler temperatures, the desert can be deceptively dry. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. This is even true if you only plan to stay on the Strip. And remember alcohol adds to dehydration.

2. Dress in layers: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations by wearing layered clothing that can be adjusted accordingly. Sweatshirts and long-sleeves work best. I can shed the outer layer when indoors or if it’s a sunny day outdoors.

3. Protect against sun exposure: Even in the winter the sun can be intense in the desert. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re hiking.

4. Exercise caution on the roads: If it rains, exercise caution while driving since road conditions may become slick.

5. Check weather forecasts: Stay informed about current weather conditions and forecasts to plan your activities accordingly and avoid unexpected weather-related surprises, especially if you are driving to Las Vegas.

Planning to visit Death Valley?

Check out my weather guide for Death Valley.

Conclusion

December being the coldest month and one of the busier months ranks somewhere in the middle. There are many pleasant days in the 60s with bright blue skies which it not nearly as bad as the intense summer heat. Still with the potential for cold rain, it’s not a high ranking month in my opinion. If you don’t mind the cold or come from a climate where winter is raging, definitely give it a go. Just try not to hit Christmas or New Years when the Strip is quite busy.

My Rank For Best Month To Visit Las Vegas: 8th