If you’re picturing a snowy Christmas in Vancouver, it’s time to adjust the picture. December here is mild, dark and wet. It rarely gets properly cold in the city, snow is uncommon at sea level, and the mountains you can see from downtown are where the snow actually is.
That’s not a bad thing. Mild weather means outdoor Christmas markets, light walks and skating stay comfortable, as long as you dress for rain. Here’s what to expect.
December Weather at a Glance
| Average daytime high | About 6°C |
| Average overnight low | About 2°C |
| Rain | Around 190 mm in the month, on roughly 16 or more days |
| Snow in the city | A few centimetres in a typical December, and some years none |
| Daylight | About 8 hours on December 21, the shortest day. It’s dark by around 4:30 PM |
Figures are long-term averages for Vancouver International Airport. Individual Decembers can be much wetter, colder or snowier.
Does It Snow in Vancouver at Christmas?
Sometimes, but don’t count on it. Snow at sea level usually comes in short spells, often melts within a day or two, and is more likely in January than December. Higher neighbourhoods and the North Shore get more than the airport. A true white Christmas in the city is unusual: Vancouver had well-known ones in 2008 and 2021, but most years the 25th is grey and wet.
If you want guaranteed snow, go up. Grouse Mountain, Cypress and Seymour are 30 minutes from downtown and usually have snow by Christmas. See Christmas on Grouse, Cypress and Seymour. Whistler is about two hours away: Christmas in Squamish and Whistler.
The Rain
December is one of Vancouver’s wettest months. It’s usually steady drizzle or light rain rather than downpours, but “atmospheric river” storms can bring a lot of rain at once. Almost every outdoor Christmas event here runs rain or shine, so the rain shouldn’t stop you; it just changes what you wear.
What to Wear in Vancouver in December
- A waterproof jacket with a hood. Umbrellas are fine downtown, but awkward at markets and on light walks.
- Waterproof boots. More important than a heavy coat. Wet feet ruin a light show faster than anything.
- Layers. A sweater or fleece under the shell. It’s around 2 to 6°C, damp and breezy by the water.
- A toque and gloves for evenings, and more if you’re going up a mountain, where it can be well below zero.
- Something for the dark. A small light or reflective strip helps on unlit park paths after 4:30 PM.
Best Christmas Plans for Wet Days
- Glow Gardens Langley has large indoor sections.
- Gingerbread Lane, Soar With Santa at FlyOver and the Circle Craft market are all indoors.
- Holiday shows: The Nutcracker, holiday theatre and Christmas concerts.
- Afternoon tea somewhere warm: see festive afternoon tea in Vancouver.
More ideas are in our Christmas with kids guide.
Getting Around in Bad Weather
When it does snow, Vancouver slows down fast: hills get slick, buses get delayed, and the bridges back up. SkyTrain is the most reliable way around. If you’re driving to the North Shore mountains or up the Sea-to-Sky Highway, winter tires are required on many BC highways from October 1, so check the rules for your route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold is Vancouver in December?
Mild by Canadian standards. Daytime highs average about 6°C and nights about 2°C.
Will it snow in Vancouver for Christmas 2026?
It’s too early to say. Most Christmases in the city are rainy rather than snowy, but the local mountains usually have snow.
How many hours of daylight are there in Vancouver in December?
About 8 hours on the shortest day, December 21. Sunset is around 4:15 to 4:30 PM in mid-December.
What should I pack for Vancouver at Christmas?
A waterproof jacket, waterproof boots, warm layers, a toque and gloves.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Best Christmas Things to Do in Vancouver
