Springfield in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Springfield
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect holiday atmosphere - Christmas decorations at Universal Studios and downtown create magical winter scenes without extreme cold
- Ideal outdoor weather for walking tours - daytime temperatures of 25°C (77°F) make 3-4 hour walking explorations comfortable without overheating
- Lower accommodation rates - hotel prices drop 30-40% after Thanksgiving weekend, with mid-week rates as low as $89/night at quality properties
- Excellent indoor attraction weather - when brief winter showers hit, world-class museums and venues provide perfect refuge without summer's oppressive heat
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - December showers can last 2-3 hours and disrupt outdoor plans, unlike summer's predictable afternoon storms
- Limited daylight for outdoor activities - sunset around 5:30pm means outdoor attractions effectively close early, reducing sightseeing time
- Holiday closures affect some attractions - several local museums and smaller venues close December 24-26, limiting options during peak travel days
Best Activities in December
Lincoln Park Zoo Holiday Lights Walking Tours
December transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland with over 2 million LED lights. Cool 18-25°C (64-77°F) temperatures make evening strolls comfortable, and lower humidity means less fog obscuring displays. Peak illumination occurs during December's longer nights, creating perfect photo conditions.
Millennium Park Ice Skating and Downtown Architecture Tours
December's cool weather makes 2-3 hour walking architecture tours comfortable without summer's exhausting heat. The outdoor skating rink operates at full capacity, and crisp air provides crystal-clear views for photographing skyline and building details. Winter lighting enhances architectural features.
Museum Campus Indoor Cultural Experiences
December's cooler outdoor temperatures and occasional rain make this the perfect month for marathon museum visits. You can comfortably spend 4-6 hours indoors exploring world-class collections without missing prime outdoor weather. Special holiday exhibits run December-only.
Chicago Riverwalk Winter Market and Food Tours
December brings unique seasonal food vendors to the Riverwalk, with hot chocolate stands and winter comfort foods perfect for 20°C (68°F) afternoon temperatures. Fewer summer crowds mean easier access to popular food spots, and cool weather makes hot dishes especially appealing.
Lincoln Park Neighborhood Holiday Shopping Districts
Cool December weather makes walking between boutique shops and local markets comfortable for 3-4 hour shopping sessions. Holiday window displays peak in December, and indoor heated venues provide perfect rain refuge. Local artisan markets feature December-only holiday crafts.
Navy Pier Winter Festival and Lake Michigan Scenic Views
December transforms Navy Pier with winter festivals and holiday markets. Cool temperatures make the 1 km (0.6 mile) pier walk pleasant, while Lake Michigan views are spectacular with winter clarity and dramatic sky colors. Indoor attractions provide perfect rainy day backup.
December Events & Festivals
Christkindlmarket Chicago
Authentic German Christmas market in Daley Plaza featuring 50+ vendors selling handcrafted ornaments, authentic German food, and mulled wine. Perfect for December's cool weather - hot beverages and warm food stalls create cozy atmosphere.
Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Free light display featuring over 2 million lights transforming zoo pathways and animal habitats. December's early sunset at 4:30pm means displays begin early, and cool temperatures make evening walks comfortable.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Major holiday lighting ceremony along Michigan Avenue with parade, live music, and coordinated building illuminations. December's clear, cool air provides optimal viewing conditions for the light displays.