Things to Do in Richmond in December

December Weather in Richmond

46°F (8°C) High Temp

29°F (-2°C) Low Temp

86 mm (3.4 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Magical holiday atmosphere - downtown Richmond transforms with elaborate light displays on Monument Avenue and the Cathedral District from December 1-January 6
Peak theater season with Richmond Symphony holiday concerts at Carpenter Theatre and intimate productions at Theatre IV, plus reduced ticket prices for weekday shows
Cooler weather perfect for exploring Civil War battlefields like Cold Harbor and Gaines' Mill without summer heat and humidity
Winter restaurant specials and cozy pub atmosphere - local establishments offer warming dishes like she-crab soup and seasonal cocktails with lower tourist crowds

Considerations

Unpredictable weather swings from 50°F (10°C) sunny days to 25°F (-4°C) with ice storms, making outdoor planning challenging
Limited daylight hours - sunset by 5:15 PM means less time for outdoor sightseeing and photography
Higher accommodation prices during December 15-31 holiday period, with downtown hotels charging 40-60% premiums over November rates

Best Activities in December

Civil War Battlefield Tours

December's cool temperatures (averaging 37°F/3°C) make exploring Richmond's Civil War sites comfortable without summer's oppressive heat. Battlefields like Cold Harbor and Malvern Hill offer clearer views through leafless trees, and the somber winter landscape adds historical authenticity. Walking tours last 2-3 hours without overheating.

Booking Tip: Book self-guided audio tours or join weekend group tours typically costing $15-25 per person. Park passes valid for 7 days cost $10-15. Many sites offer indoor visitor centers as warm-up breaks. Check current tour schedules in booking section below.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

Richmond's brick architecture and cobblestone streets look particularly atmospheric in December's crisp air. The Fan District and Church Hill neighborhoods offer excellent photography opportunities with winter light, and you'll avoid summer crowds at popular spots like St. John's Church and Capitol Square.

Booking Tip: Most walking tours run 90-120 minutes and cost $18-28 per person. Book morning tours (10 AM-12 PM) for best light and warmth. Many include indoor stops at historic buildings for weather breaks. See current guided options in booking section below.

James River Winter Activities

December transforms the James River into a peaceful winter landscape perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. Belle Isle and Maymont Park offer excellent river views without summer's heat and bugs. Winter bird migration brings species not visible other times of year.

Booking Tip: River activities like kayaking require dry suits in December - rental packages typically cost $45-65 including gear. Photography tours and nature walks are more popular, ranging $20-35 per person. Check weather conditions before booking water activities in booking section below.

Museum and Indoor Cultural Experiences

December's unpredictable weather makes Richmond's world-class museums essential backup plans. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers free admission and excellent holiday exhibitions, while the American Civil War Museum provides heated indoor exploration perfect for cold days.

Booking Tip: Most museums offer free or low-cost admission ($8-15). Special exhibitions may require advance booking, especially during holiday periods. Museum combo passes cost $25-40 for multiple venues. Plan indoor activities for afternoons when temperatures drop. See current exhibitions in booking section below.

Holiday Light and Festival Tours

Richmond's December holiday displays are legendary - Monument Avenue's decorations span 2 miles (3.2 km) and Maymont Mansion offers special holiday tours. The city's holiday markets run weekends throughout December with local crafts and seasonal foods.

Booking Tip: Holiday light tours typically cost $25-45 per person and book quickly after December 10th. Walking tours last 90 minutes, bus tours 2 hours. Maymont holiday tours require advance booking and cost $12-18. Book early December for best selection in booking section below.

Local Food and Brewery Tours

December showcases Richmond's acclaimed food scene with seasonal menus and warm, cozy atmospheres. The city's craft brewery boom means multiple indoor venues perfect for cold weather, plus winter beer releases and holiday-themed tastings.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost $65-85 per person and last 3-4 hours with indoor stops. Brewery tours range $30-50 including tastings. Book weekend tours 7-10 days ahead during December. Many tours include transportation between venues. See current food tour options in booking section below.

December Events & Festivals

First Saturday in December

Dominion Energy Christmas Parade

Richmond's largest holiday parade featuring over 100 entries, marching bands, and holiday floats traveling down Broad Street. Free viewing from sidewalks with best spots near the Science Museum and VCU campus areas.

December 1-23

Christmas at Maymont Mansion

Historic 1893 mansion decorated in period Victorian Christmas style with guided tours showcasing original furnishings and holiday traditions. Limited capacity requires advance booking through Maymont Foundation.

Mid to Late December

Richmond Symphony Holiday Concerts

Traditional holiday concerts at Carpenter Theatre featuring classic carols and seasonal favorites. Multiple performance dates throughout December with family-friendly matinees and evening shows.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - temperatures swing 20°F (11°C) daily, from morning lows of 29°F (-2°C) to afternoon highs of 46°F (8°C)

Waterproof boots with good tread - Richmond gets 86 mm (3.4 inches) of rain plus occasional ice, creating slippery brick sidewalks

Compact umbrella that fits in day bag - December rain comes suddenly and lasts 30-45 minutes typically

Warm, windproof jacket - James River creates wind tunnels downtown that make temperatures feel 5-10°F colder

Gloves and warm hat - essential for outdoor Civil War site visits and holiday light viewing tours

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries faster during long sightseeing days

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - Richmond's cobblestone streets in Shockoe Slip become treacherous when wet

Light scarf - useful for indoor/outdoor temperature transitions in museums and restaurants

Small backpack for layers - you'll be adding and removing clothing throughout the day

Minimal sunscreen SPF 30+ - UV index only reaches 2 in December but still necessary for river and outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Local Richmonders do their serious holiday shopping at Carytown between December 1-15, avoiding the weekend crowds that overwhelm the district later in the month

The best Civil War battlefield photography happens between 2-4 PM in December when low winter sun creates dramatic shadows across the historic landscapes

Richmond's restaurant scene peaks in December with special winter menus - make reservations by December 10th for holiday period dining, especially in The Fan and Church Hill neighborhoods

Free parking becomes available at VCU campus meters after 6 PM and weekends, perfect for accessing downtown holiday events without paying premium garage rates of $15-25

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating Richmond's December weather volatility - visitors pack for cold weather but get caught in 60°F (16°C) warm snaps or sudden ice storms within the same week

Booking outdoor activities without checking James River conditions - winter flooding and ice can close Belle Isle and riverside trails with little notice

Assuming all historic sites maintain winter hours - many Civil War battlefields reduce operating hours or close visitor centers on weekdays during December