December’s cold, frosty weather brings snow sports enthusiasts back to British Columbia for the busy winter season. Hit the slopes at popular mountain resorts throughout the province, especially in the Rocky Mountains and around Vancouver. Not into skiing? Check out the big city attractions of Vancouver instead, or watch the storms roll in on Vancouver Island. Here’s what you can see, do, and experience in British Columbia in December.
December in British Columbia presents a diverse tapestry of weather conditions, making it a truly unique time to explore this vast Canadian province. From the northern reaches to the southern borders, and from the coastal regions to the towering mountains, the climate undergoes significant variations. Generally speaking, the northern, inland, and mountainous areas tend to experience colder temperatures compared to the more humid coastal regions. Therefore, a visit to British Columbia in December could mean anything from cool and damp conditions along the southern coast to bitterly cold weather in the northern and mountainous areas.
In **Vancouver**, nestled on the southwestern coast, the month of December maintains a relatively mild demeanor. The average minimum temperature hovers around 36°F (2°C), while the maximum temperature reaches approximately 43°F (6°C). These temperatures make **Vancouver** an appealing destination for those seeking a milder winter experience. However, as you venture inland, the weather takes a turn towards colder temperatures, and snow becomes a more frequent sight. Consider **Kelowna**, situated in the inland southern part of British Columbia, where the minimum temperature drops to 25°F (-4°C) and the maximum temperature only climbs to 34°F (1°C). The contrast is stark, highlighting the diverse climate zones within the province. For a truly frigid experience, head north to **Fort Nelson**, located in northeastern British Columbia at roughly the same latitude as Juneau, Alaska. Here, the minimum temperature plummets to a chilling -6°F (-21°C), while the maximum temperature barely reaches 7°F (-14°C). This stark contrast underscores the vast climatic differences across British Columbia.
December marks the high season for skiing and various winter sports in the resort towns nestled within the **Rocky Mountains** of British Columbia and Alberta, as well as the greater **Vancouver** area. Popular resort destinations, such as **Whistler**, **Revelstoke**, and **Kicking Horse**, experience a surge in visitors during this period. Consequently, it’s crucial to book accommodations well in advance, especially if your travel plans coincide with the Christmas and New Year holiday season when many individuals take extended vacations. Expect to encounter higher prices for both lodging and transportation to these sought-after winter destinations.
The period spanning from Christmas to New Year often sees ski resorts fully booked, making it challenging to secure accommodations. However, savvy travelers can often find more attractive deals in the periods leading up to and immediately following this peak season, particularly earlier in December when the ski season is just beginning to gain momentum. While many summer resorts and attractions in the interior regions close their doors during the winter months, coastal destinations present appealing deals for visitors seeking a milder winter escape.
**Vancouver** serves as an excellent hub for exploring British Columbia in December. Beyond its own relatively mild temperatures, the city enjoys close proximity to a plethora of exceptional ski resorts nestled in the nearby mountains. Destinations such as **Whistler**, **Grouse Mountain**, and **Cypress Mountain**, offer thrilling slopes and stunning alpine scenery. Beyond the allure of skiing, **Vancouver** boasts a wealth of city attractions, including the renowned **Museum of Anthropology** and the captivating **Vancouver Aquarium**, providing enriching cultural experiences. The city’s diverse culinary scene also beckons, offering a wide array of dining options to satisfy any palate.
For avid skiers, a visit to **Whistler Blackcomb** is an absolute must. As one of the largest ski areas in North America, this world-class resort played host to the 2010 Winter Olympics. Today, it continues to offer a diverse range of ski terrain, catering to both seasoned experts seeking extreme challenges and families with young children learning the ropes. The resort’s **Peak-to-Peak Gondola** stands as a remarkable feat of engineering, holding the title of the longest and highest gondola of its kind in the world. Whether you’re an avid skier or simply seeking breathtaking views, a scenic ride on the gondola is an experience not to be missed.
In another corner of the province, the **Powder Highway** gracefully encircles the **Kootenay** and **Selkirk Mountains**, granting access to a network of heli-ski operations and notable ski resorts. Destinations like **Revelstoke**, **Fernie**, and **Kicking Horse** boast impressive vertical drops, abundant powder snow, and vibrant ski town atmospheres, perfect for enjoying those lively *après-ski* gatherings.
Beyond the realm of snow sports, **Tofino**, situated on the wind-swept western shores of **Vancouver Island**, offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature in winter. This charming town has gained popularity as a storm-watching destination during the winter months. From the cozy comfort of a beachfront lodge, complete with expansive picture windows and a crackling fireplace, you can marvel at the giant ocean swells and intense rain squalls while savoring a glass of local British Columbia wine.
If your December travels take you to the **Vancouver** area, be sure to immerse yourself in the city’s festive Christmas and New Year celebrations. Experience the enchanting light shows at the Christmas Glow festival in **Langley**, witness the dazzling Canyon Lights at the **Capilano Suspension Bridge** in **North Vancouver**, or explore the VanDusen Festival of Lights at the beautiful **VanDusen Botanical Garden**. The Vancouver Christmas Market also provides a delightful holiday atmosphere, typically running until Christmas Eve. As the year draws to a close, numerous New Year’s Eve parties take place throughout the city, including boat parties on yachts, live music venues in **Gastown**, downtown hotels, and various other locations.
**Christmas**, celebrated **provincewide** on December 25, is a public holiday in Canada. Towns and cities throughout British Columbia host a multitude of markets, light festivals, and other Christmas-themed events.
**New Year’s Eve**, also celebrated **provincewide**, offers a chance to ring in the new year at one of the many parties held throughout British Columbia. January 1 is also a public holiday in Canada, providing a welcome opportunity to sleep in after the festivities.
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