Rochester in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Rochester
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak holiday season with Rochester's Christmas Market (December 7-22) featuring 80+ vendors, mulled wine, and authentic German-style wooden huts in Washington Square Park
- Exceptional indoor cultural programming - Eastman Theatre hosts 25+ holiday concerts, Strong Museum extends hours until 8pm weekdays with special winter exhibits
- Lower hotel rates mid-week (Sunday-Thursday) as business travel drops 60% in December, with downtown properties offering 30-40% discounts
- Reliable snow activities at nearby Powder Mills Park (15 km/9.3 miles south) with 8 km (5 miles) of maintained cross-country ski trails and equipment rental on-site
Considerations
- Severe weather can disrupt flights at ROC airport - December has highest cancellation rate at 18% due to lake-effect snow from Lake Ontario
- Extremely limited daylight with sunset at 4:47pm on winter solstice, giving only 9 hours 2 minutes of daylight for sightseeing
- Many outdoor attractions close completely - this destination, boat tours, and Baku trails become inaccessible due to snow accumulation
Best Activities in December
Highland Park Conservatory Winter Gardens
Rochester's tropical oasis becomes a sanctuary during December's harsh weather. The Victorian-era glass conservatory maintains 24°C (75°F) year-round with exotic plants, perfect for escaping -11°C (12°F) outdoor temperatures. December features special holiday displays with poinsettias and seasonal arrangements. Locals flock here during the 4:30pm sunset hour.
Finger Lakes Wine Trail Winter Tours
December is prime season for Finger Lakes wineries (45 minutes south) as harvest is complete and tasting rooms offer cozy fireplaces. Many vineyards serve mulled wines and holiday foods. Roads are well-maintained between major wineries, and smaller crowds mean personal attention from winemakers. Temperature stays above -7°C (20°F) during day trips.
George Eastman Museum Holiday Programs
this destination transforms into a 1920s holiday celebration with period decorations throughout 50 rooms. December features special photography exhibitions and daily 2pm mansion tours focusing on Eastman's holiday traditions. The gardens are beautifully snow-covered for photography, and indoor temperature stays comfortable at 21°C (70°F).
Rochester Public Market Winter Indoor Sessions
Saturday market moves 75% of vendors indoors during December, creating a heated artisan marketplace. Local vendors sell winter produce, maple products, and holiday crafts. Open 6am-3pm Saturdays with peak activity 9am-noon when locals shop for weekend meals. Indoor temperature maintained at 18°C (65°F).
Geva Theatre Winter Performance Season
Rochester's premier professional theatre runs holiday shows throughout December including annual productions and world premieres. The intimate 552-seat venue offers excellent sightlines and stays warm at 22°C (72°F). December typically features family-friendly holiday productions plus contemporary dramas.
Seneca Park Zoo Arctic Animals Winter Experience
December is optimal for viewing cold-weather animals like polar bears, arctic foxes, and snow leopards who are most active in sub-zero temperatures. Many tropical animals move to heated indoor viewing areas, creating intimate viewing opportunities. Zoo maintains heated visitor areas and serves hot beverages.
December Events & Festivals
Rochester Christmas Market
German-style holiday market with 80+ vendors selling crafts, food, and mulled wine in heated wooden huts. Features live music Friday-Sunday evenings and authentic European holiday atmosphere in downtown Washington Square Park.
Festival of Trees at Strong National Museum of Play
Over 100 decorated trees and holiday displays throughout the museum, plus extended evening hours with special lighting. Includes model train displays and holiday-themed interactive exhibits for all ages.
Rochester Philharmonic Holiday Pops Series
Annual holiday concert series at Eastman Theatre featuring classical and contemporary holiday music. Multiple performances accommodate different schedules, with some matinee options for families.