December in Michigan is pure winter magic. With crisp air, snow-covered landscapes, and blissful winter temperatures, it’s the season to bundle up and embrace the outdoors or take advantage of great indoor fun.
Whether you are visiting our winter wonderland or planning a trip during warmer weather, our vacation guide is ideal for discovering the best things to do and fantastic places to stay.
Vacation Guide
Skiers and snowboarders head to local ski resorts, while those seeking quieter adventures find endless trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Northern Michigan’s peaceful forests. Off the slopes, the charm continues—towns glow with holiday lights, Christmas markets brim with festive cheer, and seasonal celebrations make every weekend feel special. Whether you’re chasing powder or soaking up the holiday spirit, December is a wonderful time to experience Michigan at its most magical.
What to Pack for Winter in Michigan
Warm winter layers will be your friend when visiting Michigan in December. Pack waterproof shoes or boots, a warm outer layer, and a good base layer. These packing essentials will help you be prepared for anything the weather brings. Add clothing and accessories based on your planned activities and itinerary.
Southeastern Michigan in December
Weather
- Temperature: Daily high temperatures in the Detroit area average around 42°F, with lows around 31°F. Temperatures drop as the month progresses, with average daily highs near 34°F and lows around 23°F.
- Precipitation: Southeast Michigan receives approximately 2.25 inches of precipitation in December (typically falling as snow), which varies by year and specific location within the region.
- Wind: December is typically one of the windiest months, with average wind speeds often exceeding 10 mph.
Things to Do
Festivals & Events
- Nite Lights Drive Thru Christmas Light Show – Brooklyn, MI
- There’s Snow Place Like Northville Family Day – Northville, MI
- Nutcracker Ballet – Detroit, MI
Browse our fantastic selection of vacation rentals in southeastern Michigan and book the one that’s right for you.
Western Michigan in December
Weather
- Temperature: Western Michigan is typically cold, cloudy, and experiences significant snowfall (due to the “lake effect” from Lake Michigan). Temperatures are consistently below freezing or hover just above it, and skies are frequently gray. Average daytime highs are typically under 41°F, with lows in the 20s.
- Precipitation: Coastal cities bear the brunt of lake-effect snow, while locations just 10–15 miles inland may receive significantly less. Expect over 2.72 inches of snow during the month.
- Wind: The average wind speeds can vary by location, with coastal cities like Grand Rapids being particularly affected by winds off of Lake Michigan.
Things to Do
Festivals & Events
- Enlighten at Meijer Gardens – Grand Rapids, MI
- Christkindl Markt – Grand Rapids, MI
- Home for the Holidays – Around the World – Muskegon, MI
Freshwater Vacation Rentals offers wonderful Western Michigan rentals for your December adventure—reserve yours today.
Central & Mid-Michigan in December
Weather
- Temperature: December is characterized by steadily dropping temperatures, increasing snowfall, cloudy days, and shorter daylight hours. Average temperatures drop from the low 40s to the mid-30s. The average daily low temperatures drop from the low 30s down to the low 20s.
- Precipitation: Precipitation includes 2 to 3 inches of rainfall and snowfall, which are influenced by temperature and moisture from the Great Lakes.
- Wind: Expect noticeably windier conditions in December, with average wind speeds often exceeding 15 mph.
Things to Do
Festivals & Events
- Jingle Mingle Holiday Market – Cadillac, MI
- Tales of Christmas Past – Midland, MI
- A Celtic Family Christmas – Saginaw, MI
We can’t wait for you to have a look at our central & mid-Michigan rentals and select one for your getaway.
Northern Michigan in December
Weather
- Temperatures: December in Northern Michigan is characterized by cold temperatures and increasing snowfall. Daily highs typically decrease from the high 30s to the low 30s by the month’s end, while lows drop from high to low 20s.
- Precipitation: TheTraverse City area averages 145 inches of snow annually, with a generous portion of that total falling in December.
- Wind: Much like the rest of the state, December is typically a windy month in this region.
Things to Do
Festivals & Events
- Victorian Sleighbell Parade – Manistee, MI
- Holiday Market – Charlevoix, MI
- An Evening with Todd Goddard – Traverse City, MI
Find the perfect vacation rental and book your stay to stay warm & cozy during your northern Michigan visit.
Upper Peninsula in December
Weather
- Temperature: The weather in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) is typically cold and very snowy, making it a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Average high temperatures are in the upper 20s°F, and lows are in the teens. Although temperatures can fall into the negative digits.
- Precipitation: The UP experiences significant snowfall in December. Unlike other parts of Michigan, the snow typically sticks around for the entire winter, providing a consistent base for winter activities.
- Wind: Visitors can expect heavy winds and storms during the month of December.
Things to Do
- Skiing
- Northern Lights
- Dog Sledding
There are so many incredible things to do in winter in the Upper Peninsula!
Festivals & Events
- Lonestar & Collin Raye Christmas & Hits Tour – Harris, MI
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Musical – Marquette, MI
- The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-Off, Musical – Escanaba, MI
We would be thrilled to help you find a beautiful vacation rental for your getaway to the Upper Peninsula.
December in Michigan is a magical time to escape for the holiday season or to indulge in your favorite winter sports. From exhilarating snowmobiling to nostalgic Christmas productions, there is so much to see and do in the Wolverine State, despite the dropping temperatures. Start planning your retreat to our winter oasis today. Spend your holidays exploring our winter wonderland!