Things to Do in Montpelier in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Montpelier
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Vermont State House dome illuminated nightly in December creates stunning photography opportunities without tourist crowds
- Local maple syrup producers offer winter harvest tours and candy-making workshops only available December through February
- Cross-country ski trails at Hubbard Park (182 hectares/450 acres) typically have reliable snow base by mid-December with groomed tracks
- December restaurant week features prix fixe menus at $25-35 per person, significantly lower than summer tourism pricing
Considerations
- Daylight hours limited to 8.5 hours with sunset by 4:15 PM, severely restricting outdoor activity time
- State government buildings and many attractions operate on reduced winter schedules with some closed entirely
- Parking downtown becomes challenging due to snow removal and limited street parking availability
Best Activities in December
Vermont State House Holiday Tours
Self-guided tours of the gold-domed capitol building decorated for holidays. December offers the rare combination of festive decorations and minimal crowds. The building's heated interior provides respite from sub-zero temperatures, and the dome's evening illumination creates dramatic photo opportunities against snow-covered grounds.
Hubbard Park Winter Trail Networks
This 182-hectare (450-acre) park transforms into Vermont's premier urban winter sports destination. Cross-country ski rentals available in town for $20-30/day. December snow accumulation typically reaches 30-45 cm (12-18 inches), creating ideal conditions for both skiing and snowshoeing without the January deep freeze.
Local Brewery Winter Warming Tours
Montpelier's craft breweries offer heated tasting rooms and seasonal winter ales only available November-February. December features limited-batch holiday stouts and maple-infused seasonal brews. Indoor venues provide perfect weather refuge while sampling Vermont's craft beer culture.
Maple Syrup Farm Winter Operations
December marks the beginning of maple candy and cream production season at farms within 16 km (10 miles) of downtown. Many producers offer heated barn tours, candy-making demonstrations, and tastings. This is the only time of year to see the complete maple-to-candy process in action.
Historic Downtown Architecture Walks
December's bare trees reveal full architectural details of 19th-century buildings normally obscured by foliage. Snow-covered streets create postcard-worthy scenes, and reduced foot traffic allows for unobstructed photography of historic facades. Many buildings feature holiday decorations visible only in December.
December Events & Festivals
Capital City Concerts Holiday Series
Local musicians perform holiday concerts in various heated venues throughout downtown. Features both classical and contemporary holiday music in intimate settings. Tickets typically $15-25 and venues rarely sell out, making it accessible for last-minute decisions.
First Friday Art Walk Holiday Edition
Downtown galleries extend hours until 8 PM on first Friday of December with holiday-themed exhibitions and heated spaces for browsing. Local artists often present winter Vermont landscapes and many pieces reflect the season's stark beauty.