Teams carving blocks at the International Snow Sculpture Championships in Breckenridge

Breck by month

Breckenridge in December

Ullr Fest, the holidays and more of the mountain opening every week.

Photo: 420 Photography, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Breck in December

What December is like at Breck

December is when Breck starts to feel like a ski town. More terrain opens as the storms build up the base, Main Street gets its lights, and the town throws its biggest party of the winter, Ullr Fest, in the middle of the month.

The first half of December is often good value. The last week, from Christmas to New Year, is the busiest week of the season.

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  • Average snowfall in town23.8 in
  • Average high / low in town28 °F / 0 °F
  • HolidaysChristmas, New Year’s Eve
  • EventsUllr Fest, Dec 17 to 19

Snow, crowds and events

December at a glance

More terrain each week

The base is still building.

Town averages about 24 inches of snow in December. The upper mountain and the bowls open as conditions allow, so what's open on December 1 and December 20 can be very different.

Lighting of Breckenridge

Early December.

The town lights up Main Street with the Race of the Santas and a dog parade. It's outdoors and usually very cold, so dress for it.

Ullr Fest

December 17 to 19, 2026.

Breck's celebration of Ullr, the Norse god of snow, is in its 63rd year. Thursday has the crowning of the Ullr King and Queen, a record attempt at the longest shotski on Main Street, the Ullr Parade and a bonfire. The free Rockstar Energy Open snowboard contest runs at the resort from December 18 to 20.

Christmas to New Year

The busiest week of the year.

Expect long lines at the base lifts, full parking lots and busy restaurants. Book everything early, start at Peak 9 and stay up the mountain once you're there.

FAQ

Questions people ask

Is December a good time to ski Breckenridge?

December is when Breck starts to feel like a ski town. More terrain opens as the storms build up the base, Main Street gets its lights, and the town throws its biggest party of the winter, Ullr Fest, in the middle of the month.

Keep exploring

More from Breck by month

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Quick tip

Ski & snowboard rental

Book online before you arrive and pick your gear up in town the evening before. The morning rush at the base shops can eat your first hour, and booking ahead can be cheaper.

Quick tip

Lift tickets & the Epic Pass

Breck is on the Epic Pass. Buying a ticket at the window on the day is the most expensive way up the hill, so buy ahead online or look at an Epic Day Pass if you're here for a few days.

The Friday snow email

One short email a week in season: what fell, what's open, and where to ride this weekend.