Regina in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Regina
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak winter festival season with authentic prairie Christmas markets and Festival of Trees running through December 31st
- Wascana Centre transforms into a winter wonderland with 3 km (1.9 miles) of groomed cross-country ski trails and ice skating on Wascana Lake
- Indoor attractions like Royal Saskatchewan Museum and MacKenzie Art Gallery offer world-class exhibitions without summer tourist crowds
- December hotel rates drop 40-60% compared to summer peak season, with downtown properties averaging CAD $85-120 per night
Considerations
- Brutal cold with average windchill of -25°C (-13°F) makes outdoor activities challenging for more than 30-45 minutes at a time
- Limited daylight hours - sunrise at 8:47 AM, sunset at 4:42 PM gives you only 7 hours 55 minutes of natural light
- Many outdoor attractions like Buffalo Pound Provincial Park and bird watching areas are essentially inaccessible due to snow and ice conditions
Best Activities in December
Wascana Centre Winter Activities
December transforms Wascana Centre into Regina's winter playground. The 930-hectare (2,300-acre) park offers groomed cross-country skiing trails, outdoor ice skating on the frozen lake, and snowshoeing paths. The Wascana Marina becomes an ice fishing spot. Perfect December activity because the lake is fully frozen by mid-month and snow conditions are ideal.
Indoor Cultural Circuit
Regina's world-class indoor attractions shine in December. Royal Saskatchewan Museum features T.Rex Discovery Centre and First Nations Gallery. MacKenzie Art Gallery showcases contemporary Canadian art. Saskatchewan Science Centre offers hands-on exhibits perfect for escaping the cold. December is ideal because these venues extend holiday hours and feature special winter exhibitions.
Cathedral Village Winter Walking Tours
Regina's historic Cathedral Village becomes magical in December with heritage architecture covered in snow and local shops offering seasonal crafts. The 13th Avenue strip features unique Saskatchewan artisan goods and cozy cafes. Best done in 30-minute segments due to cold, but December offers the most authentic prairie winter atmosphere.
Government House and Grounds Winter Photography
Former lieutenant governor's residence offers impressive winter prairie photography opportunities. The 22-hectare (54-acre) grounds feature snow-covered formal gardens, and the 1891 building provides architectural contrast against white landscape. December offers the deepest snow coverage and clearest winter light for photography.
Regina Farmers Winter Market and Local Food Scene
December transforms Regina's food scene with winter farmers markets featuring Saskatchewan-grown root vegetables, local honey, and prairie-specific preserves. The indoor Cathedral Gaborone and downtown venues offer authentic prairie cuisine like tourtière and bison dishes perfect for cold weather.
RCMP Heritage Centre Experience
Canada's national police force museum becomes particularly meaningful in winter, showcasing the history of Mounties patrolling the harsh prairie landscape. Interactive exhibits include dog sled demonstrations and winter survival techniques used by early RCMP officers. December features special holiday programming and fewer crowds.
December Events & Festivals
Festival of Trees
Annual fundraising event featuring dozens of uniquely decorated Christmas trees displayed throughout downtown venues. Local businesses and artists create themed trees, and proceeds support children's charities. Includes live entertainment and holiday shopping opportunities.
Cathedral Village Winter Market
Weekly indoor market featuring Saskatchewan artisans, local food producers, and holiday crafts. Emphasis on prairie-made goods including wool items, preserves, and traditional Indigenous crafts. Warm indoor venue with live acoustic music.
New Year's Eve at Wascana Centre
Outdoor winter celebration featuring ice sculptures, bonfire, hot chocolate stations, and midnight fireworks over frozen Wascana Lake. Family-friendly event with activities starting at 8 PM. Bundle up for sub-zero temperatures but experience authentic prairie winter celebration.