Are you dreaming of a snowy, white Christmas?
If you’re hoping to wake up to a snow-covered Columbus on Christmas morning, history — and this year’s forecast — say it’s possible, but far from guaranteed. According to the 2026 Old Farmer’s Almanac and long-term NOAA data, Central Ohio sits squarely in a holiday weather gray zone: the Ohio Valley has a chance of a white Christmas, which in weather terms means “don’t cancel your snowman plans, but maybe don’t buy the sled just yet.”
Historical context: Columbus Christmas weather memories
Christmas in Columbus has delivered just about everything over the years. With weather records dating back to 1878, the city has seen mild holidays, deep freezes, and the occasional winter wonderland.
- Warmest Christmas Day high: 64°F (1893)
- Coldest Christmas Day high: 1°F (1983)
- Coldest Christmas Day low: -12°F (1983)
- Average Christmas Day high: 37°F
- Average Christmas Day low: 24°F
Snow on Christmas Day isn’t unusual, but meaningful snowfall is another story — the average Christmas brings just 0.3 inches of snow.
So… what are the odds of a white Christmas?
A “white Christmas” is officially defined as having at least one inch of snow on the ground Christmas morning. In Columbus, that’s a pretty special occasion.
Since snow depth measurements began in 1948, the city has seen a white Christmas only about 26% of the time. During the most recent 30-year climate period (1991–2020), the odds improved slightly to about 33%.
The most recent white Christmas? 2022, when 4 inches of snow blanketed the city.
What the Old Farmer’s Almanac says for Christmas 2025
Looking ahead, the 2026 Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a generally milder winter than average across much of the U.S. For the Ohio Valley, that translates to — you guessed it — a chance of a white Christmas, especially in eastern parts of the region.
In other words: snow is on the table, but this isn’t shaping up to be a lock for a postcard-perfect holiday morning.
What to expect heading into Christmas week
For Central Ohio, the outlook points to:
- Temperatures hovering near or slightly above average
- Occasional chances for snow, but no guarantee it sticks around
- Cloudy stretches with the potential for rain mixed in
The days leading up to Christmas — including the winter solstice — are expected to be relatively mild, making it a great excuse for long walks, last-minute shopping, or an extra holiday movie marathon.
The bottom line
Columbus loves to keep us guessing, and Christmas weather is no exception. While a white Christmas isn’t the most likely outcome, it’s far from impossible — which is part of the fun.
So keep the hot chocolate ready, the boots by the door, and your expectations flexible. Whether it’s white, gray, or just chilly, the holiday spirit still counts.
Featured image by Zach Vessels on Unsplash.
