If you’re planning to travel or host family for Thanksgiving in New York this year, you might be wondering whether you’ll need a snow shovel or sunglasses. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the state could see a mix of both, depending on where you live. The almanac warns that its forecasts are best used for holiday planning, not precise day-by-day conditions.
“They’re perfect for planning, but not a substitute for daily local forecasts,” the publication said.
What the almanac predicts for Thanksgiving week
For the Northeast region, which includes New York, the almanac predicts “colder than average” temperatures leading into Thanksgiving. Northern New England may see some snow, while the southern half of the region — including much of downstate New York — is expected to enjoy a crisp, sunny holiday. Along the Atlantic corridor, including New York City and Long Island, the week will likely start mild before turning chilly by Thanksgiving Day, with dry and sunny conditions expected for holiday travel.
What about the rest of winter?
Looking beyond Thanksgiving, the 2025–26 Old Farmer’s Almanac Winter Forecast calls for a season that’s “mostly mild – with pockets of wild” across the U.S. In New York, conditions will vary by region:
Snowfall predictions for New York
Whether New Yorkers will see a white Christmas depends on where they are.
For context, last year’s snow totals (2024–25) were:
Average snowfall in the state typically ranges from 25–31 inches downstate to 95–127 inches across western and central New York, according to the National Weather Service.
When does winter officially begin?
The winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, falls on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. That’s when the Northern Hemisphere tilts farthest from the sun, marking the official start of winter.
How accurate is the almanac?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, first published in 1792, says its long-range forecasts are based on a blend of solar science, climatology, and meteorology. The publication claims an 80% accuracy rate, though forecasters advise checking local weather reports as Thanksgiving approaches.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Old Farmer’s Almanac gives outlook for snow on Thanksgiving in New York
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
