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Sherbrooke - When to Visit

When to Visit Sherbrooke

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Sherbrooke Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -22°C -9°C 3°C 16°C 29°C Rainfall (mm) 0 63 127 Jan Jan: -5.0°C high, -17.0°C low, 74mm rain Feb Feb: -2.0°C high, -15.0°C low, 61mm rain Mar Mar: 2.0°C high, -9.0°C low, 71mm rain Apr Apr: 10.0°C high, -1.0°C low, 84mm rain May May: 18.0°C high, 4.0°C low, 94mm rain Jun Jun: 22.0°C high, 8.0°C low, 109mm rain Jul Jul: 24.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 109mm rain Aug Aug: 23.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 127mm rain Sep Sep: 19.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 94mm rain Oct Oct: 12.0°C high, 0.0°C low, 91mm rain Nov Nov: 5.0°C high, -4.0°C low, 99mm rain Dec Dec: -2.0°C high, -12.0°C low, 86mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Sherbrooke experiences a true continental climate with four distinct seasons that each bring their own character. Winters are long and serious—we're talking well below freezing from December through March, with January regularly dipping to -18°C (0°F). The city gets a proper winter with significant snowfall (that rainfall data translates to snow for the cold months). Summers are actually quite pleasant, with July and August reaching comfortable highs around 24°C (76°F), though you'll notice the precipitation picks up considerably during these months. The shoulder seasons offer pretty different experiences. Spring is a slow thaw—March still feels winter-like, but by May you're looking at genuine warmth. Autumn tends to be crisp and relatively dry in September before temperatures drop off quickly in November. Worth noting that humidity stays fairly consistent year-round at 70%, which means summer feels comfortable rather than muggy, but winter cold cuts right through you. The rainfall pattern is interesting—August is actually the wettest month at 127mm (5 inches), while winter months are drier in terms of total precipitation.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Late June through August offers the warmest weather, though Sherbrooke isn't really a beach destination—you'd be looking at lakeside activities rather than coastal relaxation.
Cultural Exploration
May through October gives you comfortable walking weather for exploring the city's museums, historic sites, and festivals without dealing with the harsh winter conditions.
Adventure & Hiking
June through September is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities in the surrounding Eastern Townships, with July and August offering the most reliable warm weather, though trails can be muddy from the higher rainfall.
Budget Travel
November through March (excluding holiday periods) tends to see fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices, though you'll need to embrace the cold and snow.

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What to Pack

Year-Round Essentials

Rain jacket or umbrella
Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, and summer months are actually the wettest.
Comfortable walking shoes
Sherbrooke's downtown and surrounding areas are best explored on foot, regardless of season.
Reusable water bottle
Tap water is excellent quality and you'll want to stay hydrated, especially during summer activities.
Sunglasses
Useful in summer for obvious reasons, but winter sun reflecting off snow can be surprisingly intense.
Day pack or small backpack
Essential for carrying layers as temperatures can vary significantly between morning and afternoon.
Lip balm and moisturizer
The dry winter air and indoor heating can be rough on skin, and even summer air conditioning creates dryness.

Spring (Mar-May)

Clothing
Medium-weight jacket, Long-sleeve shirts, Jeans or pants, Light sweater or fleece
Footwear
Waterproof boots or shoes—spring means mud and slush, especially in March and early April
Accessories
Light scarf, Baseball cap or sun hat, Light gloves for early spring
Layering Tip
Spring weather is unpredictable, so think in terms of adding and removing layers throughout the day as temperatures swing from near-freezing mornings to pleasant afternoons.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Clothing
T-shirts and short-sleeve shirts, Shorts, Light pants or jeans for cooler evenings, Light cardigan or hoodie
Footwear
Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes; sandals are fine for casual wear but you'll want closed-toe shoes for hiking
Accessories
Sunhat or cap, Sunglasses, Daypack for carrying rain gear
Layering Tip
Summers are comfortable rather than hot, so you'll still want a light layer for evenings—temperatures can drop 10-15 degrees after sunset.

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Clothing
Medium to heavy jacket, Long-sleeve shirts, Sweaters and fleeces, Warm pants
Footwear
Sturdy waterproof shoes or boots, especially by late October when conditions can be slushy
Accessories
Warm scarf, Gloves by November, Beanie or warm hat
Layering Tip
September can still feel summery during the day, but by November you're essentially dressing for winter—pack progressively warmer items if visiting for an extended period.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Clothing
Heavy winter coat (rated for -20°C/-4°F), Thermal underwear or base layers, Wool sweaters, Insulated pants
Footwear
Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good traction—ice and snow are guaranteed and sidewalks can be treacherous
Accessories
Warm winter hat that covers ears, Insulated gloves or mittens, Thick scarf or neck warmer, Hand and toe warmers
Layering Tip
Layering is critical in winter—you'll be moving between frigid outdoor temperatures and overheated indoor spaces, so wear multiple thin-to-medium layers rather than one bulky item.
Plug Type
Type A/B (same as United States)
Voltage
120V, 60Hz
Adapter Note
US travelers won't need an adapter; visitors from Europe, UK, Australia, and most other regions will need a Type A/B adapter

Skip These Items

Hair dryer—most accommodations provide one, and they're bulky to pack Heavy towels—hotels provide them, and they take up valuable luggage space Excessive toiletries—drugstores are everywhere and brands you know are readily available Formal wear unless you have specific plans—Sherbrooke is a university town with a casual vibe Beach gear—this isn't a beach destination, though there are some lakes in summer

Month-by-Month Guide

January

This is deep winter in Sherbrooke. Expect consistently cold days averaging -6°C (21°F) with nights dropping to -18°C (0°F). Snow is on the ground, and you'll want serious winter gear—this isn't the month for casual visitors unless you're here specifically for winter sports.

-6°C (21°F) High
-18°C (0°F) Low
74mm (2.9in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

Still firmly in winter's grip, though temperatures creep up slightly to -3°C (26°F) during the day. It's actually the driest winter month in terms of precipitation, which typically falls as snow. The cold is relentless but at least you're starting to see a bit more daylight.

-3°C (26°F) High
-16°C (3°F) Low
61mm (2.4in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

The beginning of a slow thaw, though don't be fooled—March still feels like winter with highs only reaching 2°C (36°F). You might see some melting during the day, but nights remain well below freezing. It's muddy season as snow starts to recede, and locals call this "mud season" for good reason.

2°C (36°F) High
-10°C (14°F) Low
71mm (2.8in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

Spring finally starts to show itself, with temperatures climbing to 10°C (50°F), though nights can still dip below freezing. The landscape transitions from brown to green, and you'll likely encounter a mix of rain and possibly late-season snow. Pack layers—mornings and evenings are still quite chilly.

10°C (50°F) High
-2°C (29°F) Low
84mm (3.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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May

This is when Sherbrooke really wakes up. Temperatures reach a pleasant 18°C (64°F), trees are fully leafed out, and outdoor cafés start opening. Nights are still cool at 4°C (39°F), but you can genuinely enjoy being outside during the day. A lovely time to visit before summer crowds arrive.

18°C (64°F) High
4°C (39°F) Low
94mm (3.7in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

Proper summer weather arrives with highs around 22°C (71°F) and comfortable nights at 8°C (47°F). The city is green and vibrant, though rainfall increases noticeably—you'll want to keep an umbrella handy. It's festival season in the Eastern Townships, and locals are making the most of the warm weather.

22°C (71°F) High
8°C (47°F) Low
109mm (4.3in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

July

Peak summer with the warmest temperatures of the year at 24°C (76°F). Nights are comfortable at 12°C (53°F), perfect for evening strolls. Expect regular rain showers—July ties with June for precipitation—but they tend to be afternoon thunderstorms rather than all-day affairs. This is prime tourist season.

24°C (76°F) High
12°C (53°F) Low
109mm (4.3in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

Still warm at 23°C (74°F), though you might notice summer starting to wind down toward month's end. Interestingly, August is actually the wettest month of the year, so rain gear is essential. The humidity combined with precipitation can make some days feel a bit heavy, but it's still excellent weather overall.

23°C (74°F) High
11°C (51°F) Low
127mm (5.0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

September

Early fall brings beautiful weather with highs around 19°C (66°F) and crisp nights at 6°C (43°F). The Eastern Townships start their famous fall foliage display, and crowds thin out after Labour Day. Rainfall moderates compared to summer, making this a genuinely pleasant time to visit.

19°C (66°F) High
6°C (43°F) Low
94mm (3.7in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

October

Peak fall foliage season with temperatures dropping to 11°C (53°F). Nights hover right around freezing, and by month's end you might see your first snowflakes. The landscape is stunning if you catch the leaves at their peak, typically mid-month. Bring warm layers for chilly mornings.

11°C (53°F) High
0°C (32°F) Low
91mm (3.6in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

Winter's approach is unmistakable with highs only reaching 5°C (41°F) and nights well below freezing at -4°C (24°F). The landscape turns grey and brown, leaves are gone, and snow becomes increasingly likely. It's a transitional month that locals tend to tolerate rather than enjoy—not the most appealing time for visitors.

5°C (41°F) High
-4°C (24°F) Low
99mm (3.9in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

December

Winter has fully arrived with daytime highs of -2°C (28°F) and nights dropping to -13°C (9°F). Snow is expected and the holiday season brings some festive atmosphere to downtown. If you're visiting for Christmas markets or winter activities, it's charming, but you'll need proper winter clothing.

-2°C (28°F) High
-13°C (9°F) Low
86mm (3.4in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

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