The Best And Worst Months For An Outdoor Wedding
Planning an outdoor wedding ceremony can be pure magic—sunlit vows, fresh air, and nature’s own decor. But the timing? That’s where it gets tricky. Choosing the best month for your outdoor wedding depends heavily on where in the United States you’re tying the knot. What’s perfect weather in California could mean surprise snow in New England. Whether you’re envisioning a spring wedding in a botanical garden or a fall wedding under colorful leaves, here’s a regional breakdown of the best and riskiest months for an outdoor wedding, so you can choose your wedding date with confidence—and know when to have that backup plan ready.
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Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, New England)
From charming coastal towns to historic estates nestled in the hills, the Northeast is full of storybook settings for outdoor wedding ceremonies. But with four distinct seasons and rapidly changing weather, timing is everything.
Best Months:
May to Mid-June and Mid-September to Early October
These months offer mild weather, fewer bugs, and lovely natural backdrops—from blooming spring gardens to vibrant fall foliage. The average temperature during these windows tends to hover in the 60s and 70s—ideal for both afternoon ceremonies and evening receptions.
Late spring offers long sunny days and great light for your wedding photos. Early fall is beloved for crisp air, golden light, and peak leaf color.
Riskiest Months:
Late October through April
Snow can linger into late March, and April showers are very real. The winter months are beautiful for a winter wedding, but risky for outdoor events due to freezing temps and unpredictable weather. The end of October can bring early frosts, especially in the mountains.
Tip: In the Northeast, having an indoor option or Plan B is the most important thing, even in peak season. The weather can shift quickly. If your wedding venue has no indoor option, consider having a large, reliable tent on hand. This highly rated tent by PHI VILLA costs less than what it would cost to rent one, and comfortably fits 80-100 people for a seated event.
Read More: 10 Unique Themes for Small, Intimate Weddings
Southeast (Georgia, Florida, Carolinas, Tennessee)
Known for its lush landscapes and gracious hospitality, the Southeast is a great choice for couples dreaming of a warm-weather celebration. Just be sure to consider the region’s heat and humidity when selecting your wedding date.
Best Months:
Mid-March to Early May and Late September to Mid-November
This region shines in spring months and late fall, offering comfortable temperatures, blooming azaleas, and plenty of sunny days. For Tennessee weddings, early fall is a perfect time of year—you’ll still have that rustic charm without the high temperatures of summer.
Riskiest Months:
Late May through Early September
The summer months in the Southeast can be sweltering. July weddings in particular come with high temperatures and serious humidity, making it tough on your wedding guests, not to mention your hair and makeup. Afternoon thunderstorms are common—a good idea is always having an indoor area or tent on standby.
Tip: If you’re considering an outdoor venue in Florida, always ask about a Plan B in case of hurricanes, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season (June through November).
Read More: How Cold is Too Cold for an Outdoor Wedding?
Midwest (Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri)
From lakeside venues to open countryside, the Midwest offers beautiful and varied options for outdoor wedding plans. However, extreme seasonal shifts mean your window for perfect weather is a bit narrower.
Best Months:
Late May through June and September through Early October
The spring wedding season in the Midwest brings budding trees and mild temperatures. September and early October are peak wedding season here, offering crisp air and golden fields—ideal for that rustic outdoor ceremony or barn reception.
Riskiest Months:
November through March and Mid-July to August
The winter months are often too cold for outdoor events, and summer can be hot and stormy- especially in July. Watch out for heat waves and bugs in August. Late fall can also be a gamble, with colder evenings setting in fast.
Tip: If your venue doesn’t have an indoor wedding option, make sure your wedding planner helps you think through outdoor wedding plans in case of a sudden drop in temperature.
Read More: 27 Gorgeous In-Season Winter Hardy Wedding Flowers
Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, West Texas)
If dramatic desert scenery or canyon backdrops are on your vision board, the Southwest might be your perfect place. Just remember that heat and dryness are key factors in this region’s wedding planning process.
Best Months:
Late October through April
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding in the desert, avoid the hottest months. The winter months here offer gorgeous sunsets and mild days—perfect weather for an outdoor wedding ceremony. Late fall and early spring have the best weather and aren’t as tourist-heavy. Phoenix and Las Vegas see ideal temps in March, April, and November.
Riskiest Months:
May through September
Summer brings extreme heat. July and August, in particular, can be dangerously hot, with high temperatures soaring into triple digits- definitely not ideal for a tented dance floor or afternoon wedding.
Tip: The best light in desert regions is just after sunrise or during golden hour before sunset- perfect for your first look or couple portraits.
West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington)
From sun-soaked vineyards to misty forests, the West Coast offers some of the country’s most photogenic wedding venues. But thanks to the diversity in climate from north to south, your ideal month will vary by exact location.
Best Months:
Late April through June and September through October
In coastal areas, early summer offers that magical mix of cooler temperatures and clear skies. The late spring and early fall windows are widely considered the best time of year for outdoor ceremonies, thanks to fewer crowds and a lower chance of rain.
In Southern California, even late fall can feel like summer. Northern California and Pacific Northwest weddings are safest in July to early September, when skies are clearest.
Riskiest Months:
November through March (especially in the Pacific Northwest)
Rain, wind, and overcast skies can interfere with both your ceremony and your wedding photos. If you’re planning a winter wedding in California, opt for SoCal where it’s drier—November is often the driest month there.
Tip: Consider venues with both indoor and outdoor options, like wineries or coastal estates, which let you adapt based on the time of day and forecast.
Concluding Thoughts: Choosing the perfect wedding month comes down to more than just the most popular wedding months. The average temperature, regional weather patterns, and how prepared your wedding venue is for a Plan B all matter. The best bet is to align your date with your region’s ideal time for outdoor events- and always plan with flexibility in mind. Remember, even with the riskiest months, a little preparation can go a long way. Tents, backup spaces, and an experienced wedding planner will keep your big day beautiful- rain or shine.
