Xiangyang has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the most comfortable times to visit: mild temperatures, lower humidity, and the walls and Gulongzhong both look their best with seasonal foliage. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C and the city is humid, making outdoor walking on the walls and at Gulongzhong tiring. Winter can drop to near freezing but is dry; the walls are quieter in winter and the early-morning mist over the Han River has a particular quality.
There are no major festivals specific to Xiangyang that would be a reason to time a visit, though the Three Kingdoms Cultural Tourism Festival is held in spring and brings performances and events related to the city's Three Kingdoms history. High-speed rail connections mean the city can be visited year-round without difficulty.