The Town of Rocky Mountain House has announced the skating oval will not be opened for the holiday season.

Town officials say, normally their public works crew work for long, dark hours to pack a snow base and apply water to create the skating surface. However, November and December have had unseasonably warm weather, with average daily temperatures above freezing.

Historically the town has relied on 10-14 days of cold weather to get the job done.

Officials say given the forecast, it was impossible to prepare the oval for skating in time for Christmas. The Town hopes this notice gives families time to plan different fresh air activities over the Christmas break.

In the meantime, there are weekly public skating opportunities at the Rocky Regional Recreation Centre, including two free family skate times planned on December 23 and 24.

The Town says it is still hopeful the outdoor rink, which does not receive the same direct sun as the oval, could open.