Thanks to a stretch of cold weather, Rocky’s outdoor skating surfaces are open just in time for the holidays.

Town officials confirm the 400-metre oval rink at Curtis Field and the outdoor rink near the recreation centre are now open.

Public works crews took advantage of the chilly forecast, laying down about 325 cubic metres of water on the skating oval. In a typical year, crews say about 10 days of cold weather are needed for the rink to properly freeze.

Skaters are encouraged to share the ice, said Laura Button, communications co-ordinator for the Town of Rocky Mountain House. She said participants should watch for children and those learning to skate.

With newly installed lighting masts at Curtis Field, residents can skate well into the evening.

“We do ask people to keep sticks and pucks on the outdoor rink,” Button said. “Please stick to skating only on the oval.”

Button said crews will work to keep the surfaces clear throughout the season.