Haligonians have a limited time left to enjoy the ice at the Emera Oval located in the Halifax Common. The municipality has announced that the popular outdoor skating rink is set to close for the season on Sunday, March 16, unless warm weather causes the ice to melt sooner.

Officials from the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) are actively monitoring the conditions of the ice on a daily basis. In a recent statement, they indicated that if the ice begins to deteriorate, the Emera Oval could close earlier than planned. This precautionary measure underscores the importance of maintaining a safe skating environment for all visitors.

The Emera Oval is notable for being the largest outdoor artificially refrigerated surface situated east of Quebec. Its impressive dimensions, equivalent to that of three NHL rinks, allow it to operate effectively in warmer conditions thanks to its refrigeration technology. This feature is particularly advantageous as it permits extended skating seasons compared to natural ice rinks.

This week, unseasonably warm temperatures are settling into Nova Scotia. Forecasts indicate that multiple days will experience temperatures well above 0 degrees Celsius. With ample sunshine expected from Tuesday through Friday, visitors planning to skate are encouraged to keep an eye on shifting weather conditions that may affect ice quality.

Before visiting the Oval, the municipality advises checking the skating schedule on the city’s official website. There may be changes to skate times, including potential delays or cancellations based on the daily condition of the ice. This pre-emptive step ensures that everyone can have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Looking forward to the warmer months, the Emera Oval will transition into a venue for rollerblading, skateboarding, and other outdoor activities during the summer season. This repurposing reflects the city's commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities year-round.