FARMINGTON – School vacationers can soon glide across Hippach Field’s skating rink, said Recreation Director Steve Shible on Tuesday.

Predicting an opening by Jan. 1, rec department workers have been flooding the nearly 8,500-square-foot rink despite setbacks from warm weather. Cooler temperatures predicted over the New Year’s holiday should help the ice set.

“We’re trying to build a base that will cover any high spots that skaters could trip on,” he said.

Once the winter recreation program opens, skaters can glide daily from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., weather permitting. The season will extend to about Feb. 16.

While primarily used for general skating, the department plans to provide time for skaters to play shinny (no lifting) hockey. Hockey nights will be held Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 5 to 6 p.m. for grades K-6. Other suggested times include 6 to 7 p.m. for middle and high school students and from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. for college students and adults.

No hockey will be allowed at any time on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

Shelter and supervision will be available from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, noon to 8:30 p.m. Sunday.

An updated field house offers a propane heater/wood stove, a heated restroom, padded benches, individual storage cubbies for footwear, a telephone, microwave and water heater with hot chocolate packets and cups available for 25 cents.

The department will also make some accessories and sporting equipment available.

For more information, call the Farmington Recreation Department at 778-3464 or the Hippach Field field house at 778-3444.