Crews were making finishing touches to Burlington City Hall Friday night ahead of the State Ice Carving Competition this weekend.
The balmy December weather comes with mixed emotions for the ice sculptors.
"Is nice because you don't have to get layered up like you normally do, but the block isn't as good to sculpt in," said Josh Jakubowski.
Jakubowski is one of about a dozen sculptors from around the state going to Burlington to show off his craft.
"We prefer it to be in the 20's like low 20's," said Jakubowski.
Temperatures above 40 could be challenging.
"If it's exposed to the sun and the heat it's gonna get very crackly and soft and that will kind of tear the blocks apart pretty fast," said Jakubowski.
Jakubowski is up for the challenge.
"A lot of the sculptors will cover them up with a canopy and sun blocks and stuff like that," said Jakubowski.
Mayor Jeannie Hefty said the city is going its part to protect the ice from the elements.
"We're leaving the cardboard around it until they're ready to do their artistic talent....This is a two day event and we want the ice to keep it's integrity," said Hefty.
The warm weather might not be ideal conditions for the artists, but spectators might disagree.
"I think they'll be a good turnout and the sculptures should look pretty good," said Jakubowski.
For more about the Burlington Ice Festival, click here.
