Will you be in Minneapolis in February next year?

In February 2024, the cross-country skiing FIS World Cup will make its long-awaited return to the United States. After 22 years. So, mark your calendars to see the top XC skiers in beautiful Theodore Wirth Park. When? On President’s Day weekend, February 17th -19th.

The XC skiing World Cup is a prestigious international competition that brings together the world's best cross-country skiers to compete in various races. This thrilling event showcases exceptional athleticism, endurance, and speed, attracting spectators from all over the world. However the World Cup isn't just about the races themselves. It's also a celebration of the sport of cross-country skiing and the community that surrounds it.

This will be especially true in Minneapolis. Jessie Diggins, the most successful US Nordic skier and a native of Afton, Minnesota, has long advocated for bringing a World Cup event to Minneapolis to share the joy of the top-XC ski event with her Midwest and greater US ski community. Successful bid for March 2020 had to be unfortunately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, everyone is thrilled now for 2024.

Also because we can look forward to the full weekend of racing, as opposed to the originally planned sprint on Tuesday in 2020. On Saturday, February 17th, there will be a Sprint race, followed by an Interval race on Sunday, February 18th. Both of these events free for all to attend, thanks to the partnership with Share Winter Foundation. Additionally, plans are underway for a free-to-ski event at Theodore Wirth Park on Monday following the World Cup races.

Adding to the thrill is that the following week will host the largest cross-country ski race in North America, the American Birkebeiner, also known as the "Birkie." This exciting event will take place in Hayward, Wisconsin, a mere two and a half hours' drive away.

So, whether you're an avid cross-country skiing fan or just beginning to take an interest in the sport, don't miss the 2024 XC skiing World Cup in Minneapolis. It's sure to be an unforgettable event that you'll be talking about for years to come. Start planning your trip now and prepare to witness the world's best skiers compete in one of the most beautiful settings in the sport.