Our Story
About us
In 1985 the Canadian Birkebeiner Society held its first Birkie. Now over 40 years later our participants can enjoy a three-day celebration of cross country skiing and Nordic Legends which takes place the second Friday, Saturday and Sunday in February every year. Since 2023 two cycle events are held in the summer months.
It is Western Canada’s Premier Nordic Ski Event and one of only three Birkebeiner Loppets in the world – Norway and the USA host the other two. Started in 1985, the Birkie continues the tradition of honouring perseverance, courage and fortitude…as well as lots of Nordic Fun for the whole family!
The event is staged by the not-for-profit Canadian Birkebeiner Society and celebrates the Nordic
Legend of two Viking warriors carrying an infant prince 55km over two mountain ranges in Norway in
1205.
The Society Is managed by an elected Board of about 12 volunteers who meet montly from August to April to plan and
carry out the events.
Volunteers, Staff & VaCancies
The Canadian Birkie Ski Festival Events are led by the board of the Canadian Birkebeiner Society. Approximately 500 volunteers contribute to make our events happen together with the support of a part-time staff member
At this moment the Canadian Birkebeiner Society is not recruiting for staff members. Please find our available Volunteer positions here.
