Three days of true Birken spirit, mountain adventures, and ski joy await when SkiBirken takes place March 13–15, 2026. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to — and a glimpse of what’s new this winter.

Friday: SkateBirken, TurBirken and StafettBirken
Friday offers a varied program for both individuals and teams.

The popular SkateBirken continues — and in 2026 it will be held for the sixth time. New this year: you can now earn the Birken medal here as well! SkateBirken is a freestyle race from Rena to Lillehammer, crossing three mountains, and offers the same sense of challenge and mountain experience as the classic race. 

TurBirken Ski takes place the same day, where you choose your own start time, pace, and technique. The course is wide and well-prepared, with classic tracks on one side. TourBirken is perfect for those who want to enjoy the mountains and the Birken atmosphere without focusing on time or results.

At Birkebeineren Ski Stadium, the atmosphere will be lively with Right To Play RelayBirken – the big ski day for companies, friends, and families in Eastern Norway. In 2026 we’re improving the event: the legs will be slightly shorter (4.6 km), and the final leg will be a true “show-off stage” of about 1 km. Team spirit, ski joy, and après-ski with fire pits and music make this a celebration for everyone. 

Saturday: The Birkebeiner Race and HalfBirken Ski
The traditional Birkebeinerrennet will be held for the 86th time on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

53 kilometers on skis from Rena to Lillehammer, across three mountains and with a backpack – just like the birkebeiners who once carried the infant prince to safety. The race brings together elite skiers, recreational participants, and first-timers for a day of achievement, fellowship, and Norwegian ski history. 

On the same day, HalfBirken Ski also takes place – offering the same great Birken atmosphere in a shorter format. 28 kilometers of beautiful mountain terrain from Sjusjøen to Lillehammer, also with the traditional backpack. 

Sunday: YouthBirken, KidsBirken and Birken Ski UH
Sunday is the day for the youngest Birkebeiners – and for ski joy for everyone.

YouthBirken Ski gathers thousands of participants from all over Norway for the country’s largest youth ski race, in classic style from Sjusjøen to Lillehammer. Here you’ll find both recreational skiers and competitive athletes side by side. 

At the same time, KidsBirken is held – both at Rena and Lillehammer – for the youngest ones who want to experience the true Birken spirit. 

We also invite you to Birken Ski UH, an inclusive event for participants with developmental disabilities aged 16 and over. Everyone receives a medal at the finish line, in addition to prizes for the top three in each class. 

Happy participants – and Birken keeps growing
In 2025, more than 13,000 skiers took part in the SkiBirken events, and we expect even more in 2026. As many as 40 percent were first-time participants, and nearly half of all skiers are under 40 years old. New generations are finding their way to Birken – and the atmosphere has never been better.

Participants also give clear feedback:
The overall experience scores an impressive 8.2 out of 10, with particularly high ratings for the atmosphere along the course (8.7) and both the bib pickup and finish area (8.2). People are thriving at Birken, and we’re continuing to build on everything that makes it great.

We’re enhancing the experience even further
For 2026, we’re making several improvements to ensure an even smoother and better Birken experience:
• More toilets at the start area
• Improved signage and flow around bib pickup
• New measures to keep the course clean and pleasant for everyone

We aim to develop the entire Birken experience – before, during, and after race day – with a focus on great experiences, smooth logistics, and the true Birken spirit.

You don’t want to miss this!
SkiBirken is the ultimate winter goal – and an experience you’ll never forget. Sign up, set your goal, and become part of the community that keeps the tradition alive. March 13–15, 2026.