This year’s Minne-Loppet program had the highest number of participants in program history! Our 8-10 week cross-country ski program teaches around 700 third, fourth, and fifth graders who attend one of our 11 North Minneapolis partner schools the fundamentals of cross-country skiing and healthy eating. The primary goal is to help these children build self-confidence, pride in their abilities, and a love of outdoor activity by learning to ski in a supportive environment. . This year, it was intended for the program to conclude with the Share Winter Minne-Loppet Parade and “race” at the Fastenal Parallel 45 Winter Festival this month. Unfortunately due to COVID-19, the festival was canceled, but we still wanted to recognize these children and the effort they put into learning this sport by sharing some pictures from the Minne-Loppet event at this year’s City of Lakes Loppet Festival in February. . 📷: Jayme Halbritter Photography