Northern Minnesotans know how to have a good time in the cold. For 36 years, one group of Bemidji area skiers have pulled off a unique celebration of both the extreme northern climate and extreme athleticism. Since its inception, the MN Finlandia Cross Country Ski Marathon has challenged thousands of cross country skiers to 25K , 50K , and (back in the day) 100K races through the northwoods of Minnesota. This year, the races take place February 17th at the Buena Vista Ski Area north of Bemidji.