Thanks to snowfarming, cross-country skiing takes center stage as early as October. In the “Little Tibet,” registrations for the Sgambeda are now open, combining sport, culture, and tradition.

Even though memories of a truly remarkable summer, filled with major events, mindful tourism, and plenty of sports, are still fresh in Livigno, the first days of autumn have already brought a glimpse of the future, hinting at the eagerly awaited snow season. In this “Little Tibet,” winter comes earlier than elsewhere, especially for cross-country skiing, thanks to the snowfarming technique. This allows for an early loop of natural snow, stored at the end of the previous season, to be ready by late October. This unique feature, combined with the extraordinary microclimate, attracts top athletes from the circuit in the weeks leading up to the World Cup. These high-level international athletes have been choosing “Little Tibet” for their training for years, and this season, the last before the major Olympic event in 2026, they’ll be found on Livigno’s snow once again.

As temperatures temporarily drop in recent days and with just a month to go until the first outings, the spirit of a place with a special bond to cross-country skiing comes to life. This bond isn’t just reflected in the number of champions who choose the area for training but also in the traditional Sgambeda race, now in its 34th edition. The race has become a symbol of Livigno’s collective passion, as a community, for sports and cross-country skiing in particular.

There’s great anticipation for this event, which over the years has carved out a special place in the hearts of both local enthusiasts and visitors. They’re always enchanted by the triangle of sport, culture, and tradition offered by the event. The start and finish near the town center provide a unique setting, with high emotional involvement, while maintaining the technical complexity of a significant course. This creates the blend of sport and magic that has always distinguished skiing at these altitudes.

This year’s Sgambeda is scheduled for Sunday, December 15, but online registrations are already open, with interesting promotions available in the early weeks. It’s the perfect opportunity to secure your bib number and ensure a spot for a special day dedicated to sports and local culture, as well as a pleasant reminder that winter is coming everywhere, but in Livigno, rest assured, it arrives earlier.