If you’re looking for an event that combines cycling, community spirit, and giving back, look no further than Cranksgiving in Baton Rouge. This annual event is more than just a bike ride – it’s a scavenger hunt, a food drive, and a celebration of community. As participants pedal through the city, they collect food and essential items that are donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, helping local families in need during the holiday season.
Taken during the 2017 Cranksgiving event.
What is Cranksgiving?
Cranksgiving started in New York City in 1999 as a way for cyclists to give back to their communities. Since then, it has expanded to cities across the nation. The concept combines the best aspects of a bike ride and a food drive, encouraging participants to ride to various grocery stores to purchase and collect food donations. It’s an opportunity for cyclists of all skill levels to join together, make a difference, and have fun doing it.
How it Works
The event is simple but impactful. Participants bring their own bikes and meet at a designated starting point, ready for an adventure through the city. Riders visit a series of locally owned grocery stores—including community favorites like Bet-R, Calandro’s (Mid City), Shoppers Value (Government Street), Matherne’s Grocery (downtown), and Rouse’s (Florida Blvd.)—to purchase non-perishable items. These items are then donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. While participation in Cranksgiving is free, riders typically spend around $30 on their contributions, knowing every purchase goes toward supporting local families.
Participant Steve Poss curchasing items from Trader Joe's on Perkins Road.
For families with younger children, there is often a special family-friendly ride led by an expert rider, which focuses on visiting just one location. It offers a safe and enjoyable way for everyone to participate, and, in keeping with safety regulations, children under the age of 12 are required to wear helmets.
A Connection to Baton Rouge through Bike Baton Rouge
The success and vibrancy of Cranksgiving in Baton Rouge are due, in large part, to the support and dedication of Bike Baton Rouge. This organization, which works to make biking safer and more accessible for all, was instrumental in bringing Cranksgiving to Baton Rouge in 2016 and has been a steadfast sponsor of the event. Their mission of promoting cycling as a viable mode of transportation and fostering community aligns perfectly with the spirit of Cranksgiving. Thanks to their efforts, the event has become a cherished tradition that brings together cyclists, families, and community-minded individuals.
In 2023, Bike Baton Rouge was unable to host the event because the organization went on a hiatus to regroup and reorganize. The Downtown East Social Ride agreed to host the event in 2024, with Bike Baton Rouge signing on to be a sponsor of the event.
More Ways to Give
Participants also have the opportunity to purchase the official Cranksgiving shirt at www.downtowneastsocialride.com/store. A portion of the proceeds from each shirt sold goes directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, offering another way for participants to make an impact.
An Everlasting Tradition of Giving
Cranksgiving reflects Baton Rouge’s community spirit by combining a love of cycling with a desire to give back. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist, a family looking for a meaningful activity, or someone who wants to support a good cause while exploring the city, Cranksgiving offers something special. Join the ride, give back, and pedal with a purpose—making every crank of the pedal count toward a brighter future for those in need.
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