Cranksgiving

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 is no longer in operation, was instrumental in bringing Cranksgiving to Baton Rouge in 2016.

In 2023, Bike Baton Rouge went on hiatus before eventually disolving in 2025. The Downtown East Social Ride agreed to host the event in 2024, and in 2025 the event was a standalone event coordinated in large part by Tina Ufford.

The 2025 event was held on Sunday, November 23rd at 10 a.m. Local media even joined us on the route. WBRZ sent a reporter to cover the ride, capturing the spirit of the event and why it matters to Baton Rouge. The Advocate also came out, documenting the day through photos that showcase the riders, the food donations, and the joy of the ride itself. Browse the gallery here.

The group of 10 riders managed to collect more than 200 pounds of food by bike. When a group that size can gather that much food powered solely by pedal strokes, it’s a reminder of one of Cranksgiving’s core lessons: a bike is more capable than most people realize. With a little planning and a lot of community spirit, you can get real work done on two wheels.

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.