Roll out for the for 4th annual two-wheeled food drive! Part bike ride, part food drive, part scavenger hunt -- and all about community.
Cranksgiving Chicago Chapter is ready to roll again in 2025!
Every year, throughout the country, shops and individuals organize Cranksgiving events to help provide thousands of those in need with a food during the holiday season. Our annual Chicago food drive/scavenger hunt by bike gets rolling on Saturday, November 24 at noon from Cosmic Bikes in Jefferson Park.
Over the last three years Cranksters here on the NW side contributed hundreds of pounds of holiday food, pantry staples and personal care items to folks in need through New Hope Pantry.
The event will begin with registration and check-in at 12 noon at Cosmic Bikes (with some energizing beverages and snacks on hand). The event is free, but you will need money to purchase food and other items to be donated. All riders will receive a list of items to buy from specific grocery stores around the NW Side, all accessible via local roads and trails.
Once you've acquired everything you're able to on the list, haul it back for the closing party at Lake Effect Brewing at 3073 N. Milwaukee. Cosmic Bikes people will be at the brewery from 2:30pm to greet you! When you arrive with your bounty, we'll count, weigh and sort your catch, buy you a drink and celebrate, and then we'll award prizes for (1) heaviest haul, (2) most items delivered, (3) highest mileage, (4) cleverest costume (prize categories subject to revision😃).
We will deliver the mountain of your donations to New Hope Community Food Pantry for distribution to needy families and individuals through their food pantry and aid programs.
Questions? See below, or contact COSMIC BIKES with any questions about Cranksgiving Chicago: 773-930-4076 (voice or text) or justyna@cosmicbikes.com
Registration is encouraged but not required! Day of registration accepted!
FAQ’s
Is there a fee to participate?
There's no fee to participate in the event, but you must bring at least $20 (or more at your discretion) to purchase groceries for donation.
You may need some more funds for additional drinks or snacks at Lake Effect. Your first drink’s on us!
What should I bring?
Your bicycle, helmet and lock, plus a pack to haul your purchases in: backpack, panniers or bike trailer. You can also bring friends!! The more the merrier!!!
How will I know what to buy?
When you come to register at Cosmic Bikes on the day of the event, we will provide you with an up-to-date list of items requested by New Hope Pantry. The list typically includes shelf-stable foods, personal care items, and sometimes even clothing. What you choose to buy is entirely up to you.
Is there a set route?
Nope. You can ride alone or with a group of friends, and choose your routing to a list of suggested stores we'll provide. You can hit as many or as few stores as you choose. When you finish shopping, ride over to Lake Effect Brewing for closing ceremonies.