Discovering Columbus & Central Ohio Adventures

Please join us for the Columbus edition of Cranksgiving, a food drive on two wheels!

How does it work? Simple. Cranksgiving is a free event for anyone with a bike and a desire to do good. Show up on two wheels, and we’ll hand you a list of Thanksgiving food items to purchase for the Clintonville-Beechwold Community Resource Center Food Pantry. You'll then ride to local grocery stores, buy whatever you'd like to donate, and carry it by bike back to the food pantry. You can then return to our ride start/finish, Combustion Brewing, for some post-ride socializing and fun! We'll have a prize for the person who hauls the most donations by weight and a raffle for all participants!

Please RSVP through EventBrite (click 'Find Tickets' button) to help us plan and to speed up check-in, but we will have on-site registration as well.

Event Schedule:
10:00 Sign-in opens at Combustion (please do not arrive before this time)
10:15 Yay Bikes leaders for Long Route depart
10:30 Yay Bikes leaders for Medium Route depart
10:45 Riders must depart Combustion, Yay Bikes leaders for Short Route depart
11:00-1:15 Drop-off open at CRC Food Pantry, 14 W Lakeview Ave, Columbus, OH 43202
1:30 Prize and raffle drawing at Combustion

IMPORTANT
Please do not park at Combustion! They share their lot with other businesses and we will overwhelm it. Parking is available on the street or at the Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum on E Weber Rd, roughly a 0.5 mile ride from the brewery. https://goo.gl/maps/ib8AgvTyDfe1Dayu6

FAQs

• Who do I contact with questions? Please send an email to [email protected]
• How much does it cost? There is no fee to participate in Cranksgiving. How much you spend on donations is up to you. We'll also have raffle tickets for sale with awesome items donated by local businesses.
• What do I need to bring? Obviously you’ll need a bike and a way to carry the items you purchase. This could be a backpack, rack and panniers, basket, or even a trailer. Helmets and lights are encouraged. Locks are also recommended for while you are inside stores.
• How far will I have to ride? We'll provide suggested routes of roughly 5, 15, and 21 miles, each of which will have an experienced ride leader provided by Yay Bikes. You are also free to “choose your own adventure” by modifying these to your liking, or doing entirely your own thing. Please be prepared to self-navigate if so.
• What is the route like? The suggested stores and the food pantry are all accessible via neighborhood streets and the Olentangy Trail. We heavily consider route safety when planning.
• I don’t consider myself a “cyclist”; can I participate? Of course! Cranksgiving is open to anyone with a bike and a sense of charity. This is not a race, and any bike will do.
• Is there an age limit to participate? We absolutely welcome kids to join us (you can ride as little as 3-4 miles), as we love giving them an opportunity to participate in being charitable. We just ask that anyone under 18 be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
• What happens if I have a mechanical issue while riding? We will have a “SAG Wagon” available to pickup stranded riders and Johnny Velo Bike Shop will provide mechanical services at the start.
  Please note that Cranksgiving aims to promote cycling as a mode of transit and make sure cyclists are well thought of in the community. We ask that you be courteous when riding and follow the rules of the road.

https://facebook.com/events/s/cranksgiving-columbus-2024/786434726978542/

🌳 Scioto Audubon Nature Center Hike Group 🌳
Join us for an adventurous hike at the beautiful Scioto Audubon Nature Center! 🌼 This is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, explore scenic trails, and enjoy the company of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Hike Details:

• Meeting Point: Main entrance of the Scioto Audubon Nature Center. Look for the friendly group and a cheerful smiley face balloon! 🎈
• Distance: We’ll hike approximately 2-5 miles, depending on the group’s preference. 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️
• Pace: A relaxed and enjoyable pace to soak in the sights—around 2.0 mph. 🕒
• Photo Opportunities: Bring your cameras! 📸 We’ll take breaks to capture the stunning scenery and local wildlife.

ROTC Course Option: If you’re up for a challenge, consider trying the ROTC course! This military-style obstacle course offers a fun way to test your agility and strength. 💪🏽 It’s optional, but a great addition for those seeking an extra adventure!
What to Expect:

• Nature Exploration: Discover diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. 🌾🐦
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other wildlife native to the area! 🦌🦉
• Community Connection: Meet fellow nature lovers and share your hiking stories! 🤗

Safety First: Your safety is our priority! If you ever feel uncomfortable or have any concerns, please let me know right away. 🚨 We foster a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone. 🤝
Legal Stuff: Please remember that the event hosts are fellow volunteers, not professional guides. By participating, you assume all risks associated with hiking activities. ⚠️ Ensure you’re in good health and fit to hike, and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. Remember to follow all park rules and regulations during our adventure.
Looking forward to a wonderful hike and a great day in nature! 🌿✨

This festive adventure will kick off at the Merry-Go-Round in Columbus Commons. We’ll gather there at 6:50 PM—please arrive a little early to meet fellow participants and soak in the holiday spirit!
What to Expect:

• Duration: Our walk will take about 2 hours at a leisurely pace of 2.6 mph, allowing time for chatting and enjoying the sights.
• Route: We’ll stroll along the river walk, passing by some of Columbus’s historic buildings and, of course, marveling at the spectacular holiday lights.

What to Wear: Please dress comfortably for walking on pavement and prepare for cool weather. It’s a good idea to layer up!
Important Notes:

• Parking: Easy parking is available at 55 E Rich Street. Your parking helps support free events in the park!

Festive Activities: On the first four Fridays of December, Columbus Commons will be extra lively! Here are some activities to enjoy before and after our walk:

• Free Hot Chocolate from Tortilla (5 PM - 9 PM) Yes Please
• Free Carousel Rides (weather permitting) Yes Please
• Food trucks from Tortilla and Zaki Grill (5 PM - 9 PM)
• A bar serving festive drinks (credit card only)
• Live Music near the carousel (5 PM - 8 PM)
• A Roaming Photo Booth (6 PM - 8 PM)

Restrooms are conveniently located in the southeast corner of the park.
We’re looking forward to a wonderful evening filled with lights, laughter, and holiday cheer!