Peter Billingsley and Raising Cane's Transform Nostalgia into Meaningful Holiday Influence

Times Square became a festive wonderland reminiscent of "A Christmas Story" as actor Peter Billingsley, famously known for portraying Ralphie Parker, joined Raising Canes founder Todd Graves to bring holiday joy to hundreds of children in New York City. At Military Island, Canes donated 500 brand-new bicycles and helmets to the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem, marking one of the chains largest charitable holiday campaigns to date.

This event in New York was part of Canes nationwide bike-giveaway tour, now in its sixth year, featuring holiday-themed activities including Santa appearances, "A Christmas Story"-inspired decorations like the iconic leg lamp, and hot Chicken Fingers for families. Children also received limited-edition plush puppies from the movie along with digital codes to enjoy the classic film at home during the holidays. Celebrities including Olivia Ponton, Tayshia Adams, Joe Amabile, Luann de Lesseps, Austen Kroll, and Rachel Fuda joined the festivities to celebrate the surprise giveaway.

Billingsley Brings Movie Memorabilia to Times Square

For Billingsley, returning to his hometown of New York City added a personal touch to the event. Being back in New York, where I grew up, and donating 500 bikes to the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem feels like coming full circle, he said. The actor also revealed that iconic items from "A Christmas Story"including his pink bunny suit, cowboy outfit, and Red Ryder BB gunwere publicly displayed for the first time at the Raising Canes flagship store in Times Square.

After discussing the holiday campaign with Graves, Billingsley agreed to showcase the costumes at the flagship store. Todd suggested displaying them for the entire holiday season so fans could see them, and I jumped at the chance, Billingsley shared. Due to their cultural value, the items were transported in an armored truck.

Graves Explains the Heart Behind Canes Holiday Giving

Todd Graves spoke passionately about the inspiration behind the companys charitable efforts. Highlighting the brands humble beginningsfacing rejection from banks, working multiple jobs, and opening the first restaurant despite challengesGraves emphasized that giving back has always been central to Canes mission. We have the privilege to take what we earn and give back to the community, he said.

This year, Raising Canes plans to donate 4,000 bicycles across nearly 30 locations, totaling $1.5 million in contributions. Proceeds from their holiday plush puppy collection will also benefit pet welfare organizations nationwide.

Billingsley Shares Heartfelt Childhood Memories

During the event, Billingsley recounted childhood adventures biking through Manhattan, sometimes lost and often in the rain, highlighting how receiving a bike was one of his most treasured gifts. I know the best Christmas gift for any of you is a bike, and were thrilled to share that joy, he said. Graves added that simple acts of generosity can inspire a lifetime of kindness. I hope these kids remember this feeling and pass it forward, he stated.

Boys & Girls Club of Harlem Welcomes the Bikes

Shaba R. Keys, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Harlem, praised the initiative, noting that bicycles perfectly align with the organizations mission to empower youth. Bikes give young people the opportunity to steer their future and explore new paths, she said. Dozens of children experienced the unforgettable joy of receiving their first bikes during the surprise giveaway.

Canes Holiday Spirit Expands Nationwide

Throughout December, Canes is hosting nearly 30 bike-giveaway events across the country, collaborating with athletes, musicians, and celebrities to bring holiday cheer to youth organizations. From Times Square leg lamps to secured BB guns, from Santa selfies to brand-new bicycles, Canes is delivering its most ambitious holiday campaign yet, inspired by a film cherished for over four decades. Graves captured the festive spirit simply: Alright how about some bikes, yall?

Author: Ethan Caldwell