On Feb. 17, 2026, Raising Cane’s, a popular fast food chain known for its chicken tenders, opened a new location in Portage, MI. The restaurant’s grand opening has been highly anticipated since its announcement in January 2024, after multiple delays since construction began in June 2025.

Raising Cane’s made a day out of the event, with a live DJ who played songs from 7 am to 7 pm. Portage Northern High School’s Marching Band and Cheer team were also present and performed before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which took place 15 minutes before the opening. In addition to the entertainment, the first 100 customers received a free commemorative hat and a gift card for a free Box Combo. Along with the giveaway, there was a spinning prize wheel giving out Cane’s merchandise.

Protesters from PETA were present at the opening ceremony, urging potential customers to try eating vegan. The protesters had a display featuring anti-meat industry imagery, with another member holding signs parodying the logo of Raising Cane’s that read: “Causing Pain; Secret Sauce, Secret Suffering”, and “Chickens: shackled and bled out. Please, try vegan.”

The restaurant’s opening is projected to affect traffic in the surrounding areas for the next few days. However, the city of Portage organized a traffic plan prior to the restaurant’s opening in preparation for slow, congested roads around the already busy intersection of Westnedge and Milham Avenues. In addition, the city will closely monitor traffic conditions, making adjustments when necessary to keep traffic flowing smoothly. 

The opening of Raising Cane’s is a big moment for the greater Kalamazoo area. After a long period of construction, the highly anticipated celebration brought the community together with music, merchandise and food.