Ravenswood Is Lacing Up: The Neighborhood's Beloved Annual 5K Is Just Weeks Away — Plus, Crafty Beaver Gets Its Well-Deserved Moment in the Spotlight

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Ravenswood · April 1, 2026

Spring has officially arrived in Ravenswood, and the neighborhood is celebrating in true community fashion. The Ravenswood Run — one of Chicago's only neighborhood 5K races — is returning on Sunday, April 26th, 2026, and registration is open now. Organized by Ravenswood Community Services, roughly 3,000 runners are expected to gather at the corner of Wilson and Hermitage Ave to wind through the beautiful, historic streets of Ravenswood. Whether you're a seasoned pavement-pounder or a first-time 5K-er, this is one of the most spirited and uniquely local racing traditions on the North Side. Sign up at ravenswoodcommunityservices.org before spots fill up.

Meanwhile, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is shining its April Business Spotlight on a true neighborhood institution: Crafty Beaver Home Center at 1522 W. Lawrence Ave. One of Ravenswood's oldest businesses, Crafty Beaver has long been the neighborhood's go-to destination for hardware and home repair needs — a beloved anchor that keeps residents rooted and homes well-maintained. It's the kind of no-frills, deeply reliable local business that makes Ravenswood feel like a real community.

And if you're a local business owner curious about what the GRCC has to offer, tomorrow — Wednesday, April 2nd from 11 AM to 1 PM — the Chamber is hosting a Member Orientation at the GRCC Office, a great chance to connect directly with staff and learn about programs and services. Visit ravenswoodchicago.org to learn more and get involved.

Sources:
1. https://ravenswoodcommunityservices.org/
2. https://ravenswoodchicago.org/neighborhood/
3. https://ravenswoodchicago.org/