Taste of Ravenswood is back on February 6, 2026!

Don't miss out! Our newsletter can get cut off in your email. Click here to view as a webpage.

Week of January 20

In This Issue:

·Around Ravenswood

·Community Calendar

·Eat Local, Drink Local

·Arts Corner

·Business Resources & Workshops

·Updates from SSA #31

·Now Hiring

·Offers From GRCC Members

·Doing Good in the Neighborhood

·Volunteer Opportunities

Coming Up: Check out a creative meetup at Eco Flamingo, plant yourself at one of RNA's Native Garden Info Sessions, and get down at VIN312 Winery's Chicago blues night.



Attention Business Leaders: Treat yourself and your staff to a table reservation at Taste of Ravenswood on February 6th! Space is limited, so reserve as soon as possible.

Welcome to our new members: AYSO Region 418, Badabing Wings Zone, Bayan Ko Diner, Bunny Ears Art House, Charlie Young Photography, Cooney & Conway, Chicago Makeup School, Drop The Mic Beauty, Forge Film Acting, Megan Gasper PR, The Rooted Space, Third Floor Suzuki Violin, True Precision Rehab, and Vertera Financial.


And a thanks to our returning members for their continued support: Augustyn Family Services, Chicago Glass Collective, Dandelion Therapeutic Art Center, Feast Fitness, Haitian American Museum of Chicago, Krebs Financial Management, Movement Physical Therapy and Wellness, NE Levy Senior Center Auxiliary, NorthPoint Leding Group, Rooted Connections Counseling, Sophia Reyes, Stories Matter Foundation, The Eco Flamingo, The Silver Line, and Two Steps Forward.

There's a Facebook group just for Ravenswood! Click here to connect with neighbors about community issues, events, neighborhood-specific questions, and more.

Instagram  Facebook  Linkedin  YouTube

Around Ravenswood

·CBS News Chicago: Take a look inside Ponnopozz art studio in Ravenswood - "Take a look inside this colorful Ravenswood art studio with Jackie Kostek." 🎥 Watch Here


·CBS News Chicago: Tapping into creativity at the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative - "Jackie Kostek is jumpstarting the New Year with a hands-on visit to the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative, a studio for printmakers at 4912 N. Western Ave." 🎥 Watch Here


·Chicago YIMBY: Plans Approved for Mixed-Use Development on Damen Ave - The Chicago City Council has approved plans for a mixed-use development at 4943 North Damen Avenue. Located near Winnemac Park...the project was initially proposed last summer and will replace an existing one-story commercial building. More Info

·Registration Open for The 30th Annual Ravenswood Run - Celebrate 30 years of the Ravenswood Run 5K! Sign up today to support Ravenswood Community Services, with every registration helping fund its Food Pantry & Community Kitchen and provide meals and groceries for neighbors in need. More Info


·Local Business Spotlight: The Flower Girl Company - Every now and then, something spectacular is going to happen in your life, and you’re going to want to pair it with a floral arrangement to match! Look no further than The Flower Girl Company. Read More

Community Calendar

·1/22, Bystander CPR/AED Training Session at Galter Life Center - This free training features interactive practice of "hands-only" CPR with a mannequin so individuals can understand how to perform chest compressions. 6-7pm, 5157 N. Francisco Ave, FREE More Info


·1/26, Writing + Drawing Meetup at The Eco Flamingo - Get creative at the Eco Flamingo Market Cafe 2 Mondays a month! Led by award-winning playwright and artist Mia McCullough, follow the prompt of the day or work on whatever strikes your fancy. Beverages and some bites will be available for purchase. 7-8pm, 4750 N Rockwell St, FREE More Info


·1/29, No I.D. Alcohol-Free Cocktail Competition & Tasting at Artifact Events -This Dry January, leave the ID at home and check out this alcohol-free cocktail competition and tasting event at Artifact Events! Sample zero-proof creations by a selection of stellar mixologists from around Chicago and vote for your favorite! 6:30-9:30pm, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, $43.30 More Info


·1/31, Begyle + Friends at Artifact Events - Grab your crew for a winter bash packed with good vibes — bands, bites & brews! They’ve got it all: beer, wine, cider, cocktails, music, food & fun… all that’s missing is you! 6-11pm, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, $33.85 More Info

·1/31, Yoga Basics Workshop at Pistachio Yoga - Thinking about starting yoga this year but not sure where to begin? This workshop is for you! Break in Pistachio Yoga's NEW studio and celebrate the occasion with a ribbon cutting just before the class! 11:30am-1:30pm, 5215 N Damen Ave, $30 Suggested (Pay What You Want) More Info


·2/1, Indoor Street Food Market at Mindful Baking - This cold weather can't stop us from indulging in street food! Stop by for a soul-warming selection of street food and dessert, plus live music and tattoos by Hidden Light. 12-6pm, 4201 N Ravenswood Ave, FREE More Info


·2/4, Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America Screening at North Park Elementary - Watch a screening of Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America, followed by an in-person conversation with filmmaker Josh Chuck! As always, the NPES Social Justice Film Series is free and open to the public. Popcorn will be served! 6pm, 2017 W Montrose Ave, FREE More Info


·2/5, Native Garden Info Session with the Ravenswood Neighbors Association - Do you want to beautify the neighborhood and help us fight climate change and the loss of biodiversity? Plant a native garden with the Ravenswood Neighbors Association! Priority in 2026 will be given to those who attend an info session. 7-8:30pm, 1757 W Wilson, FREE More Info

2/6, Taste of Ravenswood


Bring family, friends, and coworkers out for an evening sampling the best that Ravenswood has to offer! We're bringing you the neighborhood's top restaurants, brewers, and spirit makers for a fantastic, one-night-only experience in the picturesque Ravenswood Event Center.

Enjoy delicious bites and sips, live music, live painting by Alexandra Stevenson, and explore a private collection of vintage neon signs and classic cars while admiring beautiful florals by The Flower Girl Company. We can't wait to see you there!


Tickets are going fast! 7:30-10pm, 4021 N Ravenswood Ave More Info


·2/6, Book Swap: Romance Edition at Bon Femmes - Calling all romance readers! Fall into Bon Femmes for a swoon-worthy Romance Edition Book Swap, a night dedicated to love stories, happily-ever-afters, and all the drama in between. Whether you’re into slow burns, rom-coms, enemies-to-lovers, or dog-eared paperbacks you’ve reread a dozen times, this swap is for you. 6-8pm, 4917 N Damen Ave, $5 More Info

·2/7, Album Release Party at Traffic Jam! Swing - Visit Traffic Jam! Studio for a special evening celebrating the release of Jake Sanders and the Midwest All-Stars Live at Second City Swingout. The night will include a guided album listening, followed by time to connect and celebrate. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided! 6:30-9pm, 4043 N Ravenswood Ave, FREE More Info


·View Our Full Community Calendar

Eat Local, Drink Local

·Super Bowl Sunday at Fireside - Spend Super Bowl Sunday with friends at neighbors at Fireside Restaurant & Lounge! Drink specials and wing specials available all day long. Dine-in only. More Info


·Do Good at Long Room Chicago - Long Room's Do Good Cocktail For A Cause this month is the Rosemary Daiquiri! For every sale of this cocktail in January, $1 will be donated to the Transformative Justice Law Project, which provides support, advocacy, and free holistic legal services to poor and street-based transgender people in IL. More Info


·Seasonal Offerings at Falcon's Handcrafted Sandwiches - Falcon’s is more than just sandwiches, offering handmade pastas and a variety of thoughtfully crafted dishes made with quality ingredients. Their rotating menu also features creative specials and gelato milkshakes, giving guests something new to enjoy year-round! More Info

What's Up on Malt Row?


·1/23, Traffic Jam Swing Night at Dovetail Brewery - Beginner swing dance lesson, DJ’d social dancing, and a 0.5L beer—no partner or experience required! Stop by the Barrel Loft for a laid-back night of swing dancing with neighbors and friends at Traffic Jam! Swing. 7pm, 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave, $17.85 More Info


·1/23, Blues Night at VIN312 Winery - Plan for an awesome Chicago Blues night at the winery. Grab a bottle of wine or cocktail to share while enjoying a night with Chicago's own Tony Llorens and the Winos, speakeasy style. Dress to impress! 8pm-12am, 4710 N Ravenswood Ave, $25 More Info


·2/11, Flower Arranging for Beginners at KOVAL Distillery - Discover the artistry of floral design and cultivate your love for blooms! Join Vivant Gardens at KOVAL for an evening dedicated to the enchanting world of flower arranging. Right in time for Valentine's Day! 7-9pm, 4241 N Ravenswood Ave, $65 More Info

Arts Corner

·Bridgerton Winter Ball at Ballroom Dance Chicago - If you dream of a night filled with waltzes, whispers, and refined revelry, the Bridgerton Winter Ball awaits on January 31. Inspired by the grand balls of the Regency era, this evening invites you to step into a world of grace, music, and connection. 8-10:30pm, 4039B N Ravenswood Ave, $50-$80, 21+ More Info


·Explore Upcoming Programming at The CheckOut - Ever wanted to see a live show in a converted 7-Eleven? We've checked it out, and The CheckOut offers a truly must-try experience. Explore upcoming shows through the end of March, spanning across genres, eras, and vibes, from solo classical performances to jazz quintets. More Info


·Lydia Cash Solo Exhibition at Lillstreet Art Center - Violet is an exhibition by Lillstreet's Drawing & Painting Artist in Residence, Lydia Cash, on view Feb 2–28. Don't miss the special celebration on February 27, from 5–7 pm, for an artist talk and musical performance by Cash! More Info

Creative Calendar


·1/25, Experiments in Watercolor at Jenny G's Art Supply - Experiment with watercolor and inking techniques to create abstract mixed media pieces. Learn how to tame the watercolor medium and apply ink textures. Beginners encouraged!10:30am 12:30pm, 1926 W Montrose Ave $40 More Info


·1/24, Hem Your Own Pants at Lillstreet Art Center - Learn how to hem your pants with the guidance of an expert instructor! Explore the possibilities of hand stitching. Bring in a pair of pants and a matching spool of thread, and leave with a perfect hem! 2-5pm, 4401 N Ravenswood Ave, $130 More Info


·2/8, Valentine Candle + Dried Floral Workshop at Indigo & Violet Studio - Don't miss this fragrant 2-in-1 experience! Make your own custom candle + dried floral arrangement. While your candles are cooling, work with dried florals to create your one-of-a-kind bouquet! 11am-1pm, 1411 W Irving Park Rd, $75 More Info 

Business Resources & Workshops

Connect with the Uptown Business Center for two free upcoming events for businesses:


·1/26, Uptown Social Media Mastery - Join a hands-on workshop designed specifically for local business owners looking to stand out on social media in 2026. Whether you're in the restaurant, retail, or service industry, this session will give you the tools to thrive. 1-2pm, 1132 W Argyle St, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now

·2/9, Small Business Taxes 101 - Set your business up for success this upcoming tax season by learning tips and tricks from local experts! Presented by Wintrust Bank and Noren, Nordling, and Associates PLLC. A light lunch and refreshments will be provided for attendees. Please register in advance for accurate headcounts.  12:30-2pm, 4619 N Broadway, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now


·View Upcoming Programs and Services

Each month, Chicago's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection hosts a variety of free business resource webinars!


·1/23, From Vision to Action: Building Your Winning Business Plan - Turn your ideas into action! Learn the key steps of business planning and walk away with a clear roadmap to grow your business. A strong business doesn’t just happen; it’s built on a solid plan! 9:30-11am, Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now

·1/30, Forming Your Business: Choosing a Legal Entity & Risk Mitigation - Whether LLC, Corp, or another legal entity, when starting a business, organizing your company the right way can significantly limit risk. Agostino Filippone, a Partner at Chokshi Filippone Law, LLC, will present on entity options, as well as provide information and material to help you navigate around common pitfalls faced by business-owners. 9:30-11am, Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now


·View Upcoming Free City Workshops

Updates from Special Service Area #31

·New Ravenswood Bike Racks Installed - Ravenswood–branded bike racks have officially been installed throughout the neighborhood! Made possible by Special Service Area #31, these new racks enhance accessibility, support biking, and reinforce Ravenswood’s unique neighborhood identity.

·Permanent Seating Installed at the Damen and Leland People Space - Permanent seating has officially been installed at Special Service Area #31’s People Space at Damen and Leland, made possible through a collaboration between SSA #31 and the 47th Ward Office, creating a more welcoming and accessible gathering place for the Ravenswood community!

Now Hiring

·NEW: Color Me Mine Seeks Full- and Part-Time Team Members - Are you passionate about creativity and customer service? Color Me Mine is seeking vibrant individuals to join their team! Previous customer service experience is a plus. More Info


·NEW: Gnome Brew Seeks Part-Time Retail Associate - This position combines core retail, hospitality, and hands-on fermentation tasks and is ideal for someone with a strong interest in brewing who wants to build skills over time. More Info


·Accurate Products Seeks Purchasing & Customer Service Personnel - Accurate Products Inc. is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented person to manage purchase orders and customer communications. More Info

·Accurate Products Inc Seeks Quality Tech - This full-time role supports the Quality Manager (QM). Ideal candidates are proficient in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and are fluent in English. Spanish is a plus! More Info


·DANK Haus Seeks Part-Time After Care Teacher - DANK Haus is looking for a part-time After-Care Teacher to help create a fun, safe, and engaging environment for preschoolers. Weekdays from 3-5pm! More Info



·View Our Job Board

·Careers in Manufacturing at JARC - Jane Addams Resource Corporation's free job training courses can help you gain employment in the manufacturing sector. You'll learn valuable skills, including CNC, welding, and mechanical assembly. More Info

Offers From Our Members

·T. Salon and Gallery Special Offer - Book your appointment with Amber and enjoy 20% off all color services, including vivid colors, balayage, bleach and tone, and highlights. Offer valid 1/31/26 More Info


·EmpowerFit New Year Strength Sale - Want to learn how to weight lift in 2026? Kick off the new year feeling supported at EmpowerFit. Purchase 11 personal training sessions (30, 45, or 60 minutes) for the price of 8—a savings of up to $330! Offer valid 1/1/26-1/31/26 More Info


·New Member Offer from Urban Athlete - New year, new you! Starting in January, sign up for a 4-month VIP membership contract for only $150/month (includes unlimited classes) or a 25 class-pack for $425 ($17/class!) More Info


·Introductory Offer at Body Euphoria Massage Therapy - Get ahead of the winter blues, and try a Magical Intro Massage at Body Euphoria Massage Therapy! Mention the GRCC newsletter for a free aromatherapy add-on to your session. More Info

Doing Good in the Neighborhood

·Pilgrim Lutheran Parish Fundraiser for Refugee Families - The students, parents, and congregation of Pilgrim Lutheran Parish recently raised money and collected essential household items for refugee families being supported by Exodus World Service! Learn More


·Demo Brewing Celebrates Successful Double Community Fundraiser - Last month, Demo held a fundraiser event for Chicago Canine Rescue and Ravenswood Community Services Afterschool Program, raising hundreds of dollars and lots of food & supplies for both problems. About Demo


·Neon to Neighborhoods: Lightwriters Neon Hosting Mutual Aid Show - Lightwriters Neon is currently running a mutual aid gallery show with all artwork priced very low to benefit Erie House, a nonprofit providing comprehensive support for immigrant and low-income families in Chicago. Read More


·Mind Chicago's Holiday Roundup - This holiday season, Mind Chicago clinicians and families together collected and donated around 30 coats to Housing Opportunities to Women (HOW), made cards for hospitalized kids, and spent time volunteering with Nourishing Hope to sort and help distribute food to those who need. Learn More


·Holiday Lights Recycling with Reduce Waste Chicago - Go green for the holidays! Bring disused holiday lights to a drop off location by 1/31. Local collection points include the 47th Ward office, Erwin Law, and Bartleby's! Read More

Volunteer & Donation Opportunities

·Sock & Winter Accessory Drive at The Eco Flamingo - From now until the end of April, The Eco Flamingo is accepting donations for The Wool Gathering Project of new or used (in good condition) socks and winter accessories that will be distributed to the Friendship Center. Read More


·Volunteer at The Friendship Center - The Friendship Center operates a food pantry, serves weekly hot meals, delivers groceries to seniors and other individuals who are homebound and cannot visit the pantry, and provides pet food for those in need. Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles, including in the pantry, in the kitchen, and helping with weekend deliveries. . More Info


·Support the Ravenswood Community Services Food Pantry & Community Kitchen - Every Tuesday, RCS distributes groceries and hot meals to neighbors. Volunteers are welcome and asked to sign up in advance. Other ways to help include donations of pasta and rice, financial support for the food pantry and community kitchen, and words of encouragement posted to RCS's Facebook page. More Info


·Call for Volunteers and Donations to Common Pantry - Chicago's longest operating food pantry is looking for new volunteers! If you can't volunteer, consider making a monetary donation. Direct monetary donations are the best way to support the pantry, as it allows them to purchase high priority supplies for their clients. More Info

Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce

Ravenswood Community Council

1770 W Berteau, Suite 101 | info@ravenswoodchicago.org