Join us at the Art Deco Welcome Center on December 31, 2024, as we celebrate a remarkable milestone: Robert “Raven” Kraft’s 50th anniversary of daily runs on Miami Beach.
Since January 1, 1975, Raven has run eight miles daily, totaling over 145,000 miles—equivalent to nearly six times around the Earth’s circumference. His dedication to his craft has made him a living legend and a source of inspiration for runners and admirers worldwide.
A Tribute to Raven’s Legacy
The festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. with a special ceremony at Third Street and Ocean Drive, where the City of Miami Beach will honor Raven by naming this section “Robert ‘Raven’ Kraft Way” and unveiling a commemorative plaque. Following the ceremony, Raven will embark on his 50th-anniversary run at 4:30 p.m., joined by runners from around the world.
At 7:00 p.m., the celebration continues at the Art Deco Welcome Center, located at 1001 Ocean Drive. Guests can enjoy food, drinks, and live music, with Raven himself performing some of his original songs, showcasing his creative talents as a prolific songwriter with over 1,800 original compositions.
Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernandez captured the spirit of this milestone:
“Raven Kraft is more than a Miami Beach icon – he is a testament to the power of commitment and community. For 50 years, his daily runs have inspired countless individuals to push their limits, find solace in movement, and connect with the beauty of our city. Not even a worldwide pandemic could stop the Raven! Beyond his remarkable running streak, Raven’s passion for music has further enriched his legacy, showcasing his unwavering creativity and dedication to self-expression.
It’s an honor to celebrate his extraordinary journey alongside the Miami Design Preservation League with an afterparty where we can come together to celebrate Raven’s impact on the vibrant spirit of Miami Beach. His story reminds us all that true leadership is about showing up every day and fostering connections that uplift and inspire us all.”
Above: Trailer for Robert Raven Kraft’s Unstoppable Documentary.
Support Raven’s Journey
This event also serves as a fundraiser to support Raven as he faces increasing housing costs. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched, and commemorative hats and T-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds helping to cover his legal fees.
We invite the community to come together to celebrate Raven’s unwavering dedication and his impact over the past five decades.
Event Details:
• 3:30 p.m.: Commemoration Ceremony at Third Street and Ocean Drive
• 4:30 p.m.: 50th-Anniversary Run begins
• 7:00 p.m.: Post-Run Celebration at Art Deco Welcome Center, 1001 Ocean Drive
Admission is free, and all are welcome. Let’s honor a true Miami Beach icon and celebrate his legacy of resilience, creativity, and community spirit!
We hope to see you there!
