Lexington, Kentucky, November 15, 2025
The Kentucky Blood Center is set to host its 38th annual Big Blue Crush blood drive, running from November 17 to 21, 2025. This annual event encourages fans from Kentucky and Tennessee to compete in blood donations, aiming to boost the blood supply ahead of Thanksgiving. Donors can visit multiple locations in Kentucky, receive rewards, and help save lives. With a rich tradition and a friendly rivalry, the drive continues to highlight the importance of blood donations during lower supply periods.
Lexington, Kentucky: Kentucky Blood Center Launches 38th Annual Big Blue Crush Blood Drive
Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) will host its 38th annual Big Blue Crush blood drive from November 17 to 21, 2025. This initiative aims to increase the blood supply as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, encouraging competition between fans from Kentucky and Tennessee to donate blood.
Event Details
The Big Blue Crush blood drive will be held at all KBC donor centers and mobile drives throughout Kentucky. Most donor centers are scheduled to operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the event. Donors can donate blood at any of KBC’s eight donor centers or mobile drives from November 17 to 21. The donation process typically lasts less than an hour and can potentially save up to three lives. As a gesture of thanks, donors will receive a limited-edition long-sleeve shirt featuring a retro logo.
University of Kentucky Campus Locations
For University of Kentucky students, staff, and faculty, KBC will provide several on-campus donation opportunities:
- Gatton Student Center (Ballroom A): November 17–18 and November 20–21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- William T. Young Library (KBC Bloodmobile): November 17 and November 19, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Lewis Honors College (Scholars Student Lounge): November 19–21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Campus donors will also receive additional rewards, including a coupon for a free entrée at Qdoba, a $5 Starbucks gift card, and the commemorative long-sleeve shirt.
Competition Background
The Big Blue Crush blood drive is a friendly competition between KBC and the MEDIC Regional Blood Center based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Kentucky currently leads the competition with 22 wins, 14 losses, and 1 tie, including three consecutive victories and 13 wins in the last 15 years. The rivalry serves to highlight the importance of blood donations, particularly during a time when supplies are typically lower.
Donor Eligibility
Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in generally good health, and present photo identification. Sixteen-year-old donors are required to have a signed parental permission slip, which is available on KBC’s website. While appointments are encouraged for the Big Blue Crush, walk-ins may be accepted as space allows. To make an appointment or for other donation location information, individuals can visit KBC’s website or call 800.775.2522.
About Kentucky Blood Center
KBC is the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky, dedicated to saving local lives since 1968. The center is FDA licensed and focuses on collecting, processing, and distributing blood for patients across Kentucky. KBC services approximately 90 counties and operates donor centers in major cities including Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Pikeville, Somerset, and Corbin.
Contact Information
For additional details about the Big Blue Crush blood drive or to book an appointment, visit KBC’s website or contact them at 800.775.2522.
FAQ
What is the Big Blue Crush blood drive?
The Big Blue Crush is an annual blood drive competition between Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) and the MEDIC Regional Blood Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. It aims to boost the blood supply ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday by engaging fans from both states in a friendly rivalry to collect the most blood donations.
When and where is the Big Blue Crush blood drive taking place?
The 38th annual Big Blue Crush blood drive will be held from November 17 to 21, 2025, at all KBC donor centers and mobile drives across Kentucky. Most donor centers will operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the event.
How can I donate blood during the Big Blue Crush event?
Donors can give blood at any of KBC’s eight donor centers or mobile drives throughout the week. For University of Kentucky students, staff, and faculty, there are several donation opportunities on campus. To schedule a donation or find other donation locations, visit KBC’s website or call 800.775.2522.
What are the eligibility requirements for donating blood?
Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, and show photo identification. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at KBC’s website. Appointments are strongly encouraged during Big Blue Crush, though walk-ins will be accepted as space allows.
What will donors receive during the Big Blue Crush event?
As a token of appreciation, all donors will receive a limited-edition long-sleeve shirt featuring a retro logo. Campus donors will also receive additional perks, including a coupon for a free entrée at Qdoba and a $5 Starbucks gift card.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | November 17–21, 2025 |
| Locations | All KBC donor centers and mobile drives across Kentucky |
| Operating Hours | Most donor centers open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the event |
| Donor Eligibility | At least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, in general good health, and show photo identification |
| Special Perks for Campus Donors | Coupon for a free entrée at Qdoba, a $5 Starbucks gift card, and a limited-edition long-sleeve shirt featuring a retro logo |
| Contact Information | Visit KBC’s website or call 800.775.2522 to schedule a donation or find other donation locations |
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