LEXINGTON, Ky. – Giving blood to Kentucky Blood Center saves local lives throughout the year, but Kentucky fans who donate during Big Blue Crush have extra incentive: a chance to beat rival Tennessee.

The 38th annual Big Blue Crush is Nov. 17–21 at all KBC locations. The annual competition pits KBC against MEDIC Regional Blood Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. Using the spirit of competition between two rival fan bases, the blood battle is intended to boost the blood supply for the Thanksgiving holiday break.

“A big turnout during Big Blue Crush is critically important for local hospitals and patients,” said Mandy Brajuha, VP of external relations at KBC. “Shortened hours, low donor turnout and the chance of an increase in transfusions during Thanksgiving week puts a significant strain on the blood supply. With the help of Kentucky fans, we can ensure blood is on the shelves for the start of the holiday season and remind our rivals the power of Big Blue Nation.”

Kentucky has the upper hand in the blood battle, which began in 1988. KBC has won three straight competitions,13 of the last 15 and leads the overall series 22-14-1.

Kentucky donors can continue their winning ways by showing up and donating blood next week. Whole blood donations typically take less than an hour from registration to refreshment and can save up to three lives. Donors can give at any of KBC’s eight donor centers or mobile drives. Most KBC donor centers, which are listed below, are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during Big Blue Crush. Mobiles can be found at bit.ly/KBC_BigBlueCrush2025.

This year’s Big Blue Crush shirt, a collector’s item for many donors, is a heathered white long-sleeve with a retro logo. All donors who give blood will receive one (while supplies last). 

Donors can schedule an appointment at kybloodcenter.org or call 800.775.2522. Appointments are highly encouraged during Big Blue Crush. Walk-ins will be accepted as space allows.

One in four people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime, and as the largest FDA-license nonprofit blood bank in Kentucky, KBC ensures blood is available for a wide range of treatments at local hospitals. KBC is the exclusive blood provider for UK HealthCare, Baptist Health, CHI Saint Joseph, Appalachian Regional Healthcare and more.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.