Bloomington, Indiana – The United Way of South Central Indiana is gearing up for one of its most anticipated community traditions — the 3rd Annual Blue Jean Ball. This year’s benefit concert will once again combine live music, local food, and spirited fundraising, all set against the rustic backdrop of Whippoorwill Hill’s historic barn in Bloomington. The event takes place Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., and it promises an evening where every bite, every bid, and every note of music will help support the organization’s mission to connect people in the region to new opportunities.
The Blue Jean Ball has built a reputation for its laid-back atmosphere, where guests are encouraged to “come as you are” and leave any formalwear at home. This year’s lineup keeps that same welcoming spirit but adds an extra dose of excitement. Headlining the concert will be country music singer-songwriter Jennifer Mlott, whose powerhouse vocals and energetic stage presence are expected to get the crowd moving. “Jennifer Mlott… will bring her powerhouse vocals and high-energy performance to get everyone two-stepping,” the event announcement promises.
And while the music will be front and center, the food lineup is just as impressive. Guests will enjoy savory barbecue from Great White Smoke, with their choice of pulled pork, pulled chicken, or a hearty black bean burger, along with all the classic sides and fixings. Dessert will come courtesy of Bruster’s Ice Cream, featuring a sundae bar that has quickly become a Blue Jean Ball tradition. For those looking to raise a glass, Upland Brewing Co. will be serving a selection of beer and wine throughout the night.
The fundraising portion of the event will kick off right at 5 p.m. with both the silent auction and the brand-new raffle opening to attendees. From handcrafted goods to local experiences, the auction table will feature a variety of items that invite friendly competition — all for a good cause. The first raffle drawing will take place at 6:30 p.m., adding an element of suspense to the night’s entertainment.
Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., giving guests a chance to settle in and enjoy the meal before Mlott takes the stage at 6:15 p.m. Her one-hour set will blend heartfelt ballads with upbeat crowd-pleasers, ensuring there’s something for every kind of country music fan. At 7:30 p.m., the silent auction will officially close, wrapping up the evening’s fundraising efforts.
Tickets for the Blue Jean Ball are $55 each, which includes dinner, dessert, and the concert. They are available now through the United Way of South Central Indiana’s website at www.unitedwaysci.org/BlueJeanBall. Organizers are encouraging early purchases, as no tickets will be sold at the door and sales will close on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
While the music and food may draw the crowd, it’s the purpose behind the event that truly matters. All proceeds go directly to United Way of South Central Indiana, which works year-round to connect individuals and families to resources, opportunities, and support systems that help them thrive. By attending, guests are not just enjoying a night out — they’re investing in the future of their community.
Whippoorwill Hill, the venue for the evening, offers its own sense of magic. Nestled in the rolling countryside of Bloomington, its historic barn setting blends charm with a sense of gathering, making it the perfect spot for a benefit designed to bring people together.
Whether attendees are drawn by the lure of live country music, the promise of award-winning barbecue, or the chance to win a raffle prize, the Blue Jean Ball is an opportunity to connect with neighbors and contribute to a larger mission. As the United Way puts it, this is more than just an event — it’s a night where community spirit takes center stage.
