Good morning, Bloomington.

In 2025, four Bloomington restaurants and one Nashville eatery closed permanently, and Cozy Table will reopen in 2026 at a new location on West Third St after renovations — following permit delays.

Brian Jones bought a custom-built 1988 van with red trim and luxury features including track mood lighting + plush seating after finding it stored at Iron Pit Gym nearly 15 years ago; he now drives it on occasional summer trips around Lake Monroe.

The Bloomingtonian has published a photo collection of the IU football season that shows key moments at Memorial Stadium and traditions like touching Hep’s Rock.

Photos from early games to the Big 10 Championship highlight the Hoosiers’ journey, with coverage supported by Rose Bowl sponsors.

Indiana football starting right guard Drew Evans experienced pain during a UCLA win in October that raised concerns of another injury after he missed the CFP run last season; he said he now feels 100% and will play in the upcoming Big Ten title game.

College Football Playoff quarterfinals are live on ESPN via Sling.

Fans can watch Miami versus Ohio State today at 7:30 p.m. ET (Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic) and games will be streamed on Jan. 1 featuring Oregon versus Texas Tech, Alabama versus Indiana, and Ole Miss versus Georgia.

Indiana offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan has built an offense that averages 41.9 points per game plus earned the No.1 seed in the College Football Playoff.

His trust in his playmakers has lifted the team despite key injuries as they prepare to face Alabama at the Rose Bowl quarterfinal.

Indiana football redshirt freshman Adedamola Ajani is set to play multiple positions against Alabama in the Rose Bowl after stepping in during the Big Ten title game.

He credited coach Bob Bostad for helping him hone his skills as his team prepares to keep their unbeaten record.

Indiana football safety Byron Baldwin Jr. said his coaching staff kept him in the game after an injury at camp delayed his playing time until late October; he appeared in five games and learned from veteran players as he slowly worked on his recovery.

Indiana University’s football team practiced for the Rose Bowl on Dec.

30 in Los Angeles, refining plays ahead of the big game (photos were taken by Jeremy Hogan).

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is expected to be a top NFL pick in the 2026 Draft if he opts to leave early, while left tackle Carter Smith and cornerback D’Angelo Ponds are weighing similar options after the season.

They remain focused on the Rose Bowl and national title efforts.

Mama Said String Band with Chris Dollar

6-9 p.m. — The Orbit Room — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy live music from Mama Said String Band and Chris Dollar at a top-rated Bloomington venue.

2026 IU Winter ID Camp

5:00 a.m. to 4:59 a.m. — Mellencamp Pavilion, Bloomington, IN — Registration fee applies — A developmental camp for high school soccer players aiming for collegiate play.

Catalpa Concert Featuring This Burning Ghost

7-11 p.m. — The Orbit Room — Ticket prices vary — Experience the melodic tunes of Sean South by Catalpa and dive into the world of live music.

WFIU's The Soul Kitchen Dance Party

6:30 p.m. — Franklin Hall — Free entry — A vibrant evening of soul, funk, and music, featuring a dance lesson and DJ set.

Dylan Ryan Performance

6:30-9:30 a.m. — The Orbit Room — $13.60 — Enjoy a morning filled with live music from the Benton / Myers / Garber Trio and Dylan Ryan.

Ben Cartha Fowler Project & Sam Finley Trio

6:30-10 p.m. — The Orbit Room — $17 — Experience a lively jazz double feature with local talent and enjoy food and drink.

Falun Dafa Meditation Workshop

5-6:30 p.m. — Indiana Memorial Union — Free entry — Discover the peaceful practices of Falun Dafa through meditation and exercises.

Umphrey's McGee Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Bluebird — $86-$144 — Enjoy an electrifying evening with live music from Umphrey's McGee at a popular local venue.

Dakota Curtis & The Dark / Dandelioness / Paul Bertsch Band

6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Orbit Room — $13.60 — Celebrate new music releases from three local acts with an enjoyable evening of live performances.