- The Powerball lottery awarded its massive $1.817 billion jackpot on Christmas Eve, marking the second-largest prize in United States history.
- After 46 consecutive drawings without a top winner since September 6, a single ticket purchased in Arkansas successfully matched all six numbers drawn.
- The winning numbers were white balls 4, 25, 31, 52, 59, and red Powerball 19, with a Power Play multiplier of 2.
- The historic payout draws to a close a jackpot run that captured national attention.
Quick Summary
The Powerball jackpot has been won, ending a long streak of rollovers with a historic $1.817 billion prize. A single winning ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers during the Christmas Eve drawing. This payout stands as the second-largest lottery jackpot ever won in the United States.
The winning numbers were white balls 4, 25, 31, 52, 59, and red Powerball 19. The drawing took place on Wednesday night following more than 46 consecutive drawings without a jackpot winner. The prize had been growing since September 6, drawing massive participation across the country.
The winner has two options for receiving the funds. They can receive the full amount via an annuity paid over nearly three decades, or they can take a lump-sum cash value of $834.9 million. This event marks a significant moment in lottery history, occurring only the second time a jackpot has been won on Christmas Eve.
The Historic Christmas Eve Drawing
Powerball confirmed that one ticket matched all six numbers in the Wednesday night drawing, securing the massive jackpot. The $1.817 billion prize represents a historic Christmas Eve payout and ranks as the second-largest lottery jackpot ever won in the United States. The winning ticket was sold in Arkansas, delivering a massive windfall to the state.
The jackpot had drawn national attention as it grew through more than 46 consecutive drawings without a top winner. The streak of non-winning drawings began on September 6. The odds of winning the jackpot are approximately 1 in 292 million, with each ticket costing $2.
According to official records, the winning numbers for the historic drawing were:
- White balls: 4, 25, 31, 52, 59
- Red Powerball: 19
- Power Play multiplier: 2
Winning on Christmas Eve is a rare occurrence. The Powerball jackpot has been won once previously on Christmas Eve, which occurred in 2011. Additionally, the jackpot has been won four times on Christmas Day throughout the lottery's history.
Payout Options and Value
The winner faces a critical financial decision regarding how to claim the $1.817 billion prize. The lottery offers two distinct methods for receiving the funds, each with significant financial implications.
The first option is an annuity. This payment structure provides the full jackpot amount but is distributed over nearly three decades. This option ensures a steady stream of income for 29 years.
The second option is a lump-sum cash payout. The winner can choose to receive the cash value of the prize immediately. The cash value for this drawing is $834.9 million. This amount is significantly lower than the advertised jackpot but is paid out all at once.
Powerball Availability and Context
Powerball is available in 45 states, as well as Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. The lottery is administered by the Multi-State Lottery Association. The game has been responsible for some of the largest jackpots in history.
This specific jackpot run captured the attention of the public due to its size and duration. The prize had been accumulating for months without a winner. The sale of the winning ticket in Arkansas concludes this chapter of the lottery, resetting the jackpot to its minimum for the next drawing cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot?
A single ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers to win the $1.817 billion Powerball jackpot.
What are the payout options for the winner?
The winner can choose between an annuity paid over nearly three decades or a lump-sum cash payment of $834.9 million.
When was the winning Powerball drawing held?
The drawing took place on Christmas Eve.
