Just in time for the holidays, the Powerball jackpot has climbed to an astonishing $1.25 billion for the Wednesday, Dec. 17 drawing, giving hopeful lottery players across the nation — including here in Central Florida — another chance at a life-changing win.
The massive prize now stands as the second-largest Powerball jackpot of the year, trailing only the historic $1.787 billion prize split by winners in Missouri and Texas in September.
“It’s spectacular to see Powerball climb to this level right at the heart of the holiday season,” said Matt Strawn, CEO of the Iowa Lottery and Chair of the Powerball Product Group. “Players should enjoy the excitement, but remember to play responsibly — every $2 ticket gives you a chance to dream big while supporting good causes in your community.”
The jackpot soared after no ticket matched all six winning numbers in the most recent draw. While there was no grand-prize winner, several players still claimed significant prizes.
Two tickets — one sold in Arizona and another in California — matched all five white balls, each earning $1 million.
Additionally, 43 players won $50,000 prizes, and 14 tickets netted $200,000.
What’s Next?
The next Powerball drawing takes place Wednesday night, with the estimated cash lump-sum value of the jackpot at about $572.1 million before taxes. Winners can choose between the annuity payout stretched over 30 years, increasing 5 percent annually, or a one-time cash option.
Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 states, along with Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery studio in Tallahassee.
With holiday cheer in the air and millions of hopeful players watching the numbers climb, this week’s Powerball drawing could be one to remember for Osceola County and beyond.
