A record-breaking $1.82 billion Powerball jackpot was won on Christmas Eve, marking the second-largest lottery prize ever claimed in the United States. While Florida lottery offices close through December 26 for the holiday, the winning ticket was actually sold in Arkansas, creating excitement across the nation.
🔥 Quick Facts
- The $1.817 billion Powerball jackpot was won in Arkansas on December 24, 2025, ending a 3-month drought without a jackpot winner
- The cash value is $834.9 million before taxes with a lump-sum payout option available
- This is the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever won, behind only Edwin Castro’s $2.04 billion Powerball in November 2022
- Florida Lottery offices remain closed December 24-26 for Christmas holiday, reopening Monday, December 29
Winning Numbers and Historic Jackpot Amount
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The Christmas Eve drawing produced a ticket holder matching all six numbers: 4, 25, 31, 52, 59, and the Powerball 19. The Power Play multiplier was 2x. This single winning ticket breaks the long stretch without a major jackpot winner.
At $1.817 billion (reported as $1.82B), this jackpot ranks as the fourth-largest in U.S. lottery history. The previous three largest winners are Edwin Castro’s November 2022 jackpot at $2.04 billion, a September 2025 Powerball at $1.8 billion, and another historic prize from earlier this year.
Where the Winning Ticket Was Sold
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The winning ticket was purchased in Arkansas, though the exact retail location has not yet been disclosed by lottery officials. Retailers in states where winning tickets are sold traditionally receive bonuses for selling major jackpots.
Powerball tickets must be redeemed in the state where they were purchased. Winner claiming deadlines and procedures vary by state, but the Arkansas winner has one year from the drawing date to claim their prize.
| Lottery Detail | Information |
| Winning State | Arkansas |
| Jackpot Amount | $1.817 billion |
| Cash Option | $834.9 million |
| Drawing Date | December 24, 2025 |
| Historic Ranking | 2nd largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever |
Florida Lottery Closure and Holiday Impact
The Florida Lottery announced that all district offices will remain closed Wednesday through Friday (December 24-26) in observance of the Christmas holiday. Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee follows the same closure schedule.
Offices will reopen Monday, December 29, 2025, allowing residents to conduct business including prize claims and ticket purchases. Online Powerball ticket sales and most retailers remain open despite office closures.
Impact on Players and the Lottery Industry
This record-breaking jackpot excitement illustrates the enduring appeal of Powerball, which operates in 45 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The three-month jackpot drought preceding this win created mounting anticipation among players nationwide.
The Christmas Eve drawing also produced eight additional winners who matched all five white ball numbers but missed the Powerball, each winning $1 million. Dozens of other prize-winning combinations were claimed across participating states.
What Happens When a Powerball Winner Comes Forward?
The Arkansas winner has one year from December 24, 2025, to claim their prize, giving them until December 24, 2026. When they come forward, the winner can choose between an annuity option (30 payments over 29 years) or the $834.9 million cash lump sum option.
Winners typically consult with financial advisors and attorneys before claiming. Many choose anonymity through legal entities when state laws permit. The winner will owe federal taxes and may face state taxes depending on Arkansas regulations.
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.