Powerball Jackpot Hits $1.6 Billion: Next Draw December 22

The holiday season just got a lot more exciting for lottery players across America. After yet another drawing without a grand prize winner on Saturday night, the Powerball jackpot has climbed to a staggering $1.6 billion.

This massive prize ranks as the fourth-largest in Powerball history and the fifth-largest among all U.S. lottery jackpots. The next drawing, scheduled for Monday, December 22, promises to be a frenzy of ticket sales as hopefuls try to snap a record-breaking losing streak.

Saturday’s Results: No Jackpot, But Millions Won

The winning numbers for the Saturday, December 20 drawing were: 4, 5, 28, 52, 69 with the red Powerball 20. The Power Play multiplier was 3X.

While the estimated $1.5 billion grand prize went unclaimed, the drawing was far from a bust for players.

• $1 Million Winners: Tickets matching all five white balls were sold in California, Florida, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Ohio, and two in Michigan.
• Smaller Prizes: According to officials, 112 tickets won $50,000, and 22 tickets snagged $150,000 prizes.
• Double Play: A ticket in New Jersey won $500,000 by matching all five black balls in the Double Play drawing.

A Historic Drought

The reason for this astronomical jackpot is a record-setting dry spell. There has been no Powerball jackpot winner since September 6, marking 45 consecutive drawings without a top-prize winner. This drought surpasses the previous record of 42 drawings set in 2021.

“Powerball is giving players a chance to dream bigger than ever this holiday season,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair. “Every ticket sold not only offers the chance at a life-changing prize but also supports important public programs.”

Cash vs. Annuity: The Breakdown

If a lucky player defies the 1 in 292.2 million odds on Monday night, they will face the ultimate financial decision:

1. Annuity Option: An estimated $1.6 billion paid out over 30 years.
2. Lump Sum: A one-time cash payment estimated at $735.3 million.

Most winners historically opt for the cash lump sum.

How to Play

• Next Drawing: Monday, Dec. 22 at 10:59 p.m. ET.
• Ticket Cost: $2 per play.
• Availability: Powerball is played in 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

As excitement builds, officials encourage everyone to enjoy the thrill responsibly.

Related Reads: 

• Powerball jackpot climbs to $1.6 billion after no big winner in Saturday’s drawing
• $1.1 billion Powerball jackpot up next this Monday | Powerball
• Check your tickets! Multiple winning Powerball tickets sold in Ohio