Christmas Miracle in the Natural State: Arkansas Ticket Claims Historic $1.817 Billion Powerball Jackpot

December 26, 2025

A single Powerball ticket sold in Arkansas has turned one lucky player into a billionaire overnight, scooping up a staggering $1.817 billion jackpot in the Christmas Eve drawing—the second-largest lottery prize in U.S. history.

Ultimate Holiday Gift: Jackpot Ends Epic Roll

The winning numbers drawn on December 24 were 4, 25, 31, 52, 59, with the red Powerball 19 and a 2x Power Play multiplier. Brisk last-minute ticket sales propelled the prize from an estimated $1.7 billion to $1.817 billion, delivering a life-altering windfall just in time for the holidays.

This marks the end of a record 47-drawing jackpot run, the longest in Powerball history, after no top winner emerged since early September.

The fortunate ticket was purchased at a Murphy USA gas station in Cabot, a small community about 26 miles northeast of Little Rock. The retailer is expected to receive a substantial bonus for selling the golden ticket.

Second-Largest Prize Ever: A Rare Arkansas Win

With a cash option valued at approximately $834.9 million before taxes, the jackpot ranks as the biggest Powerball prize of 2025 and second only to the $2.04 billion won in California in 2022.

This is just the second time a Powerball jackpot has landed in Arkansas, the first occurring back in 2010. Lottery enthusiasts across the state—and nation—are buzzing with excitement over the rare stroke of luck.

The winner has the choice of annuity payments spread over 30 years or the lump-sum cash payout, both subject to federal and state taxes.

Who Is the Mystery Billionaire?

Under Arkansas law, winners of prizes over $500,000 can remain anonymous for up to three years, meaning the identity of this newest billionaire may never be revealed publicly.

As claim centers reopen after the holidays, speculation swirls about whether the winner will step forward soon or savor the secrecy.

Boost for Scholarships and Communities

Proceeds from Powerball sales through the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery fund college scholarships for state residents, contributing to education and public programs. Massive jackpots like this one drive unprecedented ticket sales, benefiting good causes nationwide.

Several other tickets matched five numbers to win $1 million each, sold in states including California, Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Jackpot Resets: Next Drawing Looms

With the massive prize claimed, Powerball resets to an estimated $20 million for the upcoming Saturday drawing, offering fresh dreams to players everywhere.

This Christmas Eve triumph serves as a reminder of the game's improbable magic—odds of 1 in 292.2 million notwithstanding—turning an ordinary gas station stop into a legendary moment.

As the Natural State celebrates its newest (and likely anonymous) billionaire, the story underscores the timeless thrill of lottery luck, delivering joy and wonder during the festive season.

Congratulations to Arkansas's holiday jackpot hero—wherever you are.