JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – The Powerball jackpot has climbed to $1.7 billion on Christmas Eve after no tickets matched all six numbers in Monday night’s drawing.
Powerball hopefuls crowded gas stations and convenience stores Wednesday, hoping the holiday season would bring a lucky break as the jackpot nears the $2 billion mark.
“I’m excited, not nervous. I mean, it’s only a few dollars, but if I win, it’d be awesome,” said Aja Vonreichenbach, a Powerball player.
Others felt compelled to test their luck as the number rises.
“Something called me to stop here today,” said Victor Case, another Powerball player.
At $1.7 billion, this jackpot is the fourth largest in Powerball history. Some people said they hope to win, so they can give back to the community and those who need it most.
“I’d donate a lot of the money and pass it along,” said Greg Cribb. “There will be some happy people in our lives.”
George Hargrove said he would help his family and the homeless.
“I’d take care of my family – six or seven grandkids – plus a lot of brothers and sisters I’d help out,” Hargrove said. “I would also try to do something for the homeless. That’s the biggest thing, the homeless vets in Jacksonville.”
The jackpot grew after someone won $1.79 billion in September. In-store purchases in North Carolina end at 9:59 p.m. and online purchases end at 9:57 p.m.
Tonight’s drawing is not expected to be affected by the holiday, according to a Powerball spokesperson.
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in over 292 million.
Copyright 2025 WITN. All rights reserved.