Christmas Eve Powerball Jackpot Climbs To $1.7B: What To Know In California

Santa Claus might have a big check on his sled on Christmas Eve for a lucky California resident, with the latest Powerball jackpot estimated to be around $1.7 billion during the next drawing on Wednesday, according to lottery officials.

If won, the jackpot would become the fourth-largest lottery prize in U.S. history. Californians have won record jackpots three times in the last ten years — including the largest ever of $2.04 billion in 2022.

Still, the chances of winning the actual jackpot are not good as the odds are currently at 1 in 292.2 million.

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Although nobody hit the jackpot on Monday, eight people nationwide won $1 million after their tickets matched all five white balls. Those tickets were sold in California, Florida, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan (2), New Hampshire and Ohio, according to lottery officials.

“Powerball is giving players a chance to dream bigger than ever this holiday season,” Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO, said in a statement Monday. “Every ticket sold not only offers the chance at a life-changing prize but also supports important public programs and services in communities nationwide. We encourage everyone to enjoy the thrill responsibly.”