ROSENBERG, Texas – On Christmas Eve, as homes across Houston glow with holiday lights, many Houstonians are chasing a different kind of sparkle: a Powerball jackpot worth $1.7 billion.
The massive prize is now the fourth-largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history, according to Powerball officials. The drawing is scheduled for Monday night, adding extra excitement for players hoping for a life-changing win just before Christmas Day.
From the Heights to Midtown and from Montrose to Spring Branch, Houstonians stopped at convenience stores on their way to holiday plans, clutching tickets and imagining what they might do if their numbers are called.
Each ticket offers a simple shot at the dream: six numbers and the chance to see your name flash across the big screen.
At Lucky Rudy’s in Rosenberg, the demand was clear.
Tickets printed nonstop as a steady line of customers waited their turn, many hoping the drawing would bring more than just holiday cheer.
Some players said they would retire if they won. Others said they would use the money to help family members and ease financial stress. Still, a few laughed it off, saying the biggest goal would be to “share the blessing.”
With the drawing happening on Christmas Eve, anticipation is running high across the Houston area.
As players hold onto their tickets, the city waits to see if those little white balls will turn one holiday wish into reality.
It takes just one ticket, six numbers and a dream shining bright, a fitting moment for a Powerball drawing on the night before Christmas.