RALEIGH – North Carolinians are holding their breath as tonight’s Powerball drawing approaches, with a staggering $1.1 billion jackpot on the line that could transform someone’s Labor Day weekend into an unforgettable celebration.
The massive prize represents the fifth-largest jackpot in Powerball history. Winners who claim the top prize can choose between the full $1.1 billion paid out as an annuity over 30 years or an immediate lump sum payment of $498.4 million.
“After the parades, picnics, and cook-outs, winning that big of a jackpot would make a Labor Day weekend a North Carolinian would never forget,” said Mark Michalko, chief executive officer of the N.C. Education Lottery. “Enjoy dreaming about what you might do if you win. And remember, it only takes one ticket to win.”
Tonight’s drawing marks the largest jackpot since April 6, 2024, when an Oregon resident claimed a $1.3 billion Powerball prize.
While Saturday’s drawing failed to produce a jackpot winner, several North Carolina players secured substantial consolation prizes. A $3 Power Play ticket sold at Rollinghill Express on West Roosevelt Boulevard in Monroe earned its holder $150,000. Meanwhile, two $50,000 winning tickets were purchased at Short Trip #2 on Stoney Point Road in Fayetteville and Han-Dee Hugo’s on East Innes Street in Salisbury. All winners have 180 days from the drawing date to claim their prizes.
Lottery officials remind players that tickets remain available through multiple channels leading up to tonight’s drawing. Powerball tickets can be purchased at any authorized lottery retail location throughout the state, online at www.nclottery.com, or through the NC Lottery Official Mobile App.
Despite the excitement surrounding the record-breaking jackpot, lottery officials emphasize the astronomical odds players face. The chances of matching all five white balls and the red Powerball stand at approximately 1 in 292 million.
The North Carolina Education Lottery continues to direct proceeds toward educational programs across all 100 counties in the state. Information about the lottery’s impact on local communities is available in the “Impact” section of the organization’s website.
As Labor Day festivities wind down across the Tar Heel State, millions of residents will be watching tonight’s drawing to see if North Carolina produces the next Powerball billionaire.
