2025 Press Releases

Bear Man Wins $20,000 Prize Playing 20X THE CELEBRATION

Dover, DE — The Delaware Lottery is celebrating another big win in Bear. John Sweeney, a 61-year-old Delaware native, claimed a $20,000 prize from the 20X THE CELEBRATION Instant Game at Lottery Headquarters on September 19, 2025. The winning ticket was purchased at Royal Farms #161, located at 1551 Pulaski Highway in Bear.

Mr. Sweeney, who has been playing since 1992 and typically buys about five tickets, is no stranger to winning. He also claimed a $20,000 prize earlier this year in June. When asked about his reaction this time, he said he was “very happy” and first shared the news with his girlfriend.

The father of three said he plans to use his winnings to renovate his bathroom and noted that the prize will make life financially easier.

“We’re delighted for John and especially glad to know this prize will help him move forward with his planned home renovations and finally get that dream bathroom. We all wish him great success with his upcoming project and the best of luck with all his plans for the future,” said Helene Keeley, Director of the Delaware Lottery.

20X THE CELEBRATION is a $5 Instant Game that offers players the chance to win prizes up to $20,000. There’s still one $20,000 top prize, six $500 prizes and more than two-hundred and fifty $100 prizes left. Tickets are available statewide at Delaware Lottery retailers.

About the Delaware Lottery:
Since the start of operations in 1975, the Delaware Lottery has contributed $6.0 billion to the state’s General Fund to help finance needed state services that benefit everyone in Delaware. The Lottery offers a variety of games: POWERBALL^®, MEGA MILLIONS^®, LOTTO AMERICA^®, MULTI-WIN LOTTO, LUCKY FOR LIFE^®, PLAY 3, PLAY 4, PLAY 5, Keno^®, Sports Lottery and Instant Games, iGaming, Video Lottery and Table Games. Delaware Lottery game and promotional details are available at delottery.com, at licensed locations, and from the Lottery’s office in Dover.

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The Delaware Lottery only publishes winner names with their consent.