The Mega Millions jackpot is making headlines this holiday season as it has now climbed to an impressive $825 million. In the most recent drawing, no tickets were able to match all six numbers—56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 18—leading to the current massive payout. However, a total of four lucky winners successfully matched five numbers, each taking home $1 million. These tickets were sold in California, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, with an additional winning ticket in North Carolina that matched all five numbers and the megaplier, resulting in a $4 million prize.
Additionally, several players walked away with substantial winnings. Among them, some tickets won as much as $40,000 for matching four numbers along with the Mega Ball. Notably, 38 tickets won $10,000, with three of them sold in Illinois, according to the state’s lottery website.
The excitement continues as the next Mega Millions drawing is set for Friday, December 20, with an estimated jackpot of $825 million. The cash option, if won, would amount to $382.2 million. Lottery officials pointed out that should someone claim the jackpot, it would become the largest prize ever won in December and the seventh largest in Mega Millions history.
Since the game’s inception in 2002, 13 Mega Millions jackpots have been won in December, with most of them coming before Christmas. Interestingly, there has never been a jackpot win on Christmas Day, although draws have taken place on that date in several years, including 2007, 2009, and most recently in 2020.
As 2023 winds down, this year has seen only three Mega Millions jackpots claimed, marking it as the year with the fewest winnings since the game’s launch.
The Mega Millions drawing will be held at 10 p.m. CT on Friday, with ticket prices currently set at $2 each. Notably, ticket prices are expected to increase significantly by 2025.
This Mega Millions rise undoubtedly adds an element of excitement and anticipation for participants, especially during the festive season. It serves as a reminder of the hope and dreams that these lottery opportunities can ignite, bringing communities together in speculation and excitement about what could be.
In summary, the Mega Millions jackpot has surged to $825 million, fostering anticipation as players consider the potential life-changing impact of winning. With a rich history of December winnings and ongoing excitement, this season could conceivably shift someone’s fortunes dramatically.