The Mega Millions jackpot has reached a staggering $825 million this holiday season, marking a significant increase in the prize. In the latest drawing, no ticket successfully matched all six winning numbers – 56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 18 – leaving the grand prize unclaimed. However, some fortunate players struck it big by matching five numbers. Notably, two tickets sold in California, one in Louisiana, and one in Oklahoma won $1 million each. Moreover, one ticket sold in North Carolina matched all five numbers and the megaplier, resulting in a $4 million payout.
In addition to the major wins, there were several smaller but still substantial prizes. Some players who matched four numbers plus the Mega Ball took home as much as $40,000, while 38 tickets won $10,000 each, with three of those winning tickets sold in Illinois.
Looking ahead, the next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Friday, December 20, with an estimated jackpot of $825 million. If someone claims the prize, the cash option would be approximately $382.2 million. This potential win would be historic, as it would become the largest December prize ever and the seventh-largest in the history of the game.
Since its inception in 2002, December has seen 13 Mega Millions jackpots, with most being claimed prior to Christmas. Interestingly, there has never been a jackpot winner on Christmas Day itself, despite drawings being conducted on that day six times in past years.
This year has been notably quiet for the Mega Millions, with only three jackpots awarded, marking the fewest wins in any year since the game began.
As excitement builds for the upcoming drawing, players are reminded that tickets are available for just $2 each. It’s essential to stay tuned for the drawing results, which occur at 10 p.m. CT on Friday.
Overall, the prospect of a massive jackpot not only brings thrill to potential winners but also prompts a sense of hope and dreams during the festive season, as many players partake in the chance of a lifetime.