The Mega Millions jackpot has surged this holiday season, reaching a staggering $825 million for the upcoming drawing. This increase comes following Tuesday’s drawing where no ticket matched all six numbers—56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 18—to claim the jackpot. However, several players still celebrated wins, with multiple tickets matching five numbers and securing $1 million each. These winners included two tickets from California and one ticket each from Louisiana and Oklahoma.
Additionally, a ticket sold in North Carolina matched all five numbers along with the megaplier, resulting in a substantial $4 million prize. Other players also enjoyed winnings up to $40,000 by matching four numbers plus the Mega Ball, while 38 tickets won $10,000, including three from Illinois.
The next Mega Millions drawing is set for Friday, December 20, with the potential jackpot estimated at $825 million. If won at this level, it would mark the largest prize ever awarded in December and rank as the seventh largest in the history of Mega Millions. Since its inception in 2002, December has seen 13 Mega Millions jackpots, with most occurring before the Christmas holiday. Notably, there has never been a jackpot win on Christmas Day, despite six drawings being held on that day over the years.
This year has been notable for the Mega Millions, recording only three jackpot wins, making it the fewest in a single year since the game’s launch. The drawing will occur at 10 p.m. CT on Friday, and tickets are currently priced at $2, although prices are slated to more than double by 2025.
In summary, the excitement surrounding the Mega Millions jackpot is at an all-time high, providing a chance for many to dream of life-changing wins just in time for the holidays. As the drawing approaches, players are filled with anticipation, hoping to turn their holiday wishes into reality.
For those participating, it is important to play responsibly and remember that while the odds can be daunting, the thrill of the game is in the experience itself!