The Mega Millions jackpot is soaring this holiday season, now reaching an impressive $825 million. This increase comes after Tuesday’s drawing failed to produce a jackpot winner from the six drawn numbers: 56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 18. However, several players still celebrated significant wins; four tickets matched five numbers to claim $1 million, with two sold in California and one each in Louisiana and Oklahoma.
Notably, a North Carolina ticket hit the jackpot for five numbers plus the megaplier, earning a total of $4 million. Additionally, some players matched four regular numbers plus the Mega Ball, winning up to $40,000, while 38 players snagged $10,000 prizes from the drawing, including three in Illinois.
The next Mega Millions draw is scheduled for Friday, December 20, with a jackpot estimated at $825 million. If someone wins at that amount, it would mark the largest November prize ever and the seventh largest in all of Mega Millions history. Since 2002, 13 jackpots have been won in December, primarily before Christmas. Interestingly, no jackpot has ever been won on Christmas Day, despite six drawings taking place on that date in years past.
With only three Mega Millions jackpots claimed this year, it stands as the fewest ever won in a single year. Tickets for the draw are priced at $2 each, but it’s worth noting that ticket prices will more than double in 2025.
This enormous jackpot allows people to dream big, especially as the holiday season approaches. For many, the prospect of winning such a life-changing sum brings a glimmer of hope and excitement during the festive season, setting the stage for a memorable holiday experience.
In summary, the Mega Millions jackpot has reached an unprecedented height, and despite the lack of a winner, numerous individuals still walked away with significant prizes, reinforcing the excitement surrounding the game.