The Mega Millions jackpot has reached an impressive $825 million this holiday season, following a drawing where no ticket matched all six numbers: 56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and the Mega Ball 18. Despite the absence of a jackpot winner, several tickets still achieved significant wins. Notably, four tickets matched five numbers, with two sold in California and one each in Louisiana and Oklahoma, awarding each a prize of $1 million.
In North Carolina, a lucky player matched all five main numbers and the megaplier, resulting in a hefty $4 million payout. Additionally, some ticket holders walked away with prizes as high as $40,000 by matching four numbers plus the Mega Ball. A total of 38 tickets earned $10,000 in the Tuesday drawing, including three sold in Illinois, according to state lottery reports.
Looking ahead, the estimated jackpot for the next Mega Millions drawing, set for Friday, December 20, is an astonishing $825 million. The cash option for this winning jackpot is projected at $382.2 million. If someone claims the jackpot at this level, it will mark the largest December prize ever won and the seventh largest in the history of Mega Millions.
Since the inception of the game in 2002, 13 Mega Millions jackpots have been claimed in December, with most occurring prior to Christmas. Interestingly, no jackpot has ever been won on Christmas Day, even though the drawings have taken place on the holiday six times throughout the years.
This year stands out, as only three jackpots have been won during the entire year, marking it as the lowest number of jackpots won in a single year since the game’s start.
The excitement continues as the Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for 10 p.m. CT on Friday. Tickets are available for purchase at $2 each, although prices are set to rise significantly in 2025.
Overall, this news brings a sense of anticipation and hope for many, especially during this festive season, as individuals dream of life-changing winnings.