The Mega Millions jackpot has surged to an impressive $825 million this holiday season, following the latest drawing where no tickets managed to match all six numbers: 56, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 18. However, not all hope was lost, as several players were able to win substantial prizes. A few lucky winners matched five numbers and took home $1 million each, with two tickets sold in California, and one ticket each sold in Louisiana and Oklahoma.
Additionally, in North Carolina, one player matched all five numbers plus the megaplier, thereby winning $4 million. Other winners included tickets that matched four numbers plus the Mega Ball, with some claiming prizes as high as $40,000. A total of 38 tickets won $10,000 in the latest drawing, including three from Illinois, according to the state’s lottery website.
The upcoming Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Friday, December 20, with an estimated jackpot of $825 million. Should someone hit the jackpot, the cash option would be valued at $382.2 million. Lottery officials noted that if the jackpot is won at this amount, it would mark the largest December prize ever awarded and the seventh largest in the history of Mega Millions.
Since the game’s inception in 2002, there have been 13 December jackpots, with most being won prior to Christmas. Interestingly, no jackpot has ever been claimed on Christmas Day, despite drawings occurring on that date in the past.
This year has seen only three Mega Millions jackpots won so far, making it the least abundant year for jackpot wins since the game’s beginning. As thrill and anticipation builds for Friday night’s drawing, those interested can participate by purchasing tickets for $2 each, although prices are set to more than double by 2025.
In summary, the Mega Millions continues to offer exciting opportunities for players, especially during this festive season, with a record-breaking jackpot at stake that could bring holiday cheer to one lucky winner.