The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to an estimated $944 million following the December 20, 2024, drawing, setting a new record for December and becoming the seventh-largest prize in the history of the game, as ABC News reported. This increase comes after no ticket matched all six numbers in the drawing, allowing the jackpot to grow further. With the next drawing scheduled for December 24, 2024, the prize is expected to continue its upward trajectory, potentially surpassing the $1 billion mark if no winner is found.
The winning numbers for the December 20 drawing were 2, 20, 51, 56, 67, with the Mega Ball 19, according to CNN. The Megaplier option was 2x. While no one claimed the jackpot, there were several smaller prizes distributed across the country. Despite the lack of a jackpot winner, the anticipation surrounding the drawing is building, especially with the holidays fueling a surge in ticket sales. Many players are purchasing tickets as holiday gifts or in the spirit of the season, which has contributed to the impressive rise in the prize.
The current Mega Millions jackpot is the largest December prize in the game’s history. If the jackpot is not claimed in the upcoming drawing, it could become the first-ever $1 billion jackpot in December. This would be a major milestone for the lottery, highlighting its ongoing popularity. The excitement surrounding the growing jackpot has not only captured the attention of regular players but has also drawn in new participants looking for a chance at the massive windfall.
Tickets for the next drawing will be available until 10:45 p.m. Eastern Time on December 24, 2024. The drawing itself will take place at 11 p.m. Eastern Time. Players are encouraged to check their tickets immediately after the drawing to see if they’ve won any of the prizes, including the jackpot or one of the smaller prizes. To play, participants select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Players can also choose to add the Megaplier option for an additional $1 per play, which multiplies the value of non-jackpot prizes.
With odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot at approximately 1 in 302.6 million, as USA Today reported, the chances of taking home the grand prize are slim. However, the growing jackpot continues to generate excitement, and with the holidays providing an added boost to ticket sales, more players are joining the fray for their shot at the billion-dollar prize.
As the jackpot continues to rise, officials are urging players to gamble responsibly and play within their means. Resources on responsible gaming are available through state lottery websites and national organizations, ensuring that players are informed as they take part in one of the country’s most popular lottery games.
With the possibility of a billion-dollar prize just days away, the Mega Millions game has become one of the most talked-about lottery events this holiday season.
