The Mega Millions jackpot has reached a staggering $1.22 billion for the upcoming drawing on Friday, December 27, 2024. This massive prize marks the fifth-largest in the game’s history and has been growing since September, with no ticket matching all six numbers since a Texas winner claimed $810 million.
The drawing is set to take place at 11 p.m. ET on Friday. While lottery participants across the United States can tune in to their local broadcasts, residents of Massachusetts can catch the live stream online. The official Mega Millions YouTube channel will broadcast the event, and the winning numbers will also be posted on the game’s website shortly after the drawing concludes.
The $1.22 billion jackpot is one of the largest ever in Mega Millions history, following only a handful of record-breaking wins. The top prize was $1.602 billion, won in Florida on August 8, 2023. Other notable jackpots include $1.537 billion in South Carolina (2018) and $1.348 billion in Maine (January 2023).
Notably, 2024 has seen an unusually low number of jackpot winners, with only three grand prizes claimed all year. This is the lowest since Mega Millions began. The last major win occurred on September 10, 2024, when a Texas ticket holder scooped up $552 million.
Participating in the Mega Millions is straightforward:
Tickets cost $2 and are available at gas stations, convenience stores, grocery outlets, and online in select states.
Friday’s drawing could make history if a winner claims the billion-dollar jackpot. The lump-sum cash payout is estimated at $516.1 million after taxes
For non-residents and foreigners in the United States, it’s worth noting that you are eligible to play Mega Millions, but tickets must be purchased within the country.
Here’s a list of the largest jackpots in Mega Millions history:
As anticipation builds for Friday’s drawing, millions of hopeful players are dreaming of hitting the jackpot. Whether you’re a seasoned participant or trying your luck for the first time, this could be your chance at life-changing riches.