Mega Millions $1.22 Billion Jackpot: Drawing Time and How to Watch
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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.
When and Where to Watch
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 Mega Millions jackpot reaches $792 million. The winner would walk away with $291 million after taxes if they choose the lump sum. pic.twitter.com/wdrtfw5OsA
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) March 14, 2024
Why This Jackpot Is Historic
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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.
What to Know About Playing Mega Millions
Participating in the Mega Millions is straightforward:
- Choose Your Numbers: Select six numbers—five white balls ranging from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball between 1 and 25.
- Quick Picks: If you’re undecided, the “Quick Pick” option allows the system to generate random numbers for you.
- Megaplier: For an additional $1, you can multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2x, 3x, 4x, or even 5x, depending on the Megaplier drawn.
Tickets cost $2 and are available at gas stations, convenience stores, grocery outlets, and online in select states.
What to Expect
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.
Top 10 Mega Millions Jackpots
Here’s a list of the largest jackpots in Mega Millions history:
- $1.602 billion – August 8, 2023, Florida
- $1.537 billion – October 23, 2018, South Carolina
- $1.348 billion – January 13, 2023, Maine
- $1.337 billion – July 29, 2022, Illinois
- $1.22 billion – December 27, 2024 (current)
- $1.128 billion – March 26, 2024, New Jersey
- $1.050 billion – January 22, 2021, Michigan
- $810 million – September 10, 2024, Texas
- $656 million – March 30, 2012, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland
- $648 million – December 17, 2013, California, Georgia
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.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
