The Mega Millions drawing is on Christmas Eve; jackpot approaching $1 billion

On By Littum

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Do you feel lucky? The Mega Millions draw is set for Christmas Eve, and the jackpot has increased to almost 1 billion.

After no one matched all five numbers and the Mega Ball on December 20, i Mega Millions draw for $862 millionthe top prize jumped to $944 million, according to Mega Millions online. A few days later, the total jackpot grew to $970 million (or $439 million in cash).

If someone wins, the grand prize will be the largest jackpot ever won in the month of December.

Here’s what you need to know about Tuesday night’s drawing, including how to play.

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When is the next Mega Millions drawing?

The winning numbers will be drawn on Tuesday 24 December at 11 p.m. ET.

The Mega Millions jackpot was last won in Texas in September, and the winner took home $810 million in winnings, according to lottery officials. However, more than 21.4 million winning tickets have been sold in the 29 drawings since then.

How much is a Mega Millions ticket?

A Mega Millions ticket costs $2 per game.

There are a total of nine ways to win a prize – from $2 to the grand prize.

How to play Mega Millions

Players can visit convenience stores, gas stations, or grocery stores to purchase a ticket. In some states, you can buy tickets online.

To play, select six numbers. Five numbers will be white balls from 1 to 70. Gold Mega Ball is a number between 1 and 25.

Players can also request a “Quick Pick” or an “Easy Pick” and the computer will randomly generate the numbers for you.

You can also order tickets online via Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier from the USA TODAY Networkin these US states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, DC and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to select your lottery game and numbers, place your order, view your ticket and claim your winnings all from your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn money for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any state lottery.

Gambling problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her at X @nataliealund.