A historic moment unfolded in Cottonwood, California, as a single lucky ticket claimed the massive $1.22 billion Mega Millions jackpot from the December 27th drawing. Sold at Sunshine Food and Gas on Rhonda Road, this win is not only a life-changer for the ticket holder but also a milestone for the town.
Winning Numbers and Prize Details
The winning numbers were 3, 7, 37, 49, 55, with the gold Mega Ball 6, and a multiplier of 3X. The winner now faces an exciting choice: receive the entire jackpot in annual installments or opt for a one-time cash payout of $549.7 million.
This win marks the fifth-largest Mega Millions jackpot in history and comes after a dry spell with no jackpot winners since September. That prior win saw a Texas resident take home $552 million.
Cottonwood: A Small Town in the Spotlight
Cottonwood, a quaint town about 146 miles north of Sacramento, became the epicenter of lottery buzz after the jackpot-winning ticket was confirmed. Sunshine Food and Gas, the store where the winning ticket was purchased, is now part of California lottery history.
Joshua Johnston, lead director for the Mega Millions Consortium, celebrated the occasion:
“This incredible win is a testament to the joy and hope the lottery brings to players while also supporting countless good causes across the nation.”
December 27 Mega Millions Draw Highlights
Here’s a breakdown of the winning combination for the December 27 draw:
- White Balls: 3, 7, 37, 49, 55
- Gold Mega Ball: 6
- Multiplier: 3X
While the jackpot winner stole the spotlight, five tickets nationwide also earned $1 million each.
How to Play Mega Millions
Dreaming of your own jackpot win? Here’s how you can play Mega Millions:
- Purchase tickets at authorized retailers like gas stations, grocery stores, or convenience stores.
- Select six numbers: five white balls ranging from 1–70 and one gold Mega Ball from 1–25.
- Prefer surprises? Opt for a “Quick Pick” or “Easy Pick,” where the system selects numbers for you.
For an additional $1, players can add the “Megaplier,” which multiplies non-jackpot prizes by 2X, 3X, 4X, or 5X.
In certain states, tickets are available online through services like Jackpocket, making participation even easier.
The Broader Impact of Lottery Sales
While lottery games bring personal fortune to winners, they also generate substantial funds for public causes. From educational programs to community parks, ticket sales contribute to improving lives nationwide.
A Year to Remember
This jackpot win closes out 2024 with a bang, making it a year to remember for the lucky Cottonwood resident. With dreams now within reach, this extraordinary win underscores the life-changing power of the lottery.
For those eager to try their luck, remember to play responsibly. Who knows? The next big winner could be you.
