Mega Millions $1.22 billion jackpot winning numbers announced

The $1.22 billion Mega Millions jackpot has soared to become the fifth-largest prize in the game's history,

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The Mega Millions jackpot has reached an astronomical $1.22 billion after no ticket matched all six numbers during the Christmas Eve drawing.

This staggering amount is now the fifth-largest jackpot in the history of the game.

The winning numbers for Friday, Dec. 27, were: 3, 7, 37, 49, 55, with the Mega Ball: 6 and Megaplier: 3X.

If claimed, the prize comes with a cash option of $549.7 million. As players across the U.S. eagerly await the results, the lottery’s impact as a popular holiday gift has brought additional excitement.

“We know that many people will likely receive tickets to Friday’s drawing as holiday gifts,” Joshua Johnston, lead director for the Mega Millions Consortium, said before the jackpot climbed further. “What a gift that would turn out to be if you ended up with a ticket worth a $1.22 billion jackpot.”

Jackpot history and recent wins

The last time a Mega Millions jackpot was won was on Sept. 10 in Texas, where a ticket secured a $552 million prize. The current jackpot's climb demonstrates how difficult it is to match all six numbers, with odds of approximately 1 in 302.6 million.

How to play Mega Millions

Mega Millions players must select six numbers: five white ball numbers between 1 and 70 and a gold Mega Ball number between 1 and 25. Players can opt for the “Quick Pick” feature to have numbers randomly selected.

For an extra dollar, players can add the “Megaplier” option to multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2X, 3X, 4X, or 5X, depending on the ball drawn.

Tickets are available for purchase in most U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., at gas stations, convenience stores, and online in some areas through services like Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier for the USA TODAY Network.

What happens if you win?

If you hold the winning ticket, Mega Millions officials advise keeping quiet about your win and consulting with financial and legal advisors before coming forward. Winners can choose between a lump sum cash option or annual instalments spread over 30 years.

What's next?

The next Mega Millions drawing will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 31, if no ticket claims the $1.22 billion prize. Players still have time to purchase tickets for the next chance at winning one of the largest jackpots in history.