Spain's El Gordo Christmas Lottery: A Record-Breaking $2.8 Billion Tradition
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Spain's 'El Gordo' (The Fat One) lottery is a centuries-old Christmas tradition that has become one of the most significant and anticipated events in the country. This year, the lottery distributed a record-breaking prize of more than €2.7 billion ($2.8 billion), making it the largest lottery in the world in terms of total prize money.
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The El Gordo lottery, officially known as 'El Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad,' has been held annually since 1812. It was initially established to raise funds for Spanish troops during Napoleon's invasion. The lottery is unique in its structure, offering numerous prize tiers, which means that a significant number of participants can win something, making it highly popular across Spain.The draw takes place every year on December 22nd at the Teatro Real in Madrid. It is a major event, broadcast live on Spanish television and online, where children from the San Ildefonso school traditionally sing out the winning numbers and prizes. This participation by children has become an iconic part of the event, adding a festive and communal spirit to the lottery.In 2024, the total prize money amounted to €2.7 billion, generated from the sale of 170 million tickets. The biggest prize, known as 'El Gordo,' was €4 million, which translates to a €20,000 payout for each €1 played. Other prizes included €1.25 million for the second prize, €500,000 for the third, and several smaller amounts for the subsequent prizes.The lottery is a significant part of Spanish culture, with an estimated 70-90% of the population participating each year. It is not just about the potential winnings but also about the tradition and the communal experience it fosters. Many people buy tickets from 'lucky' vendors, believing they have a better chance of winning, and it is common for families, friends, and colleagues to pool their resources and buy tickets together.Overall, El Gordo is more than just a lottery; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings together people across Spain, providing hope and excitement during the festive season.