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Spain’s Beloved Christmas Lottery “El Gordo” Kicks Off Holiday Season with €2.71 Billion in Prizes
A Record-Breaking Prize Pool
This year, Spain’s iconic Christmas lottery, El Gordo (The Fat One), featured a total prize pool of €2.71 billion, surpassing last year’s €2.59 billion. Known as the world’s largest lottery by total payout, the event continues to captivate the nation.
The Grand Prize: “El Gordo”
The top prize, El Gordo, was won in Logroño, the capital of the La Rioja region, famous for its wine production. The winning ticket offered €400,000 before taxes for every full share purchased, making it a life-changing moment for many.
A Festive Event at Teatro Real
The draw took place at Madrid’s Teatro Real, where young pupils from the San Ildefonso School performed the traditional singing of the winning numbers. The audience, dressed in Santa hats, regional costumes, and with lucky charms in hand, added to the lively atmosphere.
A Community Celebration
In Spain, the Christmas lottery is more than just a gamble—it’s a communal event. Families, friends, co-workers, and even clubs often pool their resources to buy tickets together. Each “décimo” (a one-tenth share of a ticket) costs €20, fostering a strong sense of togetherness when winnings are shared.
Historical Roots
The lottery tradition dates back to 1812, when it was introduced during the Napoleonic Wars. Originally designed to raise funds for Spain’s fight for independence, it has since evolved into a deeply rooted cultural event.
A Nation’s Wishes
This year, some participants hoped the winnings would benefit areas hit by adversity, such as Valencia, which suffered from severe flooding in October. Such sentiments reflect the solidarity often seen during this festive occasion.
Conclusion
The Christmas lottery remains a cherished part of Spain’s holiday season, combining history, community spirit, and festive celebration. With its rich traditions and life-changing prizes, it continues to unite the nation in joy and hope.