The Mega Millions lottery is generating significant excitement as the jackpot has reached an estimated $680 million for the upcoming drawing on Friday, October 24. Players also have the option to take a cash payout, which is estimated at $318.2 million. This follows a recent win by a lottery player in Virginia, who claimed a $348 million jackpot on June 27.
In addition, the Powerball lottery has its own substantial offering, boasting a jackpot of $344 million with a cash option of $163.7 million, making it another attractive gamble for hopeful players.
As the anticipation builds, the winning numbers for the Mega Millions drawing on October 24, 2025, have been revealed: 11, 18, 31, 51, 56, and the Megaball 24.
Changes instituted in the Mega Millions game as of April 8 have stirred the pot further. The price of a ticket rose from $2 to $5, now including a multiplier option that can increase prizes significantly—up to 10 times for non-jackpot prizes. For example, matching the five white balls can yield prizes ranging from $2 million to $10 million, depending on the multiplier.
The adjustments also saw an increase in the potential winnings across multiple prize tiers. Players can now win at least $10 for matching just the Mega Ball, while matching all five white balls nets at least $2 million. This is a notable enhancement from previous payouts and has driven player interest.
Mega Millions drawings are held every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m., allowing ample opportunity for players nationwide to participate. Tickets can be purchased at various retail locations, including gas stations and grocery stores, and some states now offer the option to buy online through the Jackpocket app, which facilitates digital ticket purchases in select states.
For those looking to get a ticket, it’s important to be aware of the varied deadlines for purchasing, which can range from 15 minutes to over an hour before the drawing, depending on the state.
With jackpot odds currently standing at approximately 290 million to 1, many players remain hopeful despite the long odds. The Mega Millions game is available in 45 states, as well as Washington D.C. and the U.S. Virgin Islands, excluding only Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah.
The Mega Millions and Powerball lotteries continue to capture the imagination of the public, with history showcasing jackpots that stretch into the billions. Just recently, the record for the largest U.S. lottery jackpot was set at $2.04 billion in a Powerball drawing in November 2022.
For those enticed by the thrill and potential riches that the lottery offers, it’s crucial to gamble responsibly and to be informed of the risks associated with lottery play.
