El Gordo: The Biggest Christmas Lottery in Spain!
Christmas is approaching, and in Spain, that means one thing: the excitement of El Gordo, the world's largest Christmas lottery! It's a day when the entire country pauses to watch the draw results. Let's remember that for Spaniards, it's not just a game; it's part of a culture and tradition that has survived even the most difficult times.
Why is El Gordo so special?
El Gordo (officially known as El Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad) is not only one of the oldest lotteries in the world but also the one with the largest prize pool. It's a game with over 200 years of tradition, dating back to 1812. The drawing takes place on December 22nd in Madrid, and its uniqueness lies in the way the winners are announced. Students from Madrid's San Ildefonso School sing the drawn numbers, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Lottery for everyone
Each El Gordo ticket contains ten five-digit numbers and costs €200. However, "tens" (decimos) are also available for €20, making this lottery accessible to a wide audience. It's worth noting that most adult Spaniards participate in this festive tradition. And the amounts are impressive – the jackpot is a whopping €4 million! Prizes are distributed among holders of entire series of tickets and individual coupons, significantly increasing the chances of winning.
It's worth noting that amounts up to €40,000 are tax-free in Spain. For higher winnings, a 21% tax applies on the amount exceeding €40,000.
Where to buy an EL Gordo ticket?
Tickets are available online on the official Loterias y Apuestas del Estado website and at points of sale. The most famous lottery outlet is Doni Manolita in Madrid – it's famous for its numerous winnings, and queuing for a ticket is quite the experience.
Summary
El Gordo offers more than just a chance to win, but above all, a unique atmosphere and a true part of Spanish culture. It's a time when shared hope and joy unite people, creating unforgettable memories.
If you're planning to spend Christmas in Spain, we encourage you to join this wonderful tradition. Who knows, maybe you'll be the one celebrating this year's win?
