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As the festive season in Spain comes to a close, the anticipation for one of the country's most beloved lottery events is building up. The Lotería del Niño, or the Child's Lottery, is set to take place on January 6, 2025, coinciding with the celebration of the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings' Day.

A Rich Cultural Heritage

The Lotería del Niño has a long and storied history, dating back to 1868. However, it was not until 1941 that it was formally recognized and organized into the event we know today. This lottery is the second most important draw in Spain, following the Christmas Lottery, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many Spaniards and expats alike.

The Big Day: Date, Time, and How to Watch

The draw will commence at 12:00 PM local time on January 6, 2025, live from the Salón del Sorteo de Loterías in Madrid. This event will be broadcast live on Spanish TV and available to stream online, allowing participants and enthusiasts to watch the excitement unfold.

Prize Structure and Odds

This year's Lotería del Niño promises an impressive prize pool of 770 million euros, distributed across various categories. The top prizes include: - First Prize: 2 million euros per series, translating to 200,000 euros per décimo (tenth). - Second Prize: 750,000 euros per series, or 75,000 euros per décimo. - Third Prize: 250,000 euros per series, or 25,000 euros per décimo.

In addition to these major prizes, there are numerous smaller awards, including prizes for matching numbers at various digit lengths and categories. Notably, 37,920 out of 100,000 possible numbers will be winning numbers, making the odds of winning significantly higher than in many other lottery formats.

Increased Chances of Winning

One of the appealing aspects of the Lotería del Niño is the higher probability of winning compared to the Christmas Lottery. With 37,920 winning numbers, participants have a 37% chance of winning some prize, which includes various reintegros (refunds) that can cover the 20-euro ticket price.

Tax Implications

For those lucky enough to win, it's important to note that Hacienda (the Spanish tax authority) will take a 20% cut from prizes exceeding 40,000 euros. For example, a winner of the first prize would take home 168,000 euros net after taxes.

Historical Significance and Notable Winners

The Lotería del Niño has a history of distributing prizes across various regions in Spain. Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have been notable places for winning top prizes. Last year, the first prize was won by the number 94974, with tickets sold in multiple provinces including Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga.

Where to Buy Tickets

Ticket sales for the Lotería del Niño began in October and will cease on January 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Interested participants can purchase tickets from authorized lottery retailers or online to avoid the holiday rush.

A Cultural Celebration

The Lotería del Niño is more than just a lottery; it is a significant cultural tradition that marks the beginning of the year with hope and excitement. As children unwrap their gifts from the Three Kings, adults will be holding their breath, hoping to start 2025 with a financial windfall.

For expats in Spain, participating in the Lotería del Niño is a great way to immerse themselves in local culture and possibly win life-changing sums. With its rich history, favorable odds, and widespread participation, this lottery event is an exciting and anticipated part of Spain's festive calendar.