Spanish Christmas Lottery

Decimos Lotería de Navidad 2020

Spanish Christmas Lottery (Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad or simply Lotería de Navidad) is a national lottery that has been organized every year since 1812 by a branch of the Spanish Public Administration, now called Loterías y Apuestas del Estado. The draw takes place on December 22 and is considered the biggest lottery draw worldwide in terms of total prize payout. As an event deeply embedded in Spanish culture, it brings widespread media attention and public participation across the country.

History

The Spanish Christmas Lottery originated in 1812 in Cádiz as a means to raise funds for the Spanish war effort against Napoleon's troops. It was later moved to Madrid, where the first draw took place on December 18, 1812. The lottery has been held annually ever since, becoming a traditional Christmas event. Its format and the rituals surrounding the draw have become a significant part of Spanish heritage, with families, friends, and co-workers commonly pooling resources to buy tickets.

Format

The lottery's format has evolved over the years but retains many traditional elements. Tickets are printed in series, with each ticket divided into ten shares known as décimos. Participants can purchase a whole ticket or a share of a ticket. The lottery features a complex system of draws, with thousands of numbers drawn for various prizes. The largest prize, El Gordo (the Fat One), garners the most attention, but there are many smaller prizes.

The drawing ceremony is a key part of the event's tradition. Held at the Teatro Real de Madrid, it features schoolchildren from San Ildefonso School drawing the numbers and corresponding prizes and singing them out to the public, a practice that dates back to the 18th century.

Cultural Impact

The Spanish Christmas Lottery is more than just a gambling event; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings together people from all walks of life. The anticipation and excitement surrounding El Gordo and other prizes create a festive atmosphere that marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Spain. The event is broadcast live on television and radio, with millions tuning in to watch the draw unfold.

The lottery also has a significant impact on the economy, with billions of euros spent on tickets each year. It is common for people to buy tickets in different towns or regions in the belief that some locations are luckier than others.

Criticism

Despite its popularity, the Spanish Christmas Lottery has faced criticism. Some argue that it encourages gambling behavior and can lead to financial problems for individuals who spend beyond their means on tickets. However, supporters counter that the communal aspect of the event and the tradition of sharing winnings mitigate these concerns.

Conclusion

The Spanish Christmas Lottery remains a cherished tradition in Spain, symbolizing hope, luck, and the start of the holiday season. Its rich history, cultural significance, and the excitement it generates make it a unique event that captures the imagination of the Spanish public and lottery enthusiasts around the world.

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