The festive spirit swept through Granada as the results of the 2024 Christmas Lottery, or Lotería de Navidad, unfolded, painting the province with joy and excitement. On December 22, the loteria reverberated through the streets, captivating the attention of thousands, with residents eagerly awaiting their chance to win big. The annual event, steeped in tradition, has significant importance among the locals—so much so, each resident is estimated to spend around €75.67 on lottery tickets, far exceeding the regional average of €61.01.
This year's lottery was particularly generous, distributing over €5.8 million across the province, with notable wins concentrated mainly in Baza and Santa Fe. The results were warmly welcomed, especially considering the challenging economic climate affecting many.
Topping the list of prizes was the third place award for ticket number 11.840, which fetched €500,000, or €50,000 per ticket. This number was sold at six different locations, including the famed Chalo kiosk on Plaza Nueva, bringing jubilance to lottery aficionados frequenting the area, as well as to fortunate shoppers from places like Cenes de la Vega and Loja, where it was also sold.
Paco Bartolomé, part of the Chalo kiosk's third-generation ownership, couldn't hide his excitement, expressing, “We’re on cloud nine!” After several years where luck seemingly overlooked them, the kiosk had again emerged as one of the region's lottery heavyweights, distributing not only the third place tickets but also several other prizes. This year, the Chalo issued its fair share of winnings, tallying up to €94,000 from multiple sales.
Another significant winner was Baza, whose administration number two sold 600 tickets of the fifth prize number 45.456, accruing approximately €3.6 million for residents there. Mayor Pedro Justo Ramos of Baza reported heartwarming stories of families who benefitted immensely from the win, providing much-needed relief for those facing financial difficulties.
While the largest prize, known as El Gordo, eluded Granada this year—going instead to Logroño—the provincial lottery saw multiple distributions of smaller but nonetheless impactful winnings. For example, ticket number 74.778 secured €200,000 per ticket, with notable distribution through the Chalo kiosk alongside various other outlets throughout the region, including Cúllar Vega and Purchil. The administration at the bus station also contributed by selling ticket number 60.622, bringing good fortune to travelers and city residents alike.
The numbers proceeded to gather up even more excitement as children from San Ildefonso sang the winning numbers, echoing through the streets, mixed with enthusiastic shouts and celebration all across Granada. The city was vibrant with cheer, as friends and families shared the thrill of winning. Among these moments were the euphoric reactions to micro-winnings, with smaller prizes ranging from €100 per ticket for various winning numbers stimulating excitement across direct ticket holding communities.
What stands out is the story of El Chalo, which has become synonymous with the Christmas Lottery spirit for the Granada locals. Year after year, this cozy kiosk seems to hold the luck of the draw, positioning itself as the go-to place for hopeful ticket buyers. Regulars and curious passersby alike make their way to Chalo, lured by the history of wins.
Results also showed numbers like 40.014, which fetched the second largest prize of €1,250,000, sold at various point-of-sale locations including Santa Fe, giving locals something to look forward to during the holidays.
While some winners are still waiting to be identified, the municipality of Santa Fe was celebrated for its sales, promising eager anticipation as the paperwork for claim processes begins. By the day's end, the total amount of €5.8 million has purportedly been circulated, serving as hope and relief to many.
On this festive day, the atmosphere was electric with energy, buoyed by traditions and communal celebrations. Despite its ups and downs over the years, the Christmas Lottery continues to symbolize hope and joy during the winter cheer, reminding residents of the magic still alive in their town as tickets continue to be gathered and won.
Granada's story this Christmas is not merely about numbers; it's about communities coming together, families sharing warmth, and hope blooming during winter. It reminds us all of the spirit of giving and joy during the holiday season.
