Illinois Lottery has record-setting year for 50th anniversary

Posted on November 4, 2024

*^{They reported $3.86 billion in sales and proceeds of $883.6 million, which both beat last year’s numbers. (WJBC File Photo)}*

By WMBD-TV

CHICAGO – As Illinois Lottery celebrated its 50th year of operation, it also celebrated its third straight record-setting year.

They reported $3.86 billion in sales and proceeds of $883.6 million, which both beat last year’s numbers.

There were also five multi-state jackpots that paid out over $1 billion, which is the first time it has happened, according to the Illinois Lottery.

“Since its inception, the Illinois Lottery has been a valuable state asset, and now 99% of proceeds go into the Common School Fund,” said Governor JB Pritzker

Between May and October, the Illinois Lottery celebrated their 50th anniversary by introducing instant tickets called “Celebration,” and promotions offering gift cards players could win and even events through the state, according to Illinois Lottery.

This year, 117 million winning tickets were sold, including 75 people who won $1 million or more and an online player won $552 million in June.

Illinois Lottery even introduced a $50 scratch-off ticket which gave their instant tickets a boost when most places saw a decline in instant ticket sales, according to them.

For more information, click here.

WMBD-TV can be reached at [email protected].

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