The Virginia Lottery continues to grab attention with huge jackpots and life-changing opportunities. Whether you dream of instant riches or simply enjoy the thrill of the game, understanding how the lottery works can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of the Virginia Lottery, including recent winning numbers, how to play, rule changes, and tips for making your next play a success.
The Virginia Lottery is a state-run lottery offering a wide range of games, from instant scratch-offs to massive multi-state draws like Mega Millions and Powerball. Aiming not only to provide entertainment, the lottery also funds important programs throughout Virginia, making every ticket a chance to give back to the community.
Playing Mega Millions is simple. You pick five white ball numbers between 1 and 70, and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 24. While you can handpick your numbers, many players opt for a "Quick Pick" option, where the computer randomly selects numbers for you. Each ticket purchase now includes a built-in multiplier, giving you the chance to boost non-jackpot prizes up to 10 times—an update that adds more excitement to each draw.
For the most recent drawing on April 29, 2025, the winning numbers were 16, 33, 40, 51, 57, with the Mega Ball 10. No major jackpot hit, but one lucky Virginian won the $2 million "Match 5" prize. To see a full breakdown of the draw and find helpful details, read the USA TODAY Mega Millions results and updates.
Mega Millions recently introduced several updates: ticket prices increased to $5, and every ticket now includes a multiplier. Non-jackpot prizes now start at $10 and can reach as high as $10 million, thanks to the new prize structures. Your overall odds of winning a prize are now better, with improved chances across all prize tiers.
For more details on these changes and the biggest Mega Millions jackpots in history, check out the NorthJersey.com comprehensive Mega Millions breakdown.
You can buy Virginia Lottery tickets at authorized gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores statewide. Some airports may also sell tickets. While certain states allow for online ticket purchases through third-party apps, Virginia has specific regulations, so check the official Virginia Lottery website for secure options and deadlines.
Drawings for multi-state games like Mega Millions are held twice a week, typically on Tuesday and Friday evenings at 11 p.m. Don’t wait until the last minute, as deadlines for buying tickets may vary by location.
The Virginia Lottery inspires dreams and excitement across the state. Every play offers a moment of possibility, and with recent rule updates, there’s even more to look forward to. Remember to play responsibly, and review the most up-to-date results and jackpot news on trusted sources like USA TODAY’s Mega Millions coverage and NorthJersey.com.
Good luck, and may your ticket be the next big Virginia Lottery winner!