Spain's famous Christmas draw, El Gordo, shook up Leon this year, showering €3.26 billion in prizes—an increase from €3.18 billion in 2024—and delivering top awards to regions hit by wildfires earlier in 2025.
"After the terrible summer we've been through with the wildfires, which was horrible, I'm very emotional—it's overwhelming, I can hardly believe it," said Laura, a winner from Leon, in an interview with Cadena SER.
The draw took place on December 22 at Madrid's Teatro Real, where pupils from the San Ildefonso school pulled the winning numbers from two iconic globes—a festive ritual that has kicked off Spain's Christmas season for over two centuries.
Throngs of hopefuls queued for hours to enter the theatre, sporting Santa hats, regional costumes and lucky charms. The ceremony was briefly paused when protesters shouted pro-Palestinian slogans, but resumed without further incident.
In the weeks leading up to the draw, lottery fever grips the nation: families, friends and co-workers pool resources to buy full tickets or decimos—the most popular "10th" ticket priced at €23, which entitles holders to 10 percent of any prize their number wins. On average, Spaniards spend about €78 each on this festive tradition, according to Anapal, the vendors' association.
For many in Leon, the gift of El Gordo is more than cash—it's a reminder of community resilience and the promise of renewal after a tough summer.
Reference(s):
Spain's Christmas lottery prizes brings cheer to wildfire-hit Leon
cgtn.com
