History of the Christmas Lottery
The Christmas Lottery is an annual event that arouses great excitement and anticipation in Spain and many parts of the world. With over two centuries of existence, this lottery draw has become a deep-rooted tradition in the country's Christmas culture. In this article, you will learn about the history of the Christmas Lottery, from its beginnings to its growth as one of the most awaited and exciting draws of the year. Keep reading!
The beginnings of the Christmas Lottery
The origin of the Christmas Lottery dates back to 1812, during the reign of Charles III of Spain. It was José I Bonaparte, Napoleon's brother, who established the lottery system in the country as a source of income for the State. However, it was during the government of Ciriaco González Carvajal, Minister of the Interior, that the first Christmas draw as we know it today was established.
On December 18, 1812, the first draw of the Christmas Lottery took place in the city of Cádiz, a city that has historically been an important commercial and maritime center in Spain. In its early days, the lottery had a charitable focus, and the funds raised were destined for hospitals and asylums, in an attempt to improve the situation of the most needy.
The first Christmas Lottery draw consisted of 42,000 tickets, divided into 42 series, and each ticket sold for 40 reales. Although compared to today the magnitude of the draw was modest, it quickly gained popularity among the population, becoming an eagerly anticipated annual tradition.
During its first decades, the Christmas draw did not have a fixed venue and was held in different Spanish cities. It wasn't until 1839 that Madrid was established as the permanent venue for the event, a decision that contributed to its consolidation and growth.
Evolution and traditions of the Christmas Lottery
Over the years, the Christmas Lottery experienced significant growth. In 1892, the government decided to increase the number of tickets to 100,000 and in 1938 the issuance of "decimos" was introduced, a fraction of a ticket that allowed more people to participate in the draw.
One of the most beloved traditions of the Christmas Lottery is the famous "El Gordo" (The Fat One). Since 1892, the first prize of the draw is known as "El Gordo" and has awarded substantial prizes to the lucky winners. "El Gordo" is the most awaited and desired prize by all, as it is usually a considerable amount that changes the lives of the winners.
Another endearing tradition is the draw itself. Every December 22, anticipation takes over all of Spain. The draw takes place at the Teatro Real in Madrid and is broadcast live on television and radio. The children of San Ildefonso, a school in Madrid, are in charge of singing the numbers and prizes, adding a charming and emotional touch to the event.
Social impact and curiosities
The Christmas Lottery has not only left a mark on Spain's Christmas tradition but has also had a significant social impact. Part of the funds raised in the draw go to charitable causes and social works, which has allowed financing projects and programs in various fields, such as education, health, and social assistance.
Additionally, the Christmas Lottery has generated curiosities and anecdotes throughout its history. For example, in 1936, during the Spanish Civil War, the draw was temporarily suspended and moved to Valencia for security reasons. Also, on several occasions, the "El Gordo" number has coincided with symbolic dates or numbers, generating even more interest and excitement in the draw.