Mega Millions, Powerball Combined Jackpots Close In On $700M

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Lottery Commission's two biggest games are reaching large jackpots just before Christmas.

The Christmas Day Mega Millions jackpot is expected to reach $352 million while Saturday's Powerball jackpot should be close to $341 million. One-time cash payouts for both games will be in the $263 to $270 million range before taxes. Both payouts are estimates.

Did you like this story? Invite a friend to subscribe to Patch!

"We know this is the season for giving but we are also hoping it is the season for winning — at least here in New Hampshire," Charlie McIntyre, the executive director of the New Hampshire Lottery, said. "We have seen the anticipation building with our players and retailers over the past few weeks as the Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots have continued to grow, now with almost $700 million combined up for grabs. We cannot think of a better way to celebrate the holiday season than with two lucky New Hampshire winners. There is still plenty of time to get your tickets for these two drawings."

Both games have been growing in size since September with 28 different drawings without winners.

There are more than 1,400 retailers in New Hampshire or tickets can also be purchased online.

Got a news tip? Send it to tony.schinella@patch.com. View videos on Tony Schinella's YouTube.com channel or Rumble.com channel.