Every year, as Christmas approaches, Spain is swept up in true lottery fever. Nearly two-thirds of the country’s adult population purchase those coveted tickets with bated breath, hoping for a miracle. For many, it’s less about blind luck and more about upholding an unbreakable tradition—a way to share the magic of the season with loved ones by exchanging tenths of a ticket. Still, why not give fortune a little nudge in your direction? If you, too, have decided to embrace the magic and superstitions, here are some of the most popular rituals believed to boost your chances of winning big.
Faith and Numerology
When it comes to attracting money, many Spaniards turn to Saint Pancras. There’s even a special prayer designed specifically to ask for a lottery win. The faithful appeal to the glorious martyr for his intercession, to help them draw luck and prosperity, and to bless their families with improved finances. For the greatest effect, the image of the saint should be given as a gift by someone else, and the prayer is said to be most powerful on May 12, the feast day of Saint Pancras.
Another popular method is to play your favorite number. This can be any digit with personal significance: a wedding date, your child’s birthday, or another memorable moment. Supporters of this approach believe that an emotional connection gives the number a special power. Mathematically, all tickets have absolutely equal odds, but belief in ‘your’ number adds special meaning to the experience. Some take it further, combining numerology with a bit of spice magic. For example, they write the ‘sacred code of wealth’ 71226 on a piece of paper, add a cinnamon stick, tie everything with a red thread with three knots, and place it under their pillow at night to ‘activate’ it.
Proven folk superstitions
If you’re wondering what to do with your ticket to attract good luck, folk wisdom offers a few amusing suggestions. One of the best-known is to rub your lottery ticket on a pregnant woman’s belly or a bald man’s head. It’s unclear where this belief originated, but many Spaniards swear by it. The idea is that the ticket receives the energy of fertility or wisdom. There are even more exotic, and slightly spooky, versions such as rubbing your ticket on a hunchback’s back. Just don’t forget to ask for permission!
The magic of fire, water, and spices
Candles are an essential part of many luck-attracting rituals. To draw in financial abundance, it is recommended to light a candle of a specific color next to your lottery ticket. Just be sure to keep it at a safe distance to avoid any accidents. Green candles symbolize prosperity and financial growth, while gold or yellow candles are associated with wealth and abundance. Lighting these candles on the day of the draw or the night before helps create a positive atmosphere for winning. You can accompany the process with a prayer or a positive affirmation.
Cinnamon is also considered a powerful ally in the pursuit of millions. It is said that making a cross from cinnamon sticks and placing it next to your ticket can help. This spice has long been used in rituals to attract positive energy. After this ritual, it is advised to drink a glass of water with three teaspoons of ground cinnamon while focusing on your desired prize. Another method is purifying the space with salt water. A solution of sea salt has historically been used to ward off negativity. Sprinkle this mixture throughout your home, especially on doors and windows, then place your ticket in a visible spot and declare aloud: “Let luck be with me, and may fortune smile upon me.”
The power of thought and a positive mindset
Perhaps the most powerful lucky charm for winning the lottery is our own mind. It all comes down to the power of positive visualization. This effective mental technique involves creating a vivid and detailed image of yourself already achieving your goal. Take the time to focus on imagining, in full color, how you receive the news of your win, what emotions you feel, and how you will wisely manage your money. By visualizing yourself as a winner, you strengthen your inner belief in success, attracting positive energy to help you reach your goal.
By the way, the Spanish Christmas Lottery (Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad) is one of the oldest and largest in the world. Established back in 1812, it has been held annually on December 22 ever since. The main prize is known as “El Gordo,” which translates to “The Fat One.” What makes this lottery unique is its structure: instead of a single giant jackpot, there are hundreds of smaller prizes. This approach was designed so that as many people as possible could share in the winnings. That’s why in Spain, it’s common to buy tickets together with family, friends, or colleagues. The drawing is broadcast live nationwide and is a true national event that marks the start of the Christmas season. As tradition goes, the winning numbers are sung by students from the San Ildefonso boarding school in Madrid, adding a special touch of emotion and authenticity.
