Curiosities and myths about Mexico’s National Lottery

Mexico’s National Lottery is not just a game of chance, it is a cultural icon and a tradition deeply rooted in the country’s culture. Throughout the years, Mexicans have been exposed to its symbolism since their earliest childhood.

All kinds of stories, beliefs and superstitions have been generated and are still alive among the players. Today we bring you some of the most surprising curiosities and the most popular myths surrounding this iconic lottery, in which its drawings express the natural and social elements that surround them.

1. The charitable origin of the National Lottery

Although many associate it only with millionaire prizes, the National Lottery for Public Assistance also known as Lotenal.

It was created in colonial times by order of King Charles III of Spain, on August 7, 1770 with a social purpose to raise funds for charitable causes. To this day, part of the proceeds are used to support people in vulnerable situations in Mexico.

2. “Lucky” numbers… or cursed?

There are those who claim that certain numbers are more likely to be drawn because “it’s their turn”. There are even those who think that there may be a trick in the balls used for the draw, so that some may have more or less weight than others or that they may have some millimetric defect that makes it easier for them to come out.

Others, however, avoid specific numbers because they associate them with bad luck, such as the number 13. There are many theories about this, but perhaps the most striking is that this number is associated with the Tarot, since the card with the number 13 is the one that shows the figure of death.

Some even choose combinations based on special dates, such as birthdays or anniversaries, believing that they will attract fortune.Whichever formula you choose, we invite you to play

3. The superstition of folded bills

A common myth among veteran players is that folding a lottery ticket brings bad luck. Many believe that it blocks the positive energy that the ticket needs to be awarded. For that reason, some people keep it spread out, in special places, such as altars, under the mattress or between the pages of the Bible.

4. Rituals to attract fortune

In many Mexican homes, the day of the lottery is special. Some light candles, others pray or do limpias before buying the ticket. Some even rub the ticket with cinnamon, Chinese coins, the hand of Fatima, the golden fish or flowers to attract good luck and the most superstitious people believe in the red bean, do they work? We don’t know, but the important thing is to keep the faith… and play responsibly!

5. The myth of the “repeat winner”.

One of the best known urban legends is that of the player who won more than once in the National Lottery. Although there is no official proof, this story is told in several regions of the country: Serendipity, magic, statistics? Whatever the case, it has served to fuel the hopes of many faithful players.

Conclusion

Mexico’s National Lottery is much more than a lottery: it is a mixture of history, dreams, traditions and a bit of mysticism. The curiosities and myths that surround it are part of the popular folklore, and although they do not guarantee the jackpot, they do enrich the experience of playing.

Do you have any special superstition or ritual when you play? Tell us in the comments!