Lotto 6/49 (Canada)
For the German Lotto 6/49, click here.
Established in June 1982, Lotto 6/49 is one of Canada’s most popular lottery games and was the first national lottery in Canada to allow players to pick their own numbers. It underwent a major transformation in September 2013 and a number of new features were introduced, such as a guaranteed CA$1 million prize for one ticket holder in each draw, jackpots starting at a guaranteed CA$5 million and a new Free Play prize for players who match two of six numbers. Draws for Lotto 6/49 take place every Wednesday and Saturday evening and are administered by the Interprovincial Lottery Corporation, an alliance of regional and provincial lottery operators based throughout Canada.
There are now two parts to Lotto 6/49, following changes that were made to the game in September 2022. The Classic Draw always has a fixed jackpot of CA$5 million, but there is also another chance to win with the Gold Ball Jackpot. This extra draw guarantees that someone will always become a millionaire, while the top prize could even reach more than CA$60 million. Go to the Gold Ball Jackpot page to learn more.
How to Play Lotto 6/49
Playing Lotto 6/49 is easy - simply pay CA$3 per ticket and choose six numbers from 1 to 49. To win the top prize, a player must match all six numbers drawn. There is also an additional bonus number drawn on the night which can net players certain non-jackpot prizes. The second-tier prize is won if a player manages to successfully match five numbers and the bonus number, with the prize amount usually worth between CA$100,000 and CA$500,000. There are several tiers of additional prizes awarded to players who match between two main numbers and five main numbers.
A ticket for the Classic Draw automatically gives you entry into the Gold Ball Jackpot game.
Lotto 6/49 Draw Schedule
Draws for Lotto 6/49 take place every Wednesday and Saturday and players are able to purchase tickets up to 26 weeks in advance - adding up to a whopping 52 draws. Tickets are sold until 21.00 EST on draw nights, with the draw usually taking place around 9:10pm.
Buying Lotto 6/49 Tickets
Players in Canada can purchase Lotto 6/49 tickets online and from authorised retailers within the country. If you do not live in Canada but still want to take part in the game, you can buy Lotto 6/49 tickets through a dedicated online concierge service.
It’s important to remember that you’ll need to redeem any Lotto 6/49 prizes you win in the same province where you purchased the ticket. For example, if you buy a ticket in Ontario and win a prize, you’ll need to get in touch with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) to claim your winnings. If you bought Lotto 6/49 tickets through a concierge service, you’ll need to get in touch with them to learn more about claiming a prize.