CHICAGO - Excitement filled the air as two Illinois Lottery players experienced a Christmas they will never forget after winning $1 million each on a brand-new $50 scratch-off game. The life-changing tickets were purchased at Oak Park Gas Mart in Oak Park and at a Speedway in Lockport, according to the Illinois Lottery.

The new instant ticket game, called "$10 million," offers players the thrilling opportunity to win a whopping $10 million. However, even without hitting the jackpot, there are still plenty of smaller prizes to be won. With odds of 1 in 551,042, only a select few, fifteen players in total, will be fortunate enough to claim one of the million-dollar prizes.

The Illinois Lottery provides winners with two options for receiving their substantial windfall. Winners can choose between a one-time cash payment of $600,000 or an annual payment of $50,000 for 20 years. This flexibility allows winners to decide how they would like to receive their life-changing prize.

While the names of the million-dollar winners have not been disclosed, lottery officials released details of their victories on Sunday. The lucky players have a year from the winning date to claim their prizes. To ensure the security of their winning tickets, players are advised to write their names on the back and keep them in a safe place until they are ready to claim their well-deserved rewards.

The Illinois Lottery has continuously brought joy and excitement to players across the state, with stories of life-changing wins and colossal jackpots. The $10 million scratch-off game has added to this legacy by creating opportunities for lucky individuals to fulfill their dreams of financial security and a brighter future.

As the winners of these million-dollar prizes bask in their holiday luck, millions of Illinois Lottery players eagerly await their own chance at striking it rich. With the allure of life-altering winnings, the Illinois Lottery continues to captivate the imagination and dreams of players from all walks of life.