Illinois Lottery Turns Up the Heat With Hotwins, New Game With Draws Every Four Minutes
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Fast-paced gameplay and social fun has rolled out at neighborhood spots statewide
CHICAGO (February 24, 2026) – The chill of an Illinois winter is no match for the Illinois Lottery’s newest game - HotWins® which is bringing high-energy play and frequent drawings to players looking for a faster, more social lottery experience.
Breaking from traditional daily or weekly drawings, HotWins delivers a draw every four minutes—giving players frequent opportunities to play and win throughout the day.
“HotWins represents the next evolution of lottery entertainment,” said Harold Mays, Director of the Illinois Lottery. “It’s designed to be social and to meet players where they already gather—whether that’s a neighborhood bar, restaurant, or local convenience store—offering more chances to play and win, more often.”
The game is now available at approximately 7,000 Illinois Lottery retailers across the state, including an expanding number of bars and restaurants. Traditionally, lottery in Illinois has been sold at gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, but you may now find it in your local pub or family restaurant.
“HotWins adds a new option for entertainment in these familiar settings,” Mays added. “Players can grab a ticket, watch the draw, and see results in just minutes.”
Warming Up Illinois Communities
To celebrate the launch, the Illinois Lottery is hosting events across the state at both traditional lottery locations and new bar and restaurant locations. These events will educate Illinois residents on how to play, feature free giveaways, and offer chances to win additional prizes. For a schedule of upcoming events, visit IllinoisLottery.com/useful-information/event.
“We’re introducing a new category of lottery entertainment for Illinois that brings people together,” said Mays. “Whether you’re a longtime player or trying the Lottery for the first time, HotWins offers an exciting new way to play.”
How to Get Fired Up
To play HotWins, players select 1–10 numbers from 1 through 80 for a chance to win a prize. Wagers start at $1, with options to increase stakes for higher potential payouts. The $10 ‘HOT’ wager option offers a top prize of up to $1 million.
Draw results are displayed live on in-store screens and terminals, creating an interactive and social experience—perfect for a night out with friends.
For more information about HotWins, including how to play and where to find a retailer, visit illinoislottery.com/useful-information/hotwins.
About the Illinois Lottery
The Illinois Lottery, founded in 1974, has contributed over $25 billion to the State’s Common School Fund in support of K-12 public education in Illinois since 1985. The Common School Fund is the Illinois Lottery’s primary beneficiary, receiving nearly 99% of Illinois Lottery proceeds. The Illinois Lottery also supports various specialty causes as described in the Illinois Lottery Law (20 ILCS 1605/21.4). For more information about the Illinois Lottery and the causes we support, please visit IllinoisLottery.com.
