HOLLYWOOD – Mega millions Fever has hit South Florida as locals vie for a chance at the fifth lottery.biggest jackpot in historyan incredible $1.2 billion.

At the Kwik Stop in Hollywood, hopeful gamblers flocked to get their chance at a life-changing payday.

“I’m trying to win this billion dollars,” said Bill Strachan, busily filling out his playing card.

The odds of hitting the jackpot are 1 in 302.6 million, but that hasn’t discouraged South Floridians.

Equipped with lucky numbers and dreams of luck, many take a small risk for the chance of winning big.

Florida is no stranger to lottery success. The Sunshine State ranks fifth in the nation with the most lottery winners, according to Mcluck, a company that tracks lottery data.

Andres Torres, another hopeful player, said he believes fate is on his side. “I know I will win. I have this strong feeling. I had this dream last night that I was going to win,” he said.

If a Florida player hits the jackpot, they can take home an estimated $516.1 million after taxes, with no state tax on winnings.

For many, the focus is on family and giving back.

“I will support all my grandchildren, send them all to college and just buy my children something. And help people,” Strachan said.

Karl Schneider shared similar aspirations, saying, “Well, spend it on the family. Take care of the whole family. Friends. You know, it’s a lot of money.”

Others dream of more pampering plans. Torres, for example, said: “First I help my family. And then I’ll buy a big old yacht and sail around the world.”

Despite the slim odds, the Mega Millions frenzy shows no signs of slowing in South Florida, where dreams of wealth and a better future drove ticket sales.