Playing the lottery isn't a regular occurrence for many Floridians, but when the jackpots climbs well past the $500 million mark, participation generally takes a sharp uptick.

  • Next Mega Millions drawing is set for 11 p.m. Friday (July 8)
  • Chances to win are 1 in 259 million
  • Jackpot is the third largest in the game's history

Troy Jenkins, who picked up a ticket or two on Friday morning in St. Petersburg, said there isn't much chance he'd be showing up for work Monday morning if he won Friday's $540 million jackpot.

"I'd start a couple of companies, buy a couple of houses and enjoy life," Jenkins said.

The chance of winning is roughly 1 in 259 million, according to Florida Lottery.

"That's way too much money for anybody," said Dave Ramnarine, another St. Petersburg shopper. "I could live 500 years off of that. That's way too much."

Despite his protests, the enormity of the sum didn't deter him any.

"You've got to play to win, right?" Ramnarine said.

The Mega Millions jackpot started at $15 million in March and will keep rolling over until someone hits the jackpot.

There are more winners than just the jackpot, too. Prizes range from $1 to $5 million. Ticket sales stop at 10 p.m.

The Florida Lottery advises you to sign the back of your tickets when you buy them and keep them in a safe place just in case.