How to Play Lotería
The traditional Mexican game of chance that brings families together. Think of it like Bingo, but with colorful images instead of numbers.
The Basics
Lotería is played with a deck of 54 cards and a set of boards called tablas. Each tabla has a 4x4 grid of 16 random images.
The Cantor (Caller)
One person is designated as the caller. They hold the deck of cards and draw one at a time.
The Players
Each player selects a tabla. You'll need markers (fichas, tokens, coins, or rocks) to mark your spots.
Step-by-Step Rules
Start the Game
Every player chooses a tabla. The Cantor shuffles the deck of 54 cards. Everyone should have their pile of fichas (tokens) or markers ready.
The Call
The Cantor draws a card and announces it. In traditional games, the Cantor often recites a riddle or poem before saying the name.
Example for "El Gallo": "El que le cantó a San Pedro, no le volverá a cantar."
Mark Your Board
If the announced image appears on your tabla, place a ficha (token) on it. If you have the image twice (on custom boards), mark both!
Win the Game
The first player to complete the agreed-upon pattern shouts "¡Lotería!" or "¡Buenas!" to win. The Cantor then checks the winner's board against the drawn cards to verify the win.
Winning Patterns
Unlike Bingo which is usually just lines or blackout, Lotería has many ways to win. Decide on the winning pattern before the game starts!