BOISE, Idaho ÔÇô Idaho Lottery Director Jeff Anderson reminds all players who participate with the Idaho Lottery this weekend to do so responsibly.

"We're seeing a lot of excitement and a lot of enthusiasm right now for all of our games as the Christmas holiday approaches," said Anderson. "And with nearly $300 million in big jackpot prizes available, we are asking all of our players to be sure that when they do play, they play what they can afford and not go overboard."

The current jackpot for Mega Millions on Friday night is estimated at $173 million. The Christmas Eve jackpot for Powerball is estimated at $125 million. In addition to Powerball and Mega Millions, tickets for the annual holiday, Idaho-only, Idaho $1,000,000 Raffle game are selling briskly. Sales for the Idaho $1,000,000 Raffle have increased by over 50% when compared to the same period last week. Idaho Lottery holiday-themed Scratch GamesTM have increased 21% over the same period of time.

"Usually, as the gift giving season draws to a close, we do see an increase in play from players that purchase Scratch Games and Raffle tickets to give as gifts or stocking stuffers," added Anderson. "We are reminding players to enjoy the fun and excitement, but to definitely play within their means."

During this time of year, the Idaho Lottery also reminds everyone they must be eighteen years of age to play the Lottery. The Idaho Lottery Offices in Boise will be closed on Monday, December 26, 2011 in observance of the Christmas holiday. Players wanting to validate large prize winning tickets they receive as gifts this weekend will have to wait until Tuesday, December 27, 2011 when Lottery offices open for regular business hours at 8 a.m.

# # #