Lotteries are a popular form of entertainment and gambling. In addition to offering prizes such as cash and goods, many have a charitable component that raises funds for social causes and other community projects. Many state governments regulate the operation of lottery games, and some use proceeds to fund public schools. In the United States, large prizes can only be won by purchasing a ticket, and winners must come forward to claim their prize. Some states also prohibit players from remaining anonymous, while others permit them to do so for a small fee.

The first lotteries were organized in medieval Europe, and they became widespread in the early modern era. They were originally designed as a way to raise money for churches or other charitable institutions, but they became popular among the general population in the 18th century and grew into a massive industry that involves billions of dollars each year worldwide. In the United States, the largest lotteries are run by state governments, and the prize amounts can reach tens of millions of dollars.

In Australia, the lotteries are operated by Tatts Group under government license in each State or Territory. A number of private sector re-sellers are also licensed to sell Australian lottery products online. Lottery products are distributed in New Zealand through an autonomous Crown entity, Lotto New Zealand, and profits are distributed through the Lottery Grants Board to community organizations.

There are four nationwide lotteries in Canada: Lotto 6/49, Lotto Max (which replaced Lotto Super 7 in September 2009), Daily Grand, and Millionaire Life. Each of these is operated by the provincial or territorial governments: Atlantic Lottery Corporation (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador), Loto-Quebec (Quebec), Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (Ontario), and Western Canada Lottery Corporation (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut).

Gambling in Laos is illegal except in Special Economic Zones. However, several online casinos accept players from Laos and offer many popular casino games. The best rated of these sites are listed below.