Hockey fans line up to buy tickets on the 50/50 Mega Jackpot at tonight’s Prince George Cougars playoff game. Photos 250News

Prince George, B.C. – Exhibition Park is a beehive of activity this afternoon as two Prince George hockey teams expect huge crowds for the opening games of their respective playoff series.

The Prince George Cougars take on the Portland Winter Hawks at 7 tonight in the opening game of their best-of-seven first-round Western Hockey League series.  And there’s plenty of action leading up to the game tonight.  Along with eager fans picking up their game tickets, Save-on Foods is hosting a barbecue in front of CN Centre, with the food donated and all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George.  The barbecue started at 12 noon and continues right up to game time at 7pm.

As well, the Cougars are holding their final 50/50 Mega Jackpot Night, with proceeds split between the winning ticket holder and Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Corporate sponsors of BBBS teamed up to get the pot started by purchasing $20,000 worth of tickets.

Those contributors are handing out $10 worth of 50/50 tickets to the first 2,000 adult fans at the barbecue.  And the 50/50 ticket wicket inside CN Centre is making brisk sales as well for those wanting to increase their chances of winning.

The Cariboo Cougars are facing the Greater Vancouver Canadians in the first game of their best-of-three BC Major Midget League championship final at Kin 1.  That game has a 3:15 pm start this afternoon, with game 2 at 3:15pm Saturday.  A third and deciding game, if needed, would be played at 9:45 Sunday morning.