It is previously known by the reader that all the villagers in town are gathering together for the traditional lottery which is celebrated every June 27. However, due to the small population in the town (only 300 people), there is an expectation for Tessie's arrival at the event, due to the fact that every resident is expected to participate. This is known when the person responsible for leading the event asks if there is anyone missing and she gets the immediate response that an individual named Dunbar is not there.
