Each year from late May to early June, thousands of lucky visitors gather near the Elkmont Campground to witness a fascinating light show from a firefly species called Photinus carolinus! They are one of only a couple species in North America that are known to synchronize their flashing light pattern, creating a rare phenomenon that is incredible to witness at night! Due to the popularity of this special event within the park, a lottery process is held to gain access. Here are the top 3 things to know about the Smoky Mountains Synchronous Fireflies Event:
1. What to Expect
The Smoky Mountains Synchronous Fireflies Event offers a rare opportunity to see the amazing synchronized light flash patterns of the Photinus carolinus! These flash patterns are part of their mating display, and each species has a characteristic pattern that helps male and female individuals recognize and find each other. The flash pattern of Photinus carolinus is a series of 5 to 8 flashes, followed by a pause of about 8 seconds, and then the pattern is repeated. Initially the flashing appears random, but the period of darkness is synchronized. As more males start joining in, the flashing begins to synchronize and entire sections of the forest soon begging pulsating with light!
2. Timing of the Display
The mating session of Photinus carolinus lasts for about 2 to 3 weeks each year, and the start date varies annually based on temperature and soil moisture. Since the dates were first recorded in 1993, the peak dates have occurred at various times from the third week of May to the third week in June. Once the season starts, a few fireflies start flashing and then more join as the days pass. After reaching a peak, the numbers gradually decline each day until the mating season is over. The firefly viewing dates are announced on the official website for Great Smoky Mountains National Park by late April, which is when the lottery opens for vehicle reservations.
3. Applying for the Lottery
Great Smoky Mountains National Park manages the synchronous firefly viewing areas by limiting vehicle access. Due to the high demand, visitors who wish to view the fireflies must acquire a vehicle reservation via lottery to park in these areas. A total of 960 vehicle reservations will be distributed for the eight-day event (120 per day). Once the firefly viewing dates have been announced, visit the Recreation.gov – Firefly event page to enter the lottery for vehicle reservations. Keep in mind that only one application per household will be accepted, and that you must enter the date that you want to attend as well as one alternate date.
We wish you the best of luck in your lottery application for the Smoky Mountains Synchronous Fireflies Event and hope that you get to enjoy this special opportunity! If you’re looking for some other unique activities to experience in the Smokies after sunset, check out these top 3 things to do in the Smoky Mountains at night!
