When: Firefly viewing dates announced on April 26th; lottery opens on April 29th
Where: Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There are many unique species of animals that call the Great Smoky Mountains home, but the synchronous fireflies might be the most unique of all. The Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is world renowned for its magnificent display of this unique species of firefly. From late May to mid-June these fireflies can be seen nightly lighting up the dark hollows of the mountains.
What are synchronous fireflies?
The synchronous firefly (Photinus carolinus, or “lightning bug”) is very similar to many other species of fireflies that you might be familiar with across the world. It’s a small flying beetle with a section of its abdomen that serves as a bioluminescent “lantern.” The difference between these fireflies and others is the synchronous pattern of lighting that they display during their mating period.
The synchronization can be hard to describe to someone who hasn’t seen it. The fireflies will flash multiple times for a few moments then they will almost completely cease flashing for 6 to 8 seconds, leaving the surrounding area almost pitch black. After a brief ceasing, the fireflies will again flash multiple times until the next break. This unique display typically starts around 9:30 PM and will continue through the night.
The reasoning behind the synchronous display is still relatively unknown. However, most experts agree that it has something to do with the mating process of the fireflies. Typically, the male fireflies will fly around during their lighting display while the females remain stationary.
How does the Smoky Mountain Firefly Viewing Lottery work?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not the only place where this display of the synchronous firefly can be seen, but it is certainly one of the best. In recent years, the demand to witness the event has grown so great that the National Park Service uses a lottery system to award tickets so that everyone has an equal chance of getting a ticket. A total of 800 passes will be distributed for the eight-day event (100 per day).
The primary viewing areas to see the firefly display are Jakes Creek and Little River trails. The lucky lottery winners for the event will check in near the Elkmont Campground Kiosk on their specified date and be directed to their assigned parking spot.
Important Dates and Information for the 2022 Firefly Lottery
Each year, starting at the end of April, parking passes are sold online for the peak week of the firefly display. These tickets sell out almost instantly so if you plan on attending next year make sure and obtain all the information you will need.
- April 26, 2022: Firefly viewing dates will be announced
- April 29, 2022: Lottery for vehicle passes opens at 8am
- May 2, 2022: Lottery for vehicle passes closes at 8pm
- May 12, 2022: All lottery applicants will be notified
Learn more about the firefly lottery.
