![]() 2023 Synchronous Fireflies Viewing EventWith over 2,000 species found world-wide, there are only three species of synchronous fireflies that can be found in North America. Every year, Congaree National Park hosts synchronous fireflies for approximately two weeks between mid-May and mid-June. During this time visitors can experience an awe-inspiring display of synchronous flashing while the fireflies search for a mate. This special and unique phenomenon is extremely popluar. Below you will information about this years event, the lottery, park access during the synchronization period, and important guidelines for those coming to see these flashy fliers light up the night. 2023 Firefly Viewing Event Dates & InformationThe 2023 Synchronous Fireflies Viewing Event will take place on May 13-16 and May 19-24. Passes will be required to enter the park on event nights and will be available through a lottery hosted on recreation.gov. This year's event will feature some modifications compared to previous years. The goal of these changes is to enhance visitor access and opportunities for viewing the synchronous fireflies and further improve the long-term sustainability of this annual event. These modifications will include:
2023 Firefly Viewing Event Lottery InformationIn order to protect critical firefly habitat and provide optimum visitor experience, tickets are required to enter the park during for this event. There will be 130 vehicle passes availalbe for for each evening of the event. Vehicle passes for this event will be distributed by lottery hosted at www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300008. Lottery entries can be made only during dates listed below and will not be accepted prior to the lottery opening or after it has closed. Applications are limited to one per household. Issued passes are non-transferable and only valid for the date issued. All applicants are charged a non-refundable $1 service fee upon lottery entry. Those applicants selected to receive a pass will be charged the remaining event fee of $24 in order to secure their event pass. All applicants will be notified whether successful or unsuccessful. The dates for this year's event lottery are:
Park Closures During Firefly SynchronizationDuring the period when the fireflies are synchronized, the following closures will be in effect:
Basic Fireflies Event Etiquetted and InformationBecause these fireflies need specific habitat and conditions in order to synchronize, Congaree is one of only a few places where these conditions are present, and that visitors can experience this natural wonder. In order to provide you and fellow visitors with the best experience and to ensure there are fireflies for the future, please remember the following:
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Last updated: March 24, 2023