Synchronous Fireflies at Congaree

Synchronous Fireflies light up the forest at dusk. (NPS Photo)

Updated on March 10, 2024

Synchronous Fireflies Viewing Event

With 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 popular. Below you will find information about this year's event, the lottery, park access during the synchronization period, and important guidelines for those coming to see these flashy fliers light up the night. If you have questions about this year's event, please feel free to reach out to us by email.

2024 Firefly Viewing Event Dates & Information

The 2024 Synchronous Fireflies Viewing Event will take place May 16-25. Passes will be required to enter the park on event nights and will be awarded through a lottery system hosted through Recreation.gov.

Firefly Viewing Event Lottery Information

In order to protect critical firefly habitat and provide optimum visitor experience, tickets are required to enter the park during this event. This year’s pass lottery will begin at 10:00 a.m. EDT Thursday, April 4, and will remain open for one week, ending at 10:00 a.m. EDT Wednesday, April 10. Entries must be made through the online lottery page at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300008 and are limited to one per household.

All lottery applicants will be charged a $1 non-refundable service fee upon entering the lottery. Applicants who are awarded passes will be charged the remaining $24 event fee to secure their pass, for a total cost of $25. A total of 145 passes will be available for each event night. All applicants will be notified on Tuesday, April 16 whether they have or have not been awarded a pass.

Passes will admit one passenger vehicle with up to 2 axles that can fit in a standard parking space. During the event, vehicles such as RVs, vehicles with trailers, large passenger vans, buses or mini-buses, will not be admitted. Vehicles may have a maximum of 8 passengers. Passes may only be used one time, are only valid for the date listed. Passes are non-transferable. Gates on event nights will open for those with valid event passes beginning at 7:00 and close to entry at 8:30.

PLEASE NOTE: All questions or technical assistance requests concerning the lottery should be directed to Recreation.gov (877-444-6777), as the park does not manage the lottery system.

Park Closures During Firefly Synchronization

To best protect critical firefly habitat and allow park staff and volunteers to prepare for the event, certain areas of the park will be closed to all visitors daily at 4:30 p.m. daily May 16-25. During this period the following areas will be closed:

• The Harry Hampton Visitor Center, boardwalk, and frontcountry hiking trails.
• Bannister Bridge Canoe Launch.
• Cedar Creek between Bannister Bridge and South Cedar Creek Canoe Launch.
• Longleaf and Bluff Campgrounds

Additionally, no backcountry camping permits will be issued during the period of the viewing event.

Basic Fireflies Event Etiquette and Information

Because 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:

• Keep flashlight use to a minimum, and only use lights that have a red-mode or have a red filter.
• Keep all flashlights, when in use, pointed at the ground.
• Cell phones may not be used in the viewing area for either a light source or taking photos/video.
• All visitors should stay on the designated Firefly Trail.
• Catching or disturbing fireflies is not permitted at Congaree National Park.
• No insect repellent can be applied after arrival at the park. Please apply prior to arrival.
• Viewing the fireflies is best just after dark, usually between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
• Thunderstorms often occur during this time, so be prepared for the weather. Rain can slow down or stop firefly activity for the evening.