Smokies announces dates for synchronous firefly viewing
by: Hope McAlee
Posted: Apr 21, 2026 / 12:27 PM EDT
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — Synchronous firefly season is approaching and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced the dates for its annual viewing event and when guests can sign up for a chance to see the fireflies.
From May 20-27, the GSMNP will be hosting its annual synchronous firefly viewing event at Elkmont.
To take part in this event, visitors will be selected for vehicle registration from a lottery that will open at 10 a.m. on April 24 and end at 11:59 p.m. on April 27. There is a $1 fee for entry in the lottery. Guests can enter the lottery by visiting recreation.gov.
Lottery applicants will be notified of their status by email by May 6. Selected applicants will automatically receive a reservation, and a $29 reservation fee will be charged to the same card that was used for the lottery application. This fee covers the reservation, portable restrooms, supplies and staffing.
Each reservation admits one vehicle with up to seven people inside.
In late May or early June of every year, hundreds of visitors gather in the national park to watch the Photinus carolinus, a firefly species known for its synchronous flashing. During the eight days of predicted peak firefly activity, the park limits access to the Elkmont area to ease traffic, keep visitors safe, and protect the fireflies during their mating season.
The species lives for one to two years, with most of its life being spent in the larval stage. Synchronous fireflies only live for three to four weeks as adults.
What are Synchronous Fireflies?
The GSMNP said reservations will not be refundable or transferable. Only one lottery application is allowed per household per season, and reservations will only be valid for the date they are issued for.
During the viewing period, access is restricted to vehicles with reservations and registered campers in Elkmont Campground. Overnight parking at Little River Trailhead, Jakes Creek Trailhead or the Appalachian Clubhouse will not be allowed during the event.