Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronous fireflies are a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon that can only be seen in a few locations around the world. Seeing them in Pigeon Forge is a unique and memorable experience that visitors are unlikely to forget.

Synchronous fireflies can be seen in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the months of May and June. During this time, thousands of fireflies come together in the forests and put on a beautiful light show.

The fireflies use their flashes to communicate with one another. When thousands of fireflies synchronize their flashes, it creates a stunning display of light that is truly breathtaking.

To see the synchronous fireflies in Pigeon Forge, visitors can participate in the Elkmont Firefly Viewing event, which is held annually in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During the event, visitors are guided to a designated area where they can observe the fireflies in their natural habitat.

In order to protect the synchronous fireflies and their habitat, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park uses a lottery system to distribute tickets for the Elkmont Firefly Viewing event.

The 2024 viewing dates are June 3rd - 10th.  The lottery opens at 10:00am on April 26th and closes at 11:59pm April 29th.  The application fee costs $1 and you can choose two preferred dates.

Even if you don't win the lottery, there are still other ways to see the synchronous fireflies, such as hiking to other areas in the park.  We have even seen fireflies while relaxing on our balconies and strolling around Dollywood.