The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will hold its annual synchronous firefly viewing event at the Elkmont area from May 20 through May 27, 2026. During this eight-day period of peak activity for the Photinus carolinus fireflies, which are known for their unique synchronous flashing during mating season, the park limits vehicle access to manage traffic, ensure visitor safety, and protect the fireflies.

A lottery for vehicle reservations has opened today and closes at 11:59 p.m. on April 27. Interested visitors can enter the lottery for a $1 fee through recreation.gov. Participants may select two preferred viewing dates, and the park will issue 120 reservations per night, for a total of 960 reservations across the event. Each reservation admits one vehicle with up to seven occupants.

Applicants will be notified of their lottery results by email no later than May 6. Those selected will automatically receive a reservation and be charged a $29 fee (using the same card as the lottery entry), which covers the reservation, portable restrooms, supplies, and staffing. Reservations are non-refundable and non-transferable, and each household is limited to one application per season.

During the event, access to the Elkmont area is restricted after noon to only vehicles with valid reservations and registered campers at the Elkmont Campground. Overnight parking is not permitted at the Little River Trailhead, Jakes Creek Trailhead, or the Appalachian Clubhouse.