Enter the Lottery Now: Local Chance to Witness Synchronous Fireflies at Elkmont, June 3-10

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has set the dates for the 2024 synchronous firefly event at Elkmont from June 3 to June 10. This event attracts many visitors who come to see the Photinus carolinus fireflies flash in unison during their mating season. To control the number of attendees and protect the environment, the park uses a lottery system for vehicle reservations.

Applications for the lottery open on April 26 at 10 a.m. EDT and close on April 29 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Interested individuals must apply at www.recreation.gov. The lottery will allocate 1120 vehicle reservations, with 140 available each night.

Lottery results will be released by May 6. Each winning reservation permits one vehicle, carrying up to seven people, to enter the viewing area. The park limits applications to one per household each season, and applicants will receive notifications by email.

The reservation fee is $24.00, which includes the cost of event management such as portable restrooms and staff. An additional $1.00 application fee is required. Note that reservations are non-refundable, non-transferable, and valid only for the designated date.

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