Synchronized Fireflies at Elkmont Back for Another Season

If you want to witness an incredible event in the Great Smoky Mountains, be sure to check out the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont. The Elkmont fireflies event in Gatlinburg brings thousands of visitors to the Smoky Mountains every year.

Elkmont in Gatlinburg, TN, is the only place in America with fireflies with synchronized light patterns. The only other place to see fireflies like the Elkmont fireflies is in Southeast Asia.

The light patterns are part of their mating process that lasts for about two weeks every year. This year, the Elkmont fireflies event will be held from June 6-13.

Be sure to plan ahead if you want to see the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont this year. Reservations are required in order to obtain a parking pass for the event.

Parking passes will be needed to gain access to the Sugarlands Visitor Center’s parking lot. From there a trolley shuttle service will take you to the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont viewing area.

For visitors wanting to bring flashlights, visitor center staff requests you point them toward the ground when walking to the viewing area. Also, in order to get the best view of the Elkmont fireflies, and to minimize brightness, it helps to cover your flashlight with red or blue cellophane

Visitors may want to bring a blanket, towel or small lawn chair to sit on while watching the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont. As well as, wear comfortable shoes in case the ground is wet, or you have to walk to get a good view of the show.

Guests to the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont are also encouraged to pack any refreshments or snacks in a small bag because there will not be any available for purchase at the viewing area.

The most important thing for visitors to remember when visiting the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont, please do not try to catch them. Like all wild animals in the Great Smoky Mountains, they are crucial to the habitat, and we want to make sure that the fireflies stay around for a show next year.

For more information on the synchronized fireflies at Elkmont, and other things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, check out Visit My Smokies’ Events Calendar. See you in the Smokies!