About this place

Congaree National Park is home to a number of different species of fireflies, but it is the synchronized fireflies that lure thousands of people to the park each spring. These fireflies are one of only a few species around the world that synchronize their flash patterns in a majestic ritual that heralds the coming of summer. This late springtime display is part of their annual mating ritual that takes place for approximately two weeks, typically beginning around mid-May, along the edge of the Congaree floodplain. During the evenings of May 20, 21, 22 & 27, 28, 29, entry to the park will be limited to only 120 vehicles displaying a valid event pass. Event passes will be distributed via lottery in order to provide an equitable opportunity for all interested visitors in this limited, yet high-demand event. During the event, the park entrance gates will close to entry at 4:00 PM. Day-use visitors will exit the park by this time. Access to the firefly viewing area will open to ticket holders at 6:30 PM. During non-event days the frontcountry areas of the park (including the entrance road and visitor center) will be closed to the public after 4:00 PM. Please visit the park’s Fireflies webpage for additional information about this event. • Lottery Opens: March 31, 2022, 10:00 AM EDT • Lottery Closes: April 6, 2022, 10:00 AM EDT • Results Announced: April 14, 2022 • Event Dates: May 20-22 & 27-29, 2022