The lottery for the 2025 Synchronous Firefly Viewing Event at Congaree National Park is now open. Enter by 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, for a chance to witness thousands of fireflies blink in harmony during peak mating season — a natural light show unlike any other.
Applicants pay a $1 non-refundable fee to enter, with only one entry allowed per household. Winners will be contacted via email on Wednesday, April 16, and will be charged the remaining $19 vehicle pass fee.
This year’s viewing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, through Wednesday, May 21. If selected, your pass gets you access to one evening of this annual phenomenon, which draws visitors from across the country to the old-growth forest just outside Columbia.
May the odds be in your glowing favor.