To celebrate the annual return of the synchronous fireflies to Congaree National Park, Soda Citizens are invited to the Vista on Fri., May 20 + Sat., May 21 to become fireflies themselves. Each evening from 5-10 p.m., visitors to The Vista can pick up a flashing light at a participating business and transform into a firefly as they shop and dine.
Every year, Congaree National Park hosts a firefly viewing event for ~two weeks between mid-May and mid-June, when this natural phenomenon occurs. The awe-inspiring display of synchronous flashing happens as fireflies search for a mate.
Fun fact: Although there are 2,000+ species of fireflies world-wide, there are only three species of synchronous flashing fireflies that can be found in North America. The viewing event has become so popular in recent years that visitors now can only see it if they are selected from a lottery. Unfortunately, the 2022 lottery closed on April 6. Mark your calendar for next March when the 2023 lottery opens.
Interested in becoming a firefly for an evening? See the list of participating Vista businesses.*
