It’s that time of year again – time to watch the synchronized fireflies do their thing! I’m not talking about a trip to see the Columbia Fireflies baseball team.
Before there was a baseball team, these real-life fireflies were lighting up in hordes and droves – and whatever you call a bunch of bugs – at Congaree Swamp National Park. This type of synchronicity is rare and occurs only in a few locations throughout the Southeast, and I love that the Midlands is home to one of them.
Imagine the magic and wonder of those glimpses turned up a hundred – or even a thousand-fold. The boardwalk in front of you is really about all you can see, and you are surrounded on all sides but the quiet majesty of a cypress forest.
As the light in the forest dims, you spy a blinking in the distance. Then a few more.
Once the forest is completely enveloped in darkness, the real show begins and the dark is punctured by thousands of tiny lights – synchronized fireflies surround you, their individual beauty magnified to a sum that is both whimsical and glorious.
If I’m waxing a bit poetic, it’s because this is such an inspiring experience. Words cannot do it justice. Trust me, if you haven’t been, you need to go! And now is the time to reserve your tickets if you want to catch this amazing show!
Per their website, they are offering the public opportunities to view the park’s fireflies on May 16-22, 2024. Entry to the park will be limited to only 145 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.
Tickets will be available through recreation.gov and those interested in entering can subit their application on the Congaree Synchronized Fireflies lottery page. A vehicle pass obtained through the lottery will be required to enter the park on the evenings of the above dates.
The lottery is open now and will remain open until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10. The results will be announced on Tuesday, April 16.
A Couple of Tips Before You Go
What to Expect
All vehicles with valid entry passes will be provided with a low lumen red light flashlight to reduce the amount of ambient light in the viewing area and help protect the fireflies. Flashlight use while on the trails should be kept to a minimum. All flashlights should have a red-mode or the lens should be covered with red cellophane, which will be provided at the trail head for those who need it.
Have a plan for keeping up with your kids in the dark
In the dark, it can be incredibly challenging to maintain a visual on children (especially if you have more than one or two). If you have a child who likes to be carried or worn in a baby carrier, definitely bring your carrier and use it. If you have a backpack leash type thing for your independent toddler or preschooler, this is a great place to make use of it. Talk to your kids beforehand about how to find you if you become separated in the dark and what a park ranger looks like.
Pack water and late night snacks
We know the South Carolina heat doesn’t disappear with the sun. You may be out walking an hour or two, part of that likely past your kids’ normal bedtime. Come prepared with hydration and healthy snacks for a happier, albeit tired, crew.
Forget pictures.
Unless you have a camera that does well or has special settings for the dark, don’t worry about the pictures. Enjoy the moments and bask in the glow of the fireflies.
If you plan to check out Congaree Swamp any other time of year, check out my tips for a fun-filled family hike.
