One of North Carolina’s most popular summer nature events has become so competitive that visitors now need to win a lottery just to buy tickets.
Grandfather Mountain announced its annual “Grandfather Glows” firefly viewing event will again use a lottery system for 2026 because of growing demand.
The event is often compared to the famous synchronous firefly displays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and features rare glowing insects that appear for only a few weeks each year.
The lottery opens May 22 and closes May 28. Entries cost $5 plus tax and are limited to one per email address.
Event dates will be announced May 21 and will take place between mid-June and mid-July.
Researchers have confirmed 10 luminous insect species on the mountain, including synchronous fireflies, blue ghost fireflies, and glowworms.
Lottery winners can purchase up to six tickets. Adult tickets cost $50, while children’s tickets cost $40.
Each event runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. and includes educational programs before guests move into designated viewing areas.
Organizers say the event is wheelchair accessible. Flash photography, pets, and alcohol are prohibited.
The first group of winners will be notified May 29, with a second round announced June 3.
