Discover Life in America

Conservation on Tap
2023-07-12 19:00 (America/New_York) | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Save the Little River!

Conservation on Tap

Wednesday, July 12, 7:00 p.m.

Albright Grove Brewing Company, Knoxville

FREE!

Dr. Andrew Gunnoe, associate professor of sociology at Maryville College and president of the of the Little River Watershed Association, will be speaking about the LRWA’s mission to protect, preserve, and enhance the Little River and its tributaries. Come learn about this amazing river and how you too can become part of the community of people working on its behalf. Proceeds benefit Discover Life in America and LRWA!

Litter River Watershed Association’s mission is to protect, preserve and enhance the Little River and its tributaries through CONSERVATION EDUCATION & RECREATION

Conservation on Tap
2023-08-09 19:00 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on Tap: Great Smoky Mountains National ParkWednesday, August 9th at 7pm at Albright Grove Brewing Co. in Knoxville, TN

Ranger and Management Analyst Kendra Straub will brief us on Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s new parking pass system and what revenue it is generating. She’ll also fill us in on trends in park visitation and unveil some findings from the hot-off-the-press visitor use survey. Kendra has been on the front lines over the last several years using research and data to reconcile the park’s surge in visitation with shrinking available funds. If you care about America’s most-visited national park, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Conservation on Tap is a monthly speaker series held the second Wednesday of each month at Albright Grove Brewing Co. All beer sales, at the event, benefit Discover Life in America.

Event is free!

Conservation on Tap
2023-11-08 19:00 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on Tap

Wednesday, November 8, 7:00 p.m.

Albright Grove Brewing Company, Knoxville

FREE!

If you’ve wondered what actually happens when Congress fails to pass a budget and America’s most popular national park must potentially close, check out this first-of-a-kind panel discussion on the catastrophic impacts to the park, park visitors, park partners, and park neighbors. The talk will feature the executive directors from Discover Life in America, Friends of the Smokies, Great Smoky Mountains Association, and other park partners. Will the park be locking the gates right before the super busy Thanksgiving holiday? Join in and discover some answers.

Proceeds benefit Discover Life in America.

Great Smokies Eco-Adventure: April 21-23
2024-04-21 12:00 - 2024-04-23 16:00
Mark your calendar for an immersive Smokies experience like none other! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA and partner A Walk in the Woods bring you an exclusive 3-day, 2-night adventure, with expert-led nature hikes, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting, mouth-watering, local food and drink, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies.

A Walk in the Woods has generously provided access to Camp Atagahi, their staff, and their Smokies expertise to make this event really shine!

DLiA’s Will, Jaimie, and Todd will be your guides for the duration of the Eco-Adventure. They’re excited to be your gracious hosts and share their expert knowledge of the natural and cultural history of the Smokies!

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is a truly unique experience!

Guided hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to learn about local flora and fauna, including wildflowers and other plants, pollinators and insects, fungi and more!

Hike on a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail (AT)

Morning bird-watching at camp

Guided night hike to look for nocturnal creatures, using a bat detector and UV flashlights.

Evening campfires to share stories and s’mores

Freshly prepared meals, including beer and wine.

Luxury Camping Accommodations, including spacious tents with cots and mattress

Enjoy hot showers after a day on the trail

Purchase Tickets

Yo

Camp Atagahi

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning, locally owned and operated tour guide company, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years, serving over 100,000 visitors along the way!

All meals are included with your ticket price, prepared on site with local produce, cheeses, and other ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Beer and wine are also provided as well as soft drinks of your choice. (We’ll inquire about your dietary restrictions and beverage choices close to the event.)

Camp Atagahi is A Walk in the Woods’ premiere off-grid camping facility located in a small valley just north of the National Park boundary between Pitman Center and Cosby, Tennessee. It features a well-stocked off-grid commercial kitchen and excellent bathroom facility with running water, flush toilets, and hot showers. Guests are lulled to sleep at night by the babbling creek that flows through camp. Tents are spacious, mounted on wooden platforms, and feature a covered “front porch” area where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine, listening to the sounds of nature.

Guided Hikes in the Smokies

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure in April features guided hikes during peak wildflower season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a short drive from Camp Atagahi). We’ll keep it slow and easy-going, with lots of stops to admire and talk about the Smokies’ incredible biodiversity, including native trees, pollinating insects, birds, and more. We’ll also share our expert knowledge of the cultural history of the landscape.

Our one-of-a-kind hikes will leave you with a new appreciation for the incredible variety of life in the Smokies region and they’re really fun, too!

Eco-Adventure Itinerary

Sunday, April 21: Guests will meet in GSMNP at noon and enjoy light snacks and introductions. We’ll go on guided hike led by DLiA staff on the Twin Creeks Trail (Total trail mileage under 2 miles) In the late afternoon, we’ll get load up our gear and get transported to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our not-too-rustic glamping accommodations. We’ll have drinks and a wholesome dinner. We’ll finish off with s’mores around a campfire.

Monday, April 22: We’ll have locally-sourced coffee and a hot breakfast at camp and pack sack lunches. We’ll then head to the Greenbrier area in GSMNP on our hike to Fern Branch Falls on the Porter’s Creek trail. This hike is 4 miles round-trip and is considered moderate. We’ll arrive back at camp by late afternoon and enjoy southern fixins’ around the campfire. If you’re up for it, we’ll go for a night hike at the camp to look for nocturnal critters.

Tuesday, April 23: We’ll start with a hot breakfast, pack sack lunches, and pack up our gear. If the conditions and views are favorable, we head up to the high elevations in the park for a hike along the infamous Appalachian Trail. We’ll finish up around 4 pm. We’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart.

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, park closures or at the discretion of DLIA.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets: $950 per person

Your ticket purchase supports Discover Life in America (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), helping us continue our work as a partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person, which includes accommodations, food and alcohol, as well as expert-guided nature hikes.

Pricing is based on double occupancy of tents, so if you are traveling alone, you may be assigned to share a tent with someone of the same gender.

REGISTRATION CLOSES: April 1, 2024

CANCELLATION POLICY: Full payment is due upon ticket purchase. If you decide to cancel your spot, we will refund your ticket only if we are able to sell your ticket. No refunds will be given after registration closes on April 1st.

What will your ticket purchase support

Biodiversity research in the Smokies

Our biology interships…

…and photo/videography internships

Biodiversity education

Public engagement through community science

Conservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies

Specifically, you’ll help support

research with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, aimed at cataloging, understanding, and ultimately conserving the 21,000+ species that call the Smokies home

our world-class summer internship program, where we train the next generation of scientists and nature advocates through an immersive experience in the Smokies

our educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP, fostering nature literacy among our community ( iScience and Smokies Most Wanted)

and much more!

ELECTRICITY AND CELL SERVICE: There is no electricity at Camp Atagahi other than a battery back that you may use to charge your phone. There is little to no cell reception at the Camp and in the National Park. Please plan accordingly. If you use a CPAP machine to sleep, you may consider purchasing an appropriate battery pack to power that device during the event.

FAQs

Q. What is the expected weather?

April in the Smokies is usually mild, with daytime temperatures reaching the 50s and 60s, and nighttime sometimes approaching the freezing mark. It’s best to wear layers that you can shed if it’s warm or pile on for those cool nights. But this of course varies from year to year. The region does receive lots of rain (which fuels the growth of all those wildflowers), so be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho.

Q. How many people will be in attendance?

Space is limited to 15 attendees at the eco-camp where we’ll be staying (2 people per tent with 10 tents). This is a nice group size that permits lots of one-on-one interaction with your guides.

Q. If don’t consider myself a serious hiker, will I be able to keep up?

Our hikes are very much tailored to the abilities and interests of the group and generally follow a leisurely pace as we stop and look at insects, mushrooms, and lots of other sights to see. As long as you are able to walk around 4 miles over several hours, you should be fine.

Q. If I come to the Eco-Adventure alone, will I have to share a tent?

The ticket price for this event is based on double occupancy, so expect that singletons may be paired with another same-gender singleton. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a fellow nature lover and future friend!

Q. What is included in the ticket price?

The ticket price includes all accommodations, food (including vegetarian and vegan options), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and expert-led hikes from noon Sunday through Tuesday afternoon.

Q. What do I need to bring?

Please bring a sleeping bag, towel, day pack and wear sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear and cool weather clothing. Also, please bring a well-fitting face mask. Tents, cots, sleeping pads, and other basics are all provided. You can find a full list of required and recommended items above on this page. Attendees will receive additional information via email prior to the event.

Q. Will there be electricity or cell service at the camp?

Camp Atagahi does not have grid electricity, however, we will provide a battery back that you can use to charge your cell phone and other small electronics. There is little to no cell signal in the area. The Eco-Adventure is a great chance to step away from the busy world and enjoy some screen-free time in nature!

Q. If I have any other questions, who should I contact?

Please contact DLiA’s Biodiversity Program Specialist, Jaimie Matzko, at jaimie@dlia.org and she’ll be happy to answer your questions about the Eco-Adventure. You can also visit dlia.org to learn more about DLiA’s work in the Smokies.

Conservation on Tap
2024-06-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Join Great Smoky Mountains National Park spokesperson Emily Davis for a summer update on what’s happening in the park. Emily will cover topics like the new parking fees, bear population, staffing, trail projects, and much more!

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Conservation on Tap
2024-09-11 19:00 - 20:30
Conservation on Tap

When? September 11, 7.00 p.m.Where? Albright Grove Brewing Company in Knoxville

Free!

Knoxville Recycles!

Join Keep Knoxville Beautiful to learn more about how and where to recycle in Knoxville. What can be recycled? What can’t. What about hazardous waste? What really happens to all that stuff in the recycling bin? Plus, learn about all the other new and innovative projects KKB is involved with.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Great Smokies Eco-Adventure: Oct 27-29
2024-10-27 12:00 - 2024-10-29 16:00
Mark your calendar for an immersive Smokies experience like none other! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA and partner A Walk in the Woods bring you a 3-day, 2-night adventure, with expert-led nature hikes, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting, mouth-watering, local food and drink, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies.

A Walk in the Woods has generously provided access to Camp Atagahi, their staff, and their Smokies expertise to make this event really shine!

DLiA’s Will, Jaimie, and Todd will be your guides for the duration of the Eco-Adventure. They’re excited to be your gracious hosts and share their expert knowledge of the natural and cultural history of the Smokies!

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is a truly unique experience!

🍁 Guided nature hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including a section of the famous Appalachian Trail (AT).

🔦 Guided night hike to look for nocturnal creatures using a bat detector and UV flashlights.

🔥 Evening campfires to share stories and s’mores.

🍴 Locally-sourced meals (vegan and gluten-free alternatives available) signature cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine included.

⛺ Cozy camping accommodations, including spacious tents with cots and mattresses and a bath house with hot showers and flush toilets.

Purchase Tickets

Yo

Founded in 2010, Ole Smoky Distillery is the leading craft distiller in the U.S. and the first federally licensed distillery in the history of East Tennessee. At the fall Eco-Adventure, the company will provide Harvest Ginger signature cocktails featuring its award-winning Apple Pie Moonshine as well as a non-alcoholic mocktailoption. Learn more at olesmoky.com

Camp Atagahi

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning, locally owned and operated tour guide company, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years, serving over 100,000 visitors along the way!

All meals are included with your ticket price, prepared on site with local produce, cheeses, and other ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Beer and wine are also provided as well as soft drinks of your choice. (We’ll inquire about your dietary restrictions and beverage choices close to the event.)Guided hikes in the Smokies

Camp Atagahi is A Walk in the Woods’ premiere off-grid camping facility located in a small valley just north of the National Park boundary between Pitman Center and Cosby, Tennessee. It features a well-stocked off-grid commercial kitchen and excellent bathroom facility with running water, flush toilets, and hot showers. Guests are lulled to sleep at night by the babbling creek that flows through camp. Tents are spacious, mounted on wooden platforms, and feature a covered “front porch” area where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine, listening to the sounds of nature.

Guided Hikes in the Smokies

The Fall Smokies Eco-Adventure features guided hikes during peak leaf foliage season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a short drive from Camp Atagahi). We’ll keep it slow and easy-going, with lots of stops to admire and talk about the Smokies’ incredible biodiversity, including native trees, pollinating insects, birds, and more. We’ll also share our expert knowledge of the cultural history of the landscape.

Our one-of-a-kind hikes will leave you with a new appreciation for the incredible variety of life in the Smokies region and they’re really fun, too!

Eco-Adventure Itinerary

Sunday, October 27: Guests will meet at the DLiA office at noon and enjoy light snacks and introductions. We’ll go on guided hike led by DLiA staff on the Twin Creeks Trail (Total trail mileage under 2 miles) In the late afternoon, we’ll get load up our gear and get transported to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our not-too-rustic glamping accommodations. We’ll have drinks and a wholesome dinner and finish off with s’mores around a campfire.

Monday, October 28: We’ll have locally-sourced coffee and a hot breakfast at camp and pack sack lunches. We’ll then head to the Greenbrier area in GSMNP on our hike to Fern Branch Falls on the Porter’s Creek trail. This hike is 4 miles round-trip and is considered moderate. We’ll arrive back at camp by late afternoon and enjoy southern fixins’ around the campfire. If you’re up for it, we’ll go for a night hike at the camp to look for nocturnal critters.

Tuesday, October 29: We’ll start with a hot breakfast, pack sack lunches, and pack up our gear. If the conditions and views are favorable, we head up to the high elevations in the park for a hike on the infamous Appalachian Trail (AT). We’ll finish up around 4 pm. We’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart.

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, park closures or at the discretion of DLIA.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets: $950 per person

Your ticket purchase supports Discover Life in America (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), helping us continue our work as a partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person, which includes accommodations, food and alcohol, as well as expert-guided nature hikes.

Pricing is based on double occupancy of tents, so if you are traveling alone, you may be assigned to share a tent with someone of the same gender.

REGISTRATION CLOSES: Oct 1st, 2024

CANCELLATION POLICY: Full payment is due upon ticket purchase. If you decide to cancel your spot, we will refund your ticket only if we are able to sell your ticket. No refunds will be given after registration closes on October 1.

What will your ticket purchase support

Biodiversity research in the Smokies

Our biology interships…

…and photo/videography internships

Biodiversity education

Public engagement through community science

Conservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies

Specifically, you’ll help support

Research with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, aimed at cataloging, understanding, and ultimately conserving the 21,000+ species that call the Smokies home.

our world-class summer internship program, where we train the next generation of scientists and nature advocates through an immersive experience in the Smokies.

our educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP, fostering nature literacy among our community ( iScience and Smokies Most Wanted)

and much more!

ELECTRICITY AND CELL SERVICE: There is no electricity at Camp Atagahi other than a battery pack that you may use to charge your phone. There is little to no cell reception at the Camp and in the National Park. Please plan accordingly. If you use a CPAP machine to sleep, you may consider purchasing an appropriate battery pack to power that device during the event.

FAQs

Q. What is the expected weather?

October in the Smokies is usually mild, with daytime temperatures reaching the 50s and 60s, and nighttime sometimes approaching the freezing mark. It’s best to wear layers that you can shed if it’s warm or pile on for those cool nights. But this of course varies from year to year. The region does receive lots of rain (which fuels the growth of all those wildflowers), so be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho.

Q. How many people will be in attendance?

Space is limited to 15 attendees at the eco-camp where we’ll be staying (2 people per tent with 10 tents). This is a nice group size that permits lots of one-on-one interaction with your guides.

Q. If don’t consider myself a serious hiker, will I be able to keep up?

Our hikes are very much tailored to the abilities and interests of the group and generally follow a leisurely pace as we stop and look at insects, mushrooms, and lots of other sights to see. As long as you are able to walk around 4 miles over several hours, you should be fine.

Q. If I come to the Eco-Adventure alone, will I have to share a tent?

The ticket price for this event is based on double occupancy, so expect that singletons may be paired with another same-gender singleton. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a fellow nature lover and future friend!

Q. What is included in the ticket price?

The ticket price includes all accommodations, food (including vegetarian and vegan options), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and expert-led hikes from noon Sunday through Tuesday afternoon.

Q. What do I need to bring?

Please bring a sleeping bag, towel, day pack and wear sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear and cool weather clothing. Tents, cots, sleeping pads, and other basics are all provided. You can find a full list of required and recommended items above on this page. Attendees will receive additional information via email prior to the event.

Q. Will there be electricity or cell service at the camp?

Camp Atagahi does not have grid electricity and there is little to no cell signal in the area. We will provide a battery back that you can use to charge your cell phone and other small electronics. Though, The Eco-Adventure is an opportunity to escape from the busy world and enjoy some screen-free time in nature!

Q. If I have any other questions, who should I contact?

Please contact DLiA’s Biodiversity Program Specialist, Jaimie Matzko, at jaimie@dlia.org and she’ll be happy to answer your questions about the Eco-Adventure or visit dlia.org.

Conservation on Tap
2024-11-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on TapWednesday, November 13 at 7pmat Albright Brewing Company

Across North America, bird populations have declined by 2.9 billion since 1970. Cities, however, can play a vital role in reversing this trend by creating safer, healthier environments for birds.

Our monthly speaker, Nasyr Bey, is a Conservation and Policy Fellow and Nashville’s Urban Bird Treaty City Coordinator. Hear about how this Nature Conservancy partner program is reducing urban hazards and engaging the community in helping out our feathered friends.

SPECIAL NOTE: Albright Grove Brewing is now serving delicious farm-to-table food! Pizza, smash burgers, hot legs, mushroom Philly, fish & chips, and more.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Fireflies at Norton Creek 2025
2025-06-05 19:00 - 22:30
WHAT TO EXPECT //WAITLIST // FAQs

Watch the Smokies’ magical fireflies in style! Our annual firefly event is a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. From the comfort of a luxurious private reserve, enjoy food and drink surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, and witness an incredible display of synchronous and blue ghost fireflies (and other glowing critters) guided by our knowledgeable staff. Four nights to choose from. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help us at Discover Life in America carry out our mission to understand and conserve the diversity of life in the Smokies.

All proceeds from this event support DLiA and our work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (learn more).

NOTE: This is NOT the synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a private fundraising event located on private land adjacent to the park.

Tickets

Tickets for the event are $300 per person.

Tickets are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed at this event). Each ticket is for a single night of the event.

Four nights to choose from!

Thursday, June 5 SOLD OUT!

Friday, June 6 SOLD OUT!

Saturday, June 7 SOLD OUT!

Sunday, June 8 SOLD OUT!

Join Waitlist

What to expect

Location: Norton Creek Preserve, a 2,000-acre tract adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains NP, near Gatlinburg, TN. Detailed directions will be sent to ticketholders before the event.

Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team.

Drinks are included: local beer as well as wine, sodas, and tea

Includes expert-guided firefly viewing: we’ll point out different firefly species and answer your firefly questions

Light, uphill walking will be involved on paved and gravel surfaces

Rain or shine: we’ll hold the event even if rain is forecast (see FAQs)

No pets allowed

Open to kids 10 and up (ticket required for each child)

More information: ticketholders will receive directions and details via email in mid-May

FAQs: read our list of frequently asked questions for more information

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

for your support of our work in discovering, understanding and conserving biodiversity in the Smokies and beyond.

gorgeous venue

Hemlock House

Hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery //Luca Pfeiffer

//Luca Pfeiffer

Incredible interior //Luca Pfeiffer

Glow-in-the-dark firefly blankets for sale! //Luca Pfeiffer

A magnificent ravine for fireflies

//Luca Pfeiffer

Fireflies, galore!

Synchronous firefly //Abbott Nature

Light trails of blue ghosts //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost male //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost female //Abbott Nature

Firefly larva //Abbott Nature

Blue glow of fungus gnats //Luca Pfeiffer

Synchronous fireflies’ woodland display //Abbott Nature

What people love about our event

Guided firefly viewing. Our knowledgeable staff will point out different firefly species to you and can tell you what makes each one special.

It’s private. This event is held on private land and we only host around 50 guests per night. Each guest can witness the magic on their own without the crowds.

The venue is magnificent! You’ll love exploring the guest house where we start our event and the gorgeous surrounding property nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

It’s dark. We try to keep things very dark so your eyes can adjust, allowing you to see the wonderful bioluminescence around you. (Don’t worry, we’ve got lights if you need them.)

Cancellation policy

Full payment is due at checkout. We will be happy to refund your payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot, up until May 22, 2025. After that date, no refunds will be given.

FAQs

Q. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A. Nope. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery, dates for the lottery, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Q. $300 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it?

A. We certainly think so! You can expect a lot of value for the ticket price AND you’re supporting Discover Life in America and our important work in the Smokies! Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. You’ll get to explore the private venue, which is not open to the public. It’s a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark that’s set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with Will Kuhn, our resident entomologist, who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather, you’ll see them in a leisurely, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are confident that you’ll enjoy yourself and learn something new!

Q. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active?

A. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system, typically releasing those dates around late April. We, however, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the nine years that we’ve been doing this event, we’ve never been disappointed.

Q. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that?

A. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample the pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Q. Where should I stay during the event?

A. Lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event; but there are lots of hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These are the two closest large communities to the venue and they’re about equal distance from the venue. There are also lots of cabins and small rental properties along “The Spur” (The Spur is a section of the Foothills Parkway connecting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg; a.k.a. HWY 441).

Q. Are kids allowed at this event?

A. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to attend this event.

Q. Will the event be canceled if rain is in forecast?

A. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain (one of the reasons it’s so rich in fireflies) but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes places inside, under cover, and the viewing is outside under decent canopy cover. We highly recommend that you bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing. Rain or shine, it’s going to be great!

Q. In the description for this event, you mention “other glowing critters.” What do you mean?

A. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) and blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata), we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.), which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies, Orfelia fultoni), which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We will see some of the region’s 9 other glowing firefly species, too, as we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to start their show. We usually find the glowing larvae of a number of firefly species, as well. So much bioluminescence to see and we’ll point glowers out to you as we encounter them!

Q. Other questions?

A. Please carefully read our FAQ for answers to common questions, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757.

Fireflies at Norton Creek 2025
2025-06-06 19:00 - 22:30
WHAT TO EXPECT // WAITLIST // FAQs

Watch the Smokies’ magical fireflies in style! Our annual firefly event is a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. From the comfort of a luxurious private reserve, enjoy food and drink surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, and witness an incredible display of synchronous and blue ghost fireflies (and other glowing critters) guided by our knowledgeable staff. Four nights to choose from. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help us at Discover Life in America carry out our mission to understand and conserve the diversity of life in the Smokies.

All proceeds from this event support DLiA and our work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (learn more).

NOTE: This is NOT the synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a private fundraising event located on private land adjacent to the park.

Four nights to choose from!

Thursday, June 5 SOLD OUT!

Friday, June 6 SOLD OUT!

Saturday, June 7 SOLD OUT!

Sunday, June 8 SOLD OUT!

Join Waitlist

Tickets

Tickets for the event are $300 per person.

Tickets are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed at this event). Each ticket is for a single night of the event.

What to expect

Location: Norton Creek Preserve, a 2,000 acre tract adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains NP, near Gatlinburg, TN. Detailed directions will be sent to ticketholders before the event.

Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team.

Drinks are included: local beer as well as wine, sodas, and tea

Includes expert-guided firefly viewing: we’ll point out different firefly species and answer your firefly questions

Light, uphill walking will be involved on paved and gravel surfaces

Rain or shine: we’ll hold the event even if rain is forecast (see FAQs)

No pets allowed

Open to kids 10 and up (ticket required for each child)

More information: ticketholders will receive directions and details via email in mid-May

FAQs: read our list of frequently asked questions for more information

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

for your support of our work in discovering, understanding and conserving biodiversity in the Smokies and beyond.

gorgeous venue

Hemlock House

Hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery //Luca Pfeiffer

//Luca Pfeiffer

Incredible interior //Luca Pfeiffer

Glow-in-the-dark firefly blankets for sale! //Luca Pfeiffer

A magnificent ravine for fireflies

//Luca Pfeiffer

Fireflies, galore!

Synchronous firefly //Abbott Nature

Light trails of blue ghosts //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost male //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost female //Abbott Nature

Firefly larva //Abbott Nature

Blue glow of fungus gnats //Luca Pfeiffer

Synchronous fireflies’ woodland display //Abbott Nature

What people love about our event

Guided firefly viewing. Our knowledgeable staff will point out different firefly species to you and can tell you what makes each one special.

It’s private. This event is held on private land and we only host around 50 guests per night. Each guest can witness the magic on their own without the crowds.

The venue is magnificent! You’ll love exploring the guest house where we start our event and the gorgeous surrounding property nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

It’s dark. We try to keep things very dark so your eyes can adjust, allowing you to see the wonderful bioluminescence around you. (Don’t worry, we’ve got lights if you need them.)

Cancellation policy

Full payment is due at checkout. We will be happy to refund your payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot, up until May 22, 2025. After that date, no refunds will be given.

FAQs

Q. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A. Nope. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery, dates for the lottery, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Q. $300 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it?

A. We certainly think so! You can expect a lot of value for the ticket price AND you’re supporting Discover Life in America and our important work in the Smokies! Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. You’ll get to explore the private venue, which is not open to the public. It’s a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark that’s set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with Will Kuhn, our resident entomologist, who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather, you’ll see them in a leisurely, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are confident that you’ll enjoy yourself and learn something new!

Q. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active?

A. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system, typically releasing those dates around late April. We, however, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the nine years that we’ve been doing this event, we’ve never been disappointed.

Q. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that?

A. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample the pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Q. Where should I stay during the event?

A. Lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event; but there are lots of hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These are the two closest large communities to the venue and they’re about equal distance from the venue. There are also lots of cabins and small rental properties along “The Spur” (The Spur is a section of the Foothills Parkway connecting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg; a.k.a. HWY 441).

Q. Are kids allowed at this event?

A. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to attend this event.

Q. Will the event be canceled if rain is in forecast?

A. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain (one of the reasons it’s so rich in fireflies) but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes places inside, under cover, and the viewing is outside under decent canopy cover. We highly recommend that you bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing. Rain or shine, it’s going to be great!

Q. In the description for this event, you mention “other glowing critters.” What do you mean?

A. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) and blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata), we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.), which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies, Orfelia fultoni), which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We will see some of the region’s 9 other glowing firefly species, too, as we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to start their show. We usually find the glowing larvae of a number of firefly species, as well. So much bioluminescence to see and we’ll point glowers out to you as we encounter them!

Q. Other questions?

A. Please carefully read our FAQ for answers to common questions, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757.
