The highly anticipated Firefly Festival at High Bridge State Park near Farmville returns – and it’s an amazing sight to see! On Friday, June 19, 2020, and Saturday, June 20, from 9-11 p.m., come take in the spectacular sight of synchronous fireflies by the thousands in the treetops below High Bridge. A ranger guide will be on site to share facts and information about these wonderful, luminous insects. A collection of insects will be available to examine, light traps will be set to attract local insects for identification, and you’ll have the chance to make your own firefly craft!
You can access the program from Camp Paradise Road on the Prince Edward County side of High Bridge, or arrive at the River Road parking area in Cumberland County by 8:30 p.m. in order to have enough time to walk the mile to High Bridge. The program is free, but a $10.00 parking fee applies at the Camp Paradise parking. The $10.00 fee also applies to parking at River Road on the Cumberland County side of the bridge. Be sure to bring water and be prepared to stay out after dark. There will be food trucks on site this year, so bring an appetite! For more information, contact the park office at (434) 315-0457 or highbridgetrail@dcr.virginia.gov.
Exact Event Location: On High Bridge at the Appomattox River Overlook
Did you know? Fireflies have dedicated light organs located under their abdomens. The insects take in oxygen and, inside special cells, combine it with a substance called luciferin to produce light with almost no heat. Firefly light is usually intermittent, and flashes in patterns that are unique to each species. Each blinking pattern is a signal that helps fireflies find potential mates.
Come create a memory you will cherish with friends and family this summer.