SEBRING — Highlands Hammock State Park is now aglow with the flickering lights of fireflies. Heartland area residents and visitors are cordially invited to experience the magic of the Hammock after dark while passing through areas of the Loop Road filled with tiny ‘twinkling stars.’ The tours will run nightly while visible numbers remain abundant. In the event of inclement weather, tours will not run.

These fairy-like insects, also referred to as lightning bugs, are beetles which emerge annually in the park during the month of March. Upon first appearance, they are generally seen for a window of 10 days to two weeks as their numbers build, peak and wane.

Reservations are required and tickets may be purchased on the day of the tour or one day in advance. Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 for children between the ages of three to 12 years. Tour fees are waived for children younger than three. However, parents are cautioned that this event may not be suitable for very young children. Toddlers and infants must be seated on the lap of an adult. 

Families are advised to arrive in the picnic area by 7 p.m. Boarding and departure are scheduled between 7:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. Trams proceed to the orange grove where bats and owls may be sighted. From this point, trams move slowly around the Loop, pausing in areas where fireflies are clustered. Tours take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Visitors are advised to bring insect repellent. This special event is sponsored by the Friends of Highlands Hammock State Park. Proceeds benefit park improvements. For more information, follow the Friends of Highlands Hammock on Facebook. Highlands Hammock is located at 5931 Hammock Road in Sebring.