July 2 proclaimed
Georgia Firefly Day
by Gov. Kemp
Georgia is home to more than 50 species of fireflies — more than any state in the country.
Now, thanks to a proclamation from the governor of Georgia, these bioluminescent beauties have earned a spot on the calendar:
July 2 is officially Georgia Firefly Day.
“Fireflies are more than backyard magic — they are indicators of healthy ecosystems, reminders to slow down and notice nature and a spark for curiosity and conservation,” said Becky Griffin, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension community and school garden coordinator. “This proclamation shines a light on the incredible work of citizen scientists, families, educators and communities across Georgia who are helping us better understand and protect fireflies.”
Griffin and her community partners have spent countless hours raising awareness surrounding the lifecycle and habitat needs of fireflies through Lights Off, Fireflies On!
Dinner with the fireflies
The annual Firefly Dinner is a way to showcase the project, share accomplishments from the past year and watch the fireflies at Noontootla Creek Farms in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Supported by the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, the 2026 dinner celebrated the Habitat Ordinance (2025-3) passed last September to limit outdoor nighttime lighting. Now, thanks to a proclamation from the governor, these bioluminescent beauties have earned a spot on the calendar.
“Fireflies enrich our summer evenings, delighting generations of Georgians and visitors alike with their beauty and providing important ecological benefits.”
The official proclamation
Whereas: Georgia is home to approximately fifty species of fireflies, a treasured part of our state’s natural heritage; and
Whereas: Fireflies enrich our summer evenings, delighting generations of Georgians and visitors alike with their beauty and providing important ecological benefits; and
Whereas: Our community and visitors are dedicated to protecting fireflies and their habitat by limiting artificial outdoor night lighting and creating firefly habitat; and
Whereas: Organizations including the University of Georgia Extension, local Chambers of Commerce, schools, and businesses have joined together to educate the public, foster stewardship, and ensure that fireflies continue to thrive for future generations; and
Whereas: These efforts, such as those from Fannin County, highlight Georgia’s commitment to environmental conservation, outdoor enjoyment, and preserving the simple wonders that make our state unique; now
Therefore: I, Brian P. Kemp, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim July 2nd, 2026, as Georgia Firefly Day in Georgia.
