"Unoki Nature Preservation Society" and "Unoki Fireflies Take Flight Society" held the "13th Unoki Firefly Evening" on June 13 (Sat.) and 14 (Sun.), 2026, at the biotope (schoolyard pond) of Sayama City Irumagawa Elementary School. This event, co-hosted by Irumagawa Elementary School and the Unoki District Neighborhood Association, was a popular early summer tradition for the region, attracting many families. ■ Background of the Event: 13 Years Since Residents' Desire to Protect Spring Water Began Fireflies, once commonly seen throughout Sayama City, have declined with urbanization. Currently, fireflies are limited to very few areas within the city, such as the Okutomi district and Chiko-zan Park. In this context, prompted by the improvement of a nearby walking path in 2013, the "Unoki Fireflies Take Flight Society" was formed at the call of Mr. Yoshiaki Oba, then a resident welfare commissioner and now the chairman, with the aim of "protecting the rich spring water in our community and creating a place where fireflies can fly in the future." The first event was held that same year at Unoki Shimizu Park, known for its abundant spring water. Subsequently, the activity moved to the elementary school's biotope, and the community and school have worked together to protect the environment where fireflies thrive. ■ The Event: "They're really fireflies!" Children's Cheers Echoed Through the Night On the day of the 13th event, the weather was clear despite the rainy season, and many local residents and families attended. As the faint glow of fireflies illuminated the darkened biotope, children exclaimed, "They're really fireflies!" and "There are so many flying!" filling the venue with smiles throughout the evening. It was a valuable opportunity for children to experience firsthand the importance of the environment by observing fireflies in the familiar schoolyard. ■ Comments from Organizer (Yoshiaki Oba) This year marks the 13th "Firefly Evening" hosted by the "Unoki Firef