The cicada's clicking hum starts slow and builds to a crescendo that conjures images of a hot summer day when Slurpees ruled, and Big Buddies were the gum of choice.
This summer happens to be the year of the "Brood X," the cicada type that comes out once every 17 years. These bugs have been in hibernation since 2004 when George W. Bush was thinking about his second term, YouTube was gaining momentum, and the highlight of the Super Bowl was Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction."
The Brood X is just one of a few types of cicadas that come out on schedule when the ground is regularly about 64 degrees Fahrenheit, which is around mid-May. They aren't everywhere either, just around the southeastern U.S. and as far west as the Ohio area, but the lines are blurred a bit - who's watching them anyway?
This article is exclusively for our Locals Only members. Please Sign In or upgrade to become a Locals Only Member today!
Your support helps us continue delivering more in-depth community news that matters to you. Thank you.
Recent Stories

SAVE THE DATE
September 11, 2025
Location: Sport Rock Climbing Center
9811 Washingtonian Blvd Ste 300, Gaithersburg, Md 20878

We’re excited to share that Molly’s Dog Care has officially opened its doors at 8525 Chevy Chase Lake Terrace, Suite 302, Chevy Chase, MD 20815!
Whether you’re looking for dog daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, or training, our experienced team is here to provide a safe, loving, and enriching environment for your furry family members. Our services are designed with your dog’s happiness and well-being in mind because at Molly’s, we treat every pup like our own.
A Message from Owner Aaron DeVane:
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has