Johnston County, North Carolina
Thank you for the overwhelming interest in our bee school! All spots for the current session have been filled.
Join our mailing list below to be the first to know when we announce the next Bee School.
Don't want to wait? Check out these upcoming bee schools nearby:
🍯 Wilson County Beekeepers Association — Bee School starting March 2026
Visit their website for details & registration →
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Johnston County Agricultural Center
2736 NC-210 STE. A, Smithfield, NC 27577
Whether you are brand new to beekeeping or looking to refresh your skills, the Johnston County Beekeepers Association is excited to welcome you to our official 2026 One-Day Bee School! This comprehensive program covers everything a new or aspiring beekeeper needs to start their beekeeping journey with confidence.
Please note: Minors under 8 years old are not admitted at this time.
Full day of instruction from experienced beekeepers
All school materials
BBQ lunch with sides
(If you have special dietary needs, please bring your own lunch)
2026 JCBA Annual Membership
Access to club apiary inspection days
Access to club equipment including honey extractors, uncapping tools, oxalic acid vaporizer + respirator
Free honey moisture testing at the Ag Center
Monthly meetings with educational speakers
“Bee Basics” beginner class at each monthly meeting (6:30–7:00 PM)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30–8:00 | Check In |
| 8:00–8:30 | Welcome / Introduction to Beekeeping |
| 8:30–9:15 | Bee Biology |
| 9:15–9:25 | Break |
| 9:25–10:10 | Bee Biology (Part 2) |
| 10:10–10:20 | Break + Giveaways |
| 10:20–10:50 | Getting Started: Installing a Package |
| 10:50–11:20 | Breakout Session 1 |
| 11:20–12:15 | Lunch |
| 12:15–1:00 | Seasonal Management – Part 1 |
| 1:00–1:10 | Break + Giveaways |
| 1:10–1:55 | Seasonal Management – Part 2 (Bee Number Cards) |
| 1:55–2:05 | Break + Giveaways |
| 2:05–2:35 | Breakout Session 2 |
| 2:35–3:20 | Bee Pests |
| 3:20–3:30 | Break + Giveaways |
| 3:30–4:15 | Bee Diseases |
| 4:15–4:45 | Breakout Session 3 |
| 4:45–5:00 | Conclusion and Close |
