Become a beekeeper in 2 days at Johnston County Bee School!
Whether you’re planning your first hive or already have bees and want a solid foundation, JCBA Bee School gets you started the right way. Spend a full day in the classroom learning the fundamentals from experienced local beekeepers, then put it into practice on Apiary Day with live bees, real equipment, and small-group instruction.
Students at a past Johnston County Bee School
Learn • Gain hands-on experience • Make a difference
Day 1 – Classroom
Saturday, February 27, 2027
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Johnston County Agriculture Center
2736 NC-210, Smithfield, NC 27577
Map & directions
Learn the fundamentals of beekeeping from experienced local beekeepers, including bee biology, pests, diseases, seasonal management, and more.
Day 2 – Apiary Day
Saturday, March 13, 2027
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Johnston County Livestock Arena
520 County Home Rd, Smithfield, NC 27577
Map & directions
- Live 5-frame nuc install
- Hands-on experience in the hive
- Equipment and hive products
- Small-group instruction
What’s Included with Johnston County Bee School
- Both days of instruction — classroom and hands-on apiary
- 1-year membership to the Johnston County Beekeepers Association (JCBA)
- 1-year membership to the North Carolina State Beekeepers Association (NCSBA)
- The opportunity to take the certified exam, offered at the conclusion of the class
What You’ll Learn
The full class schedule will be posted here soon. Topics include:
- Honey bee biology
- Pests and diseases
- Seasonal colony management
- Beekeeping equipment and hive products
- Installing a nuc and working a live hive
Good to Know
- One registration covers one attendee for both days.
- Apiary Day is outdoors and hands-on with live bees. Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and light-colored clothing.
- New to the club? Learn more about the Johnston County Beekeepers Association.
Real bees. Real skills. Start your beekeeping journey with confidence — register for Johnston County Bee School today!