Free Four Day Beginning Beekeeping Course

9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 7, 14 and 21, 2026

Field Day TBD.

Registration is now open for the 2026 McDowell Honey Bee School, a hands-on educational opportunity designed for both new and experienced beekeepers. This annual program provides participants with practical instruction and up-to-date information on honey bee biology, hive management, seasonal care, pest and disease management, and best practices for maintaining healthy, productive colonies. Whether you are just getting started or looking to strengthen your beekeeping skills, the McDowell Honey Bee School offers valuable learning opportunities led by knowledgeable instructors.

Applications are currently being accepted, and interested individuals are encouraged to register early, as space may be limited. The program is open to anyone with an interest in beekeeping, agriculture, or pollinator health.

Their will be guest speakers covering important topics of interest each day, there will also be honey tasting, a honey extraction demo, door prizes and lots more! The course is open to anyone over 6 years of age that is interested in learning the basics of beekeeping, no experience is needed. Additional information will be provided on how you and your family can contribute to the process and become a hobbyist beekeeper.

There will be an opportunity to take the NC State Beekeepers Certification exam at the end of the course. A field day will be scheduled and the dates will be communicated on the first day of class.

The course will be taught at the Harold Smith Building McDowell Technical Community College, 54 College Drive, Marion, NC, 28752. An optional textbook can be obtained prior to the course. Information will be sent after registration.

To attend, you must register online. Registration is open and is first come, first serve.

McDowell Honeybee Website Registration.

If you need assistance completing the application or have questions about the program, please contact the N.C. Cooperative Extension, McDowell County Center at (828) 652-8104.