National Honey Bee Day

National Honey Bee Day was created to help people appreciate the incredible contributions of bees and raise awareness about the challenges they face. These small but mighty insects are vital to our ecosystem, yet they are often overlooked. The third Saturday of August is the perfect time to learn more about their importance and how we can help protect them.

History

National Honey Bee Day was first established in 2009 to promote beekeeping and raise public awareness about the essential role bees play in agriculture. Since then, its popularity has grown steadily, attracting beekeepers, volunteers, and educators from around the world.

Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries in various dishes—baklava, biscuits, cakes, gingerbread, and chak-chak, to name a few. It also pairs well with savory foods like marinated meats and is often added to tea or used in home remedies.

Ancient Egyptians were among the first to recognize honey’s medicinal value. In Greece, it was used for food preservation. Beekeeping has deep historical roots in many cultures.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that honey bees:

• Cannot see the color red;
• Can cover up to 12 hectares in a single day while foraging;
• Always return to their hive, no matter the distance;
• Are consumed as food in some countries, including Sri Lanka;
• Produce honey primarily to nourish their young;
• Can fly at speeds up to 65 km/h (about 40 mph);
• Use their advanced sense of smell to detect nectar from several miles away.

Honey itself can retain its beneficial properties for years if properly stored.

How to Take Part

Many people wonder, “Can I become a beekeeper?” The answer is yes! It requires learning, preparation, and advice from professionals—but it’s absolutely achievable.

If you can’t maintain your own hive, celebrate the day by preparing a honey-based recipe, supporting local honey producers, or attending a honey tasting event. Even small actions can help raise awareness and support pollinators.

When is National Honey Bee Day in 2025?

National Honey Bee Day is observed on the third Saturday of August each year.

Observations