Hendricks County families will have a sticky good time at the second annual Honeybee Fest, Saturday, Aug. 26, 1-4- p.m. at McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem. This year’s event includes important educational material, safety tips, equipment demonstrations and family fun activities.
After a successful inaugural event, McCloud Park Naturalists are once again working with master beekeepers to promote the insect’s preservation.
“Our goal is to educate people about the need for pollinators so we can preserve these creatures and have a fun time together,” said McCloud Nature Park Communications and Marketing Director Eric Ivie. “Last year we had around 300 people attend. It was fun! We were able to share valuable tips and information and enjoy great products.”
The observation hive will take center stage in the Arboretum where visitors can watch honeybees hard at work and learn how they create colonies, produce, and pollinate. When initially established, the hive was home to around 60,000 honeybees. The bees were donated by local Master Bee Keeper, Terry Planks of Terry’s Apiary. Today, it is estimated to house over 80,000 insects.
Six master beekeepers will be there to share knowledge on how to safely keep colonies, maintain bee health and produce quality bee products and services.
Also hosting educational booths are The Hendricks County 4-H Beekeepers, Indiana Native Plant and Wildlife Society, (INPAWS) and Carno.
McCloud Park Naturalists have coordinated with the Brownsburg Parks and Recreation members to host a series of family activities. Some of these include: inspecting a live hive, bee themed lawn games and crafts for kids. Face painting is free and will be provided by local artist Rachel Davis of the Purple Palette.
Kids won’t want to miss the chance to make their own ice cream. If it doesn’t turn out–not to worry mom–Orange Leaf will be onsite selling frozen yogurt.
Honey tastings have become a popular event nationwide. There are literally thousands of varieties of honey and each region has its own terroir. Be sure to sample from each of the honey makers who will compete for the title of Hendricks County’s Best Honey.
There are an amazing number of things related to honey bees and their products,” Ivie said. “We want to attract, preserve and help the honey bee.”
The event is scheduled rain or shine and admission is free for all ages. For more information, call (765) 676-5437.
By Tiffany Giles