Buzz is building ahead of Wilmington’s first Honey Show

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Local beekeepers will put their products on display later this month at the first New Hanover County Beekeepers Association Honey Show at Halyburton Park on November 15.

The event features 25 competition categories that give beekeepers the chance to submit honey, comb, wax products and food items that use honey. Organizers say the show offers growers feedback from judges and helps producers improve the quality of their products.

“A honey show is a great opportunity for beekeepers to showcase their products,” said Mary Cahill-Roberts, who will serve as a judge.

Cahill-Roberts said the show includes both traditional entries such as jars of honey and cut comb and other categories like baked goods. “We have 25 different categories to enter,” she said.

Susan Warwick, a member of the New Hanover County Beekeepers Association, said competition and judging help beekeepers refine their techniques.

“I’ve entered several different honey shows and competitions. The bees have their part and then the beekeepers have their part,” she said.

Warwick said participants receive scorecards and comments from judges that can guide improvements.

“When you get your scorecards back, you get good, positive, maybe some positive criticism, but some good positive feedback that you can take back with you to work with your bees and make your hives really successful,” Warwick said.

Organizers say most local beekeepers use minimal chemicals in their hives and produce a range of all-natural items such as honeycomb, salves and lotion bars. The association encourages the public to support local producers by buying products at farmers markets or directly from beekeepers.

Information on entry rules and categories is available on the New Hanover County Beekeepers Association website.