Bee Package Installation Class

Register

Join us for our hands-on class on how to install a package of bees with Head Beekeeper Marcin Matelski!

Are you a brand new beekeeper starting out this year? Or want to brush up on your beekeeping skills before the season starts? GPCA is offering a class on how to install your bees. This hands-on class will take place in our apiary and will include an actual installation of package bees. We’ll also cover topics of feeding, adding room to your colonies and management over the first 6-8 weeks. Weather depending, we may also open up some of our overwintered hives to show an active colony and explain what’s happening in those hives. All experience levels welcome!

Admission:
$30 General Admission
$24 Members/Volunteers*
*Member discount applied at check out with member login. For GPC volunteer discounts, please email volunteering@garfieldpark.org 

PLEASE NOTE: Participants will be working directly with active beehives. 

Participants are encouraged to bring their own personal protective equipment if they have it. If not, protective equipment will also be available upon request (veils, gloves, jackets). 

Attendees will be required to sign a waiver to participate in this program, since the program will include risk of insect stings and access to non-public areas of the Conservatory. 

Scholarships are available! Please fill out this Scholarship Application (link opens in a new tab) or contact Jasmine Sawyer at jsawyer@garfieldpark.org for more information. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Friday, March 28th at 5:00pm CST.

Accommodations: When you register for this workshop you will be asked to provide any accommodations requests. If you have any questions or would like to request an additional accommodation, please contact access@garfieldpark.org at least 72 hours prior to the event start.

Please read our updated Covid-19 protocols (link opens in a new tab).

Please note that reservations are required to visit the indoor and outdoor gardens of the Conservatory. If you’d like to visit the Conservatory immediately after participating in this program, book your visit here (link opens in a new tab).

Registration ends Friday, April 4th at 5:00pm CST.

For all fee-based programs and tours, we are able to provide full refunds up to two weeks prior to the program date. Within two weeks, we can offer a credit for a future class, or a refund in the event that we have a waitlist for the program and we can fill your spot.