Beekeepers and Mead Makers Conference 2024

The Beekeepers and Meadmakers Conference, slated for March 1-3 in Wilkesboro, NC this year, is set to intersect the burgeoning local mead and honey industries with new and exciting research in the field. We have an array of workshops with well-known and respected presenters, mead-and-greet sessions, beekeeping and mead-making workshops, mead and food pairing, mead judging, and more.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned professional you’ll find something of value. Our speakers will be presenting on a variety of topics from high-level academic research to how-to workshops including beekeeping basics, bee ecology, pathogens, fermentation science, ethnobotany, the future of the mead industry, and more. There will be plenty of time to network with other beekeepers, mead makers, and academics and to get lost in the world of honey and mead outside of planned presentations. We will also be hosting a mead judging competition where home brewers and commercial meaderies can submit their most favored flavors for a chance at professional tasting feedback and awards for their work. We look forward to seeing you all at the conference!

Lodging: The conference center is connected to the Holiday Inn Express. We have several rooms blocked off for attendees while they last. You will need to reserve your room by calling 336-838-1800 and let them know you will be attending the NC Mead Alliance Conference to be able to get the discounted rate. 

Food: Those purchasing tickets including meals will have Saturday Lunch, and Sunday Brunch included in your ticket price. 

VIP Mead and Food Pairing Gala: On Friday evening those attending the gala will be treading to a specially crafted multi-course mead and food pairing. Live music by The Almost Irish Band! 

Keynote Speaker: Sandor Katz

Workshop Registration: You will receive a registration form after ticket purchase. This will help us make sure we have workshops scheduled in rooms that will accommodate capacity.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE: Conference Tickets

Day Pass Ticket Options

$25 Student Pass- Includes admission to Saturday workshops only. Must show student ID at conference check-in. 

$40 Student Pass w/ Lunch- Includes admission to Saturday workshops and Saturday Lunch. Music Show Student ID at conference check-in. 

$60 Day Pass- Includes admission to Saturday workshops only. Must show student ID at conference check-in.

$75 Day Pass w/ Lunch-  Includes admission to Saturday workshops and Saturday Lunch. at conference check-in.

Weekend Pass Tickets

$125- Includes Friday-Saturday workshops, events, and meals. (VIP Gala not included) 

Weekend Pass + VIP Gala Tickets

$175- Includes Friday-Saturday workshops, events, meals, and VIP Gala.