Friday, September 20th, 2019, is Bee Day in Raleigh!
The public is invited to two events:
Ribbon-Cutting
September 20th, 2019
2 p.m.
Raleigh Convention Center
500 S. Salisbury Street, Raleigh
Free
Unveiling of new hive and garden
September 20th, 2019
7 p.m.
Lichtin Plaza (in front of Duke Energy Center)
2 E. South Street, Raleigh
More information on both events, from the press release:
The Raleigh Convention Center and Performing Arts Complex is excited to celebrate Bee Day on Friday, Sept. 20! The Raleigh Convention Center will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. with remarks by Mayor Nancy McFarlane.Later, at 7 p.m., the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts will unveil their hive and new garden on Lichtin Plaza.The public is welcome to attend both ceremonies, where complimentary honey and bee-themed refreshments will be served.
Honeybees are critical to the pollination of plants, gardens, and crops, and play a vital role in our planet’s ability to grow food. With a 40% decline of the managed bee population in the U.S., the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex elected to have two hives installed on its properties to demonstrate its commitment to community and sustainability.
“Communities love to gather at the Raleigh Convention Center and Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts to disseminate ideas, work toward common goals, and participate in shared experiences. Just like a beehive, our venues and events are a testament to the value of teamwork and collaboration,” noted Kerry Painter, Director/General Manager of the Raleigh Convention Center and Performing Arts Complex. “Our hope is that the hives will remind our guests and neighbors that impacting change at any level is possible through teamwork.”
Beginning next spring, the hives are expected to produce about fifty pounds of honey each month, which will be incorporated into menu items and cocktails for attendees to enjoy.
Both hives will be maintained by Apiopolis, a Raleigh-based beekeeping organization with hives located throughout the city. The hive structures were designed and manufactured by Raleigh-based Flitch Furniture, who was charged with creating an attractive hive that, by design, improves the health and wellness of the colony.
