Bees are among the hardest-working creatures on Earth. By pollinating flowers, they help produce many of the fruits, vegetables and nuts we eat. World Bee Day, on May 20, raises awareness of the importance of bees and other pollinators and the threats they face, such as habitat loss, pesticides and disease. It's a day to learn about bees and take simple steps to help them thrive.
History of World Bee Day
Humans have kept bees for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians kept bees in clay hives, and honey was prized as food and medicine.
Anton Janลกa, born on May 20, 1734, in what is now Slovenia, was a pioneer of modern beekeeping. He became the first teacher of beekeeping at a school in Vienna, appointed by Empress Maria Theresa, and wrote about bee behavior.
Slovenia, which has a strong beekeeping tradition, proposed a World Bee Day to the United Nations. In December 2017, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution designating May 20 as World Bee Day, and it was first observed in 2018.
Why World Bee Day Matters
Pollinators, including bees, help produce a large share of the world's food crops. Without them, many fruits and vegetables would become scarce and expensive.
Bee populations face challenges such as habitat loss, pesticides, parasites and climate change.
There are thousands of bee species, including many native bees in North America that are not honeybees. Planting native flowers and avoiding pesticides can make a real difference for them.
Many popular foods depend on pollinators, including apples, almonds, blueberries, cherries and squash. Without bees, farmers would struggle to grow these crops, and prices would rise. Protecting bees is therefore not only about nature; it is also about food security and the livelihoods of farmers and beekeepers around the world.
How to Celebrate World Bee Day
- Plant pollinator-friendly flowers: choose native plants that bloom throughout the season.
- Avoid pesticides: use natural pest control methods.
- Buy local honey: support beekeepers.
- Build a bee hotel: provide nesting spaces for solitary bees.
- Learn about native bees: discover bee species in your area.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, offices can plant pollinator-friendly gardens or containers, serve local honey, or invite a beekeeper to speak. In classrooms, students can learn about pollination, build bee hotels, plant wildflowers, or study the life cycle of honeybees. At home, families can plant flowers, make a shallow water dish with stones for bees, or visit a local beekeeper. Teach children to stay calm around bees and to never swat at them.
Fun Facts About World Bee Day
- Anton Janลกa was born on May 20, 1734.
- The UN designated World Bee Day in 2017.
- There are thousands of bee species worldwide.
World Bee Day FAQs
When is World Bee Day?
World Bee Day is May 20.
Why are bees important?
They pollinate many crops that provide fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Who was Anton Janลกa?
A Slovenian beekeeping pioneer born on May 20, 1734.
How can I help bees?
Plant native flowers, avoid pesticides and support local beekeepers.