Macdonald Headingley Recreation District • Program Information • Beekeeper For An Afternoon, Spring 2023 session

Starbuck, Spring 2023 Beekeeper For An Afternoon

Meet Your Instructor

Phil Veldhuis

Phil’s Honey is based near Starbuck, Manitoba. Phil has about 1200 hives producing about 250 barrels of honey annually.

Phil is a lifelong beekeeper who first learned from his grandmother the thrill of understanding a hive filled with buzzing bees. Since then, Phil has worked hard to understand both big and small questions: in beekeeping and in life.

Beekeeping tends to be a solitary and contemplative business, so Phil has lots of time to think when working his bees. As a result Phil leads a double life; in one life he is a burly beekeeper, in his other life he is an armchair philosopher.

Phil has a Master’s Degree in Philosophy from the University of Manitoba. His Master’s thesis explored the idea that the honeybee dance language should be considered a genuine language, not just instinctual behaviour. Phil has been teaching various basic courses in philosophy since 1993.

Part 1

Have you always wanted to be a beekeeper? Here’s your chance to dip your glove into a real beehive. This 2 hour live experience will have you work with a real beehive to find a queen, evaluate the hive and give it the care it needs. All equipment and instructions will be provided. A container of honey or a beeswax candle will be yours to take home at the end of the afternoon.

Equipment: All necessary safety equipment will be provided. Please wear footwear that covers your entire feet and ankles. Long pants and sleeves recommended.

Disclaimer: While the protective gear helps to prevent bee stings, there is still potential for being stung during this tour.

Age Requirement: Minimum age is 8 with an adult. Age 13 and older can be unaccompanied.

Incase of Rain on May 28 - rescheduled to June 4, 1:00pm-3:00pm

Workshop

When Is It?

May 28, 2023 from 1:00-3:00pm

Home Farm of Phil's Honey Sunday, May 28 1:00 pm — 3:00 pm

How Do I Get In?

You can Register Online or by phone at (204) 885-2444.

How Much Does it Cost?

Adult Fee (13+)
Includes takeaway Honey or Candle
Out of District Rate $42.00 In-District Rate $35.00
Child Fee (12 & Under)
Includes takeaway Honey or Candle
Out of District Rate $24.00 In-District Rate $20.00