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HOST: Alabama Beekeepers Association (hereinafter ABA)
SHOW MANAGER: TBA
ARRIVAL TIME: Thursday, September 18, 2025, between 3:00 PM and 5:00PM; and
Friday, September 19, 2025, between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
LOCATION: Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center, 1850 Lay Dam Road, Clanton,
AL, 35045
JUDGING: September 19, 2025, Beginning at 10:15 AM
RELEASE TIME: All entries will remain in the show area for public viewing after the
judging. All entries will remain on display until 1:00 PM Saturday, September 20th.
Exhibitors may pick up their entries on Saturday, September 20th between 1:00 PM and
3:00 PM. Entries not picked up by 3:00 PM will be disposed of by the Honey Show
Committee.
JUDGES: TBA
SECRETARY: TBA
I. ELLIGIBILITY
GENERAL RULES OF THE HONEY SHOW
- The honey show is open to any ABA member who wishes to enter one or more exhibits,
except as otherwise specifically provided for herein. The honey show is NOT open to
individuals serving as judges, stewards, or show secretaries, nor to individuals who are
immediate family members of those individuals serving as judges, stewards, or show
secretaries. “Immediate Family Member” is defined as individuals who are spouses,
siblings, parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews,
first cousins, parents of common children, step-parents, step-children, or any individuals
residing in the same residence. *The Black Jar category is only open to honey produced in
the State of Alabama by current ABA members who are paid attendees of the 2025 ABA
Fall Conference.
II. Turn-in / Submission Period(s) & Deadline - Entries must be received either Thursday, September 18, 2025, between 3:00 PM and
5:00PM; or Friday, September 19, 2025, between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. No entries will
be accepted after this deadline.
III. Exhibitor Declarations & Affirmations - Each Exhibitor must sign an affidavit stating that each exhibit he or she submits was
produced by the Exhibitor in conformity with the rules set forth herein. - Each Exhibitor must affirm the inclusion of any image, likeness, or work of any individual
other than the Exhibitor, portrayed in or made part of any exhibit, was done so with the
prior, informed consent of said individual, and that each exhibit is submitted with the full
consent of all parties. - Unless specifically otherwise provided for under an individual category’s rules, ALL
honey, beeswax, propolis, pollen, or royal jelly exhibited, or made part of any exhibit, must
be produced by the exhibitor from honeybees owned and harvested from the bees kept by
the Exhibitor. Any exhibit previously submitted for consideration in any prior honey show
sponsored by the host organization, with the exception of mead, is not eligible for this
competition. - All beeswax items, unless otherwise specifically allowed herein, must be prepared from
pure, unadulterated beeswax, free from any additives or enhancements. The use of
synthetic, artificial, or adulterated beeswax or drawn honeycomb is strictly prohibited.
Exhibits found to be containing any of the above will be disqualified.
IV. Double Entries Prohibited - Each Exhibitor may make only one exhibit per category. More than one individual from a
family or household may submit exhibits across different categories; however, family
members and individuals from common households may not submit multiple exhibits in the
same category. - With the exception of Extracted Honey, in instances where the exhibit may qualify for
consideration in multiple categories, the Exhibitor shall have the right to choose which
category to enter their exhibit; the Exhibitor’s selection will not be overturned by the
Judge(s); and, said exhibit will be judged based on the criteria set forth in the category
selected by the Exhibitor. The Judge shall have discretion to make the final determination
as to proper color designation in regard to all exhibits of Extracted Honey. - Double Entries are strictly prohibited. A “Double Entry” is when an exhibitor has more
than one exhibit placed in a single exhibition category. As used in this rule, the term
“Double” is not limited to two, but also encompasses any number greater than one. The
Show Secretary shall not knowingly accept any subsequent exhibit which would create a
Double Entry. Whenever a Double Entry is created by the decision of a judge in
reclassifying an exhibit pursuant to the rules herein, the following procedure shall apply:
Prior to the judging of any other exhibits in the affected category, the exhibits constituting
the double entry shall be identified and examined by the head Judge; the head Judge shall
make a determination as to which of the exhibits constituting the Double Entry is the best
under the criteria listed for the affected category; the best exhibit of those comprising the
Double Entry will be returned to the show bench, and the other(s) will be disqualified.
Whenever a Double Entry results in the disqualification of one or more exhibits, and after
the results are publicly announced or posted, it shall be the responsibility of the head judge
to personally inform the affected exhibitor of the determination of the Double Entry and
subsequent disqualification of the exhibit(s).
V. Security - Exhibits must be unmarked or identifiable in anyway, except as provided herein.
- The Show Secretary will provide each exhibitor identifying labels to be affixed to each
exhibit as provided in the rules for each exhibition category. The Exhibitor shall be
responsible for placing the ID labels on each exhibit as directed for each exhibition
category, unless otherwise specified herein. - Once exhibits have been accepted into the competition by the Show Secretary, they
may not be altered in any way. - After submitting entries to the Show Secretary, exhibitors may not enter the area where
the exhibits have been placed. The Secretary, Stewards or Judges are the only persons who
may enter the honey judging area. - Judges will enter the honey show area after the close of exhibitor acceptance. This is to
ensure as close to a blind judging as possible.
VI. Food Safety - All food & beverage exhibits must be prepared under sanitary conditions and follow
food safety guidelines. All food & beverage exhibits must be sealed and shelf-stable, or
otherwise prepared and packaged in such a way to be able to withstand spoilage. Any entry
that appears to be unsafe or unpalatable will not be judged and will be disqualified. - Any food or beverage item made with any dairy (or other perishable) ingredient(s) or
components, or any exhibit that calls for or requires refrigeration for proper storage or
holding, should be transported to the honey show, and presented to the Honey Show
Secretary in a cooler, insulated/temperature-stable bag, or some other temperature
controlled container. The Exhibitor MUST notify the Show Secretary of the necessity of
refrigeration or cold storage for any item at the time of submission of the exhibit. Any
exhibit, or component of an exhibit, that the Judge(s) deem unfit or unsafe due to a
temperature-related storage or transport issue will not be judged and may be subject to
disqualification.
VII. Miscellaneous - All exhibits submitted in categories containing the designation “Extracted Honey” are
to be presented in one-pound, glass (no plastic), “Queen-line” or “Classic” style jars; any
exhibits submitted in any other style of jar or container will not be accepted by the show
secretary. - In regard to the requirement of uniformity, items within or comprising any single exhibit
should be alike and matching in every way: jars, containers, closures, contents,
composition, orientation, placement, presentation, etc., should be identical across all
individual items comprising any single exhibit. - For all exhibits which require, or give the Exhibitor the option of using, any display
case, dish, base, frame, stand, or any other exhibition aide, the same should be presented in
the same clean, neat, and uniform manner so as to compliment and add merit to the
accompanying exhibit. - All weight requirements refer to the net contents of the exhibit. For instance, a
16-ounce jar of honey should contain 16 ounces of honey. This does not include the weight
of the container, the lid, the label, or any other packaging. - For all exhibits which call for the submission of a white descriptive card or index card
with the exhibit, any size card or sheet of paper from 3”x5” to 8.5”x11” will be accepted.
Additionally, the Exhibitor may submit multiple cards for any exhibit as the Exhibitor sees
fit. Should the Exhibitor wish to submit multiple cards, they should be secured together by
staple or paper clips. - Allowances will be made for minor damage to cappings in entries in the comb honey
categories, where such minor damage is clearly the result of previous judging in another
show. - For all mead, beer, and other honey beverage categories, any Exhibitor may, at their
discretion, submit a second bottle for chilled tasting. If the Exhibitor chooses to submit a
second bottle for chilled tasting, the Exhibitor must submit two identical specimens, both
suitable for judging. After the exhibit is submitted, the show secretary will randomly select
one of two bottles to be placed in a cooler or refrigerated container. The show secretary
will place the other bottle on the judge’s bench. Both bottles submitted will be evaluated for
the same criteria as a single bottle exhibit. *If the Exhibitor submits a second bottle for
chilled tasting, they must note such on the descriptive card submitted with the exhibit. - Copyright of any submitted recipe, artwork, literary work, or other media remains with
the exhibitor, but the host organization has the unrestricted right to publish images of
submitted recipes, artwork, literary work, or other media in its newsletter, on its website,
and via its social media outlets, plus unrestricted rights to use the same in any related
material for PR purposes. - Where the submission of a “recipe” is required, that term includes the complete list of
ingredients, quantities thereof, and the procedure used to combine and prepare the exhibit. - The Presiding Judge may, based on the number of exhibits submitted, combine one or
more categories into a single category, or divide a single category into one or more sub
categories. - Return/Disposition of Exhibits-
(a) Exhibitors who wish to retrieve their exhibits at the conclusion of the honey show must
make arrangements to pick their exhibits up at the specified release time on Saturday,
September 20th between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. If an exhibitor wishes to have their
exhibit(s) released to a third party or proxy, they must indicate so in writing.
(b) Exhibitors who wish to have their exhibits returned via USPS mail must clearly indicate
so on their entry form, AND provide such packaging and packing material(s) as appropriate
and adequate to ship their exhibit(s) to the Show Secretary upon submission of said
exhibits. Return packaging must include BOTH a self-addressed shipping label AND
sufficient pre-paid postage to accommodate the packaged exhibits. Neither the host
organization nor any member(s) of the Honey Show Committee shall be responsible for any
damage to any exhibit(s) incurred pursuant to return shipping.
(c) Exhibits and other items not retrieved by the deadline posted for pick-up, shall be
deemed abandoned, and shall be donated to the Honey Show Committee for future use or
disposal. The sponsoring organization, nor the Honey Show Committee, is not responsible
for any items left after the pick-up deadline. - The honey show committee reserves the right to reject any exhibit submitted if it is
objectionable in any way. For these purposes, the definition of “objectionable” includes, but
is not Limited to: representations of nudity, graphic violence, profanity, obscenity, or any
depictions of a sexually explicit nature. Decisions of the Presiding Judge on this issue will
be final. - The use of AI to create or enhance an entry in any category is prohibited. An example
of entries not allowed, but not limited to are … AI generated poetry, AI generated
photographs, AI electronic media, AI artwork and 3D printing. It is our intent to showcase
beekeepers’ talents, creativity, and originality in the culture of beekeeping.
Prizes and Awards
It is the intention that ribbons will be given in all categories even if there is only one
entry in the category. However, in order to receive an award that entry must be worthy of
placement. Entry into a category does not guarantee an award. The decisions of the judges
are final. Exhibitors found willfully cheating, or purposefully altering or disfiguring an entry
for the purpose of influencing the validity of judging will be disqualified from the contest, as
well as from any future honey shows sponsored by the organization for a period of not less
than three (3) years.
Ribbons, Prize Cards & Grand Champion:
Ribbons will be awarded to the Grand Champion winner, the Best in Show winner,
and to First, Second, and Third place winners in each category.
Prize points for participants in the AHSTC Judging Program will be awarded to the
Best in Show winner and all First through Sixth place winners in all categories as follows:
Best in Show = 6 points; First Place = 6 points; Second Place = 5 points; Third Place = 4
points; Very Highly Commendable= 3 points; Highly Commendable = 2 points; and
Commendable = 1 point. *In the Black Jar category, only First through Third Places prize will
be awarded.
The points awarded will be used to calculate the winner in the Grand Champion
award as provided herein. The Grand Champion prize will be awarded to the exhibitor who
earns the highest number of prize points across all categories.
Prize cards for participants in the AHSTC Honey Judging Program will be provided
electronically (via email) upon request.
Cash Prizes will be awarded as follows: -In each category, $20 for 1st, $15 for 2nd, and $10 for 3rd
*Except in the Black Jar category, only a 1st Place will be awarded – Best in Show – $100 – Grand Champion – $100
Appeals
After the announcement of awards, any exhibitor may meet with the category judge
to discuss their entry and ask questions. The show room will be open to exhibitors for a
reasonable interval (typically 10-20 minutes) prior to opening to the public to allow for any
appeals. An Exhibitor may appeal the Bench Judge’s ruling concerning their own exhibit in
instances where the Exhibitor believes the Bench Judge misinterpreted or misapplied a rule
in regard to the judging of their exhibit. The Exhibitor must first present their protest to the
Bench Judge who judged their exhibit, and calmly and clearly state the basis for their
protest. The Bench Judge should hear the Exhibitor out, and then typically should explain
to the Exhibitor the basis for their initial decision and discuss the Exhibitor’s concerns with
them. The Bench Judge, together with the Exhibitor, will then bring the protest to the
Presiding Judge. After hearing both sides and examining the rules and the exhibit at issue,
if the Bench Judge concedes an error, or if the Presiding Judge decides in favor of the
Exhibitor, the Presiding judge may amend the decision, award(s), and/or official record in
such a manner as to affect the most just result available. If, after hearing both sides and
examining the rules and the exhibit at issue, the Presiding Judge decides the Bench Judge’s
original decision was correct, the Presiding Judge may uphold the Bench Judge’s original
decision. The decision of the Presiding Judge is final.
The following categories will be accepted and judged at the Honey Show:
HONEY (H) CATEGORIES:
H1a: Light Extracted Honey
H1b: Amber Extracted Honey
H1c: Dark Extracted Honey
H2: Novice Extracted Honey
H3: Infused Honey
H4: Creamed Honey
H5: Comb Honey
H6: Full Frame Comb Honey
H7: Black Jar
BEESWAX (W) CATEGORIES:
W1: Beeswax Block
W2: Beeswax Bars
W3: Beeswax Candles
BEVERAGE (B) CATEGORIES:
B1:
Meads
FOOD (F) CATEGORIES:
F1:
F2:
Honey Cake (pound cake)
Honey Cake (open recipe)
F3: Confections made w/Honey
F4:
Condiments made w/Honey
ARTISAN (A) CATEGORIES:
A1: Artwork Related to Beekeeping
A2: Crafts Related to Beekeeping
A3: Needlecraft Related to Beekeeping
A4: Notions, Potions, & Lotions
A5: Photography Related to Beekeeping
A6: Poetry Related to Beekeeping
A7: Beekeeping Gadgets
A8: Best Bee Joke
RULES FOR INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES:
EXTRACTED & COMB HONEY
H1: EXTRACTED HONEY
Extracted honey is judged in three subcategories: (a) light, (b) medium or amber,
and (c) dark. Exhibitors may submit one exhibit in each of these three subcategories. One
exhibit of extracted honey is defined as three (3) identical one-pound jars, as specified in
rule #17 under the General Rules of the Honey Show. Closures may be of metal or plastic.
Tamper-proof seals are strictly prohibited; any exhibits submitted with any tamper-proof
seal(s) will be severely penalized. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation
with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the jar and lid; correct fill level; uniformity of
the jars that comprise the exhibit; cleanliness and clarity of the honey; moisture content
(only if needed); and aroma and flavor (for off aromas or flavors). *See Appendix hereafter
for notes on correct jars and fill level.
H2: NOVICE EXTRACTED HONEY
This category is open only to exhibitors who have never won a First prize in any
extracted honey category at any prior honey show. An exhibit consists of one (1) one
pound jar of extracted honey, as specified in rule #17 under the General Rules of the
Honey Show. Closures may be of metal or plastic. Tamper-proof seals are strictly
prohibited; any exhibits submitted with any tamper-proof seal(s) will be severely penalized.
Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein;
cleanliness of the jar and lid; correct fill level; uniformity of the jars that comprise the
exhibit; cleanliness and clarity of the honey; moisture content (only if needed); and aroma
and flavor (for off aromas or flavors). *See Appendix hereafter for notes on correct jars and
fill level.
H3: INFUSED EXTRACTED HONEY
An exhibit consists of three (3) identical one-pound jars, as specified in rule #17
under the General Rules of the Honey Show, of extracted honey which has been infused
with one or more added flavors and/or aromas. The judging criteria for this category is the
same as that for H1 (Extracted Honey), with the exception that the use of infusing agents is
permitted. The infusing agent(s) should be removed from the honey, and the honey should
be free of all visible inclusions and debris. Judges evaluate entries on the following:
confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the jar and lid; correct fill level;
cleanliness and clarity of the honey; moisture content (only if needed); aroma; flavor;
potency; balance; and finish. *A white card with a description of the flavoring(s) added to
the honey must accompany each exhibit. *See Appendix hereafter for notes on correct jars
and fill level.
H4: CREAMED HONEY (soft set)
Creamed or Soft Set honey is honey that has been subjected to a manual or
mechanical process to assist and control the otherwise natural process of granulation. An
entry of creamed honey is three (3) identical wide-mouth jars, no less than eight ounces
(8oz.), nor more than sixteen ounces (16oz.) in net weight. Creamed honey must be
displayed in identical, clear, straight-sided, glass jars with one-piece lids. Judges evaluate
entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the
jar and lid; correct fill level; cleanliness and purity of the honey; uniformity of product
within the jar; fineness of crystals; appropriate set or firmness (should be spreadable but not
runny); freedom from foam, frosting, or visible moisture; freedom from added flavors,
striation, or colors; uniformity of the jars that comprise the exhibit; aroma and flavor (for off
aromas or flavors); and moisture content (only if in question)
H5: CHUNK, SECTION, OR CUT COMB HONEY
One entry of comb honey consists of three (3) identical examples of the respective
style of comb honey.
For chunk honey, exhibits must be displayed in straight sided, uncolored, glass,
wide mouth, jars. The glass should not be embossed. Such jars are available from many
commercial beekeeping suppliers. Only one chunk of comb should be in each jar for
competition. The chunk of comb must be in one piece, of uniform thickness, and with a
straight mid rib. Virgin comb with this year’s wax is preferred. All foundation should be
unwired, thin surplus. The cuts should be clean and uniform. The chunk comb should be
cut and sized to appropriately fit the container. The honey should fill the rest of the jar to
the correct fill line. The comb should be oriented in the container as found naturally in the
hive. Comb with watery cappings should be avoided. The comb should extend the length of
the jar. The chunk of comb should account for at least fifty percent (50%) of the internal
volume of the jar.
For cut comb honey, exhibits must be displayed in three (3) identical cardboard,
plastic, or similar boxes. The boxes must be transparent on all sides made for displaying
cut comb. Each box of cut comb should weigh a minimum of twelve (12) ounces. The
chunk of comb must be in one piece, with a straight mid rib and of uniform thickness.
Virgin comb with this year’s wax is preferred. All foundation should be unwired, thin
surplus. The cuts should be clean and uniform. There should be no leaking of honey from
the comb into the box.
For section comb honey, exhibits must be presented in the original round or
square section containers as designed by the manufacturer. The main display panel of the
containers may not be obscured or obstructed in any way. One or more of the containers
may be opened to facilitate the Judge’s evaluation of the exhibit. There should be no
leaking of honey from comb into the container.
Judges evaluate all entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth
herein; cleanliness of the container and lid; correct fill level (where appropriate); uniformity
of all elements that comprise the entry; cleanliness and clarity of the honey; absence of
pollen, brood, uncapped cells, “wet” or “watery” cappings, or travel stains on the cappings;
freedom from granulation; absence of floating wax debris in, or on the surface of, the honey
and/or comb; moisture content (to confirm 18.6% or below moisture); and aroma and
flavor (for off aromas or flavors).
H6: FULL FRAME COMB HONEY
An exhibit of full frame comb honey is one (1) standard Langstroth style frame of
capped honey. The use of plastic foundation is prohibited; exhibits with comb drawn on
plastic foundation will be disqualified. Frames must be shown in protective casing without
lacing or edging and both sides of the comb should be visible. There should be no leaking
of honey from comb into the case. The frame must be easily accessible for judging.
Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein;
completeness of capping; uniformity of appearance and color (including the honey in the
comb); cleanliness of the comb and frame; absence of uncapped cells, “wet” or “watery”
cappings, or travel stains on the cappings; freedom from granulation, pollen, and brood;
cleanliness of the exposed portions of the frame, including freedom from propolis and bur
comb; moisture content (to confirm 18.6% or below moisture); and aroma and flavor (for off
aromas or flavors). Total weight of the exhibit may be used as a tiebreaker.
H7: BLACK JAR
THIS CATEGORY IS ONLY OPEN TO HONEY PRODUCED IN THE STATE
OF ALABAMA BY CURRENT ABA MEMBERS WHO ARE PAID ATTENDEES OF
THE 2025 ABA FALL CONFERENCE. An entry consists of not less than two ounces, nor
more than four ounces, of pure, unadulterated honey. The required jar will be provided by
the Show Secretary at the sign-in table, and the Exhibitor will transfer their entry into the
jar and return the exhibit to the Show Secretary. Judges evaluate entries for flavor only.
*Black Jar entries will not be returned to the exhibitor.
BEESWAX & CANDLES
W1: BEESWAX BLOCK
An exhibit consists of one (1) block of pure beeswax. The block must weigh
between one to two pounds, no more, and should have a thickness no greater than 1.5
inches. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. The block should be smooth
surfaced and free of blemishes, decorations or embellishments. Beeswax should be of a
vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The
preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palate
yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown,
shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of
severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral
notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar,
chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of
commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by
the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The block should be submitted
on a plain, white plate or board (which may be made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any
similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at the Exhibitor’s option, the block may be
presented in a protective display case. If a show case is used, it must not exceed
12”(length) x12”(width) x 4”(depth), and the wax block must be readily accessible for
judging. The show case will not be judged, aside for cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries
on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; finish;
absence of pouring or casting defects including cracks, raised edges, unevenness, rippled
or wavy surfaces, and aroma (for off aromas).
*The presence of the word “BEESWAX” imprinted on one surface of the block shall
not be counted as a flaw or defect. However, any such mark or imprint shall be judged for
casting flaws and sharpness of detail.
W2: BEESWAX BARS
An exhibit is defined as six (6) identical one (1) ounce beeswax bars. Beeswax
should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax
aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the
color palate yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray
or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the
degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey
and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke,
burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that
of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized
by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The wax should be clean,
and free of impurities. The bars should be smooth-surfaced, free of blemishes, and identical
in every way. The bars should be submitted on a plain, white plate or board (which may be
made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at
the Exhibitor’s option, the bars may be presented in a protective display case. If a show
case is used, it must not exceed 12”(length) x 12”(width) x 4”(depth), and the wax bars
must be readily accessible for judging. The show case will not be judged, aside for
cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set
forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); uniformity; casting flaws; and
sharpness of detail.
*The presence of the word “BEESWAX” imprinted on one surface of each bar shall
not be counted as a flaw or defect. However, any such mark or imprint shall be judged for
casting flaws and sharpness of detail.
W3: BEESWAX CANDLES
An exhibit is defined as three identical beeswax (3) candles. The wax should be
clean, and free of impurities. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and
should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range
from white into all natural shades of the color palate yellow. Wax of other color palettes,
especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be
penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred
aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially
those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical
contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in
natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s)
according to the degree of severity of said fault. Wicks must be primed and trimmed to
one-half inch in length. The candle should have a flat base with wicks well centered. One
of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn. The exhibit must
be presented with one (1) free-standing, fire-proof base or candleholder. Items comprising
the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight,
appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the
following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off
aromas); proper wicking; performance; uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail.
The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on
the bottom of the candleholder the candles were submitted with, and another label on the
bottom, or at the base, of each of the candles.
BEVERAGES MADE WITH HONEY
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Exhibitors should be aware and keep in mind, this is a
HONEY SHOW. These beverage categories have been specifically chosen because of their ability
to showcase honey as an ingredient. The influence and impact of honey on the finished product will
be the first, and ultimate, factor the judges will consider when making final awards. The stronger
and more pronounced the flavor and aroma of honey is in the finished product, the greater the
preference that exhibit will receive from the judges. Conversely, an exhibit of otherwise exceptional
quality that does not taste or smell profoundly of honey, will not be placed highly despite the
presence of other exceptional qualities.
B1: MEADS
An exhibit consists of one, clear, uncolored, glass standard 750ml wine bottle of a
mead prepared by the exhibitor. Punt bottles are acceptable as long as they are standard
pattern wine bottles. Tee, tasting, or mushroom-style corks are acceptable closures;
traditional, inserted corks will not be accepted by the Show Secretary. Bottles should be
filled to a point precisely two (2) centimeters from the bottom of the cork. All mead must be
produced from honey produced by the Exhibitor. All entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate
entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the
container and closure; cleanliness and clarity of the contents; correct fill level; color; clarity;
lack of sediment; aroma; flavor, including maturity, body, balance, complexity, and finish;
and influence of honey on the final product.
*A white descriptive card with a description of the type or style of mead and the full
recipe (including all ingredients) must accompany each exhibit. The Exhibitor should also
note on the white card if they have submitted a second bottle for chilled tasting.
FOOD ITEMS & BAKED GOODS
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Exhibitors should be aware and keep in mind, this is a
HONEY SHOW. These food & culinary categories have been specifically chosen because of their
ability to showcase honey as an ingredient. The influence and impact of honey on the finished
product will be the first, and ultimate, factor the judges will consider when making final awards.
The stronger and more pronounced the flavor and aroma of honey is in the finished product, the
greater the preference that exhibit will receive from the judges. Conversely, an exhibit of otherwise
exceptional quality that does not taste or smell profoundly of honey, will not be placed highly
despite the presence of other exceptional qualities.
F1: HONEY CAKE (pound cake)
A pound cake is a rich, sweet, dense cake that’s traditionally made with one pound
each of flour, butter, eggs, and sugar. The Exhibitor may submit one example of a pound
cake baked by the Exhibitor. An entry consists of one (1) cake. The recipe for the entry
must include honey produced by the Exhibitor. Exhibits may NOT be dusted, frosted, iced,
or glazed. Exhibits must be baked in either a tube or Bundt style cake pan.
All ingredients in the honey pound cake must come from the list contained below. The
use of any ingredient(s) not contained in the list below is strictly prohibited. Exhibits may
contain any of the following ingredients, in any amount(s) or combination(s), at the
Exhibitor’s discretion: – Flour – Butter, margarine, lard, or vegetable shortening – Eggs – Baking powder – Baking Soda – Salt – Sugar – Honey – Milk – Buttermilk – Cream – Evaporated Milk – Sour Cream – Almond Extract – Vanilla Extract
Entries are to be presented on a cardboard base, in a standard, unembellished,
cardboard baker’s or cake box; cake boxes with clear windows are also acceptable. All
entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate entries on the following: appearance, uniformity (of
mixing and baking), moistness, texture, aroma, flavor, and influence of honey on the
finished product. *A white descriptive card with a description of the item and the recipe,
including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, & procedure, must accompany each entry.
F2: HONEY CAKE (open recipe)
The Exhibitor may submit one example of a cake baked by the Exhibitor. An entry
consists of one (1) standard size cake no less than six inches (6 in.) in diameter or across.
Exhibits may be, but are not required to be, iced or glazed. The recipe for the entry must
include honey produced by the Exhibitor. Entries are to be presented on a cardboard base,
in a standard, unembellished, cardboard baker’s or cake box; cake boxes with clear
windows are also acceptable. All entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate entries on the
following: appearance, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma, flavor, influence of honey on
the finished product, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a description of the
item and the recipe including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, & procedure, must
accompany each entry. **The Exhibitor, if they wish to, may place their item in a sealed
zip-top bag, or wrap the item in paper or plastic film to preserve freshness; the bagged or
wrapped item should be submitted in the cardboard baker’s or cake box.
F3: HONEY CONFECTIONS
A confection is any pastry, tart, petit four, chocolate, or other sweet food or
delicacy, not otherwise encompassed in another category in this show. An Exhibitor may
submit one example of a confection prepared by the Exhibitor. An exhibit consists of six (6)
pieces or servings. The recipe for the exhibit must include honey produced by the
Exhibitor. All entries will be tasted. Entries are to be presented on a cardboard base, in a
standard, unembellished, cardboard baker’s or cake box; cake boxes with clear windows
are also acceptable. Exhibitors, if they wish to, may place their item in a sealed zip-top bag,
or wrap the item in paper or plastic film to preserve freshness; the bagged or wrapped item
should be submitted in the cardboard baker’s or cake box. All entries will be tasted. Judges
evaluate entries on the following: appearance, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma, flavor,
influence of honey on the finished product, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a
description of the item and the recipe including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, &
procedure, must accompany each entry.
F4: HONEY CONDIMENTS
A condiment is a spice, sauce, pickle, preserve or other preparation that is added to
food to impart a specific flavor, to enhance the flavor, or to complement a dish. An
Exhibitor may submit one example of a honey condiment prepared by the Exhibitor in each
of these subcategories. An exhibit in this category consists of one (1) properly sealed,
properly filled, standard, clear, half-pint or pint canning jar with a metal, two-part lid and
ring band closure. Entries that are not properly sealed will not be judged and will be
disqualified. The recipe for the exhibit must include honey produced by the Exhibitor. All
entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate entries on the following: cleanliness, proper fill,
visual appeal, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma, flavor, influence of honey on the
finished product, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a description of the
condiment and the recipe including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, & procedure,
must accompany each entry.
ARTS & CRAFTS RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
A1: ARTWORK RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
Artwork is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination,
often in a visual form such as (but no way limited to) painting or sculpture, producing works
to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. An Exhibitor may submit
one example of any beekeeping-related artwork of their own composition. The artwork
must be related to some aspect of apiculture, must be the original composition of the
Exhibitor. The artwork must be mounted or freestanding in design. Judges evaluate entries
on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; subject matter, aesthetic
appeal, technical proficiency, creativity, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a
description of the item must accompany each entry.
A2: CRAFTS RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
A craft is a pastime or a profession that requires particular skill and knowledge of a
specialized field or subject. Craftsmanship typically denotes experience, knowledge, skill,
and expertise in making things by hand. An Exhibitor may submit one example of any
beekeeping-related craftwork of their own composition. The craftwork must be related to
some aspect of apiculture, and must be the original composition of the Exhibitor. The
craftwork must be mounted or freestanding in design. Judges evaluate entries on the
following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; subject matter, aesthetic appeal,
technical proficiency, creativity, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a
description of the item must accompany each entry. *If the exhibit is already signed or marked
in some identifying way, the exhibitor may obscure the signature or identifying mark.
A3: NEEDLECRAFT RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
This category includes any decorative or artistic exhibit of needlecraft, some
examples of which might include knitting, crochet, lace, embroidery, quilting, cross-stitch,
needlepoint, or weaving, relating to honeybees or beekeeping. An Exhibitor may submit
one example of any beekeeping-related needlecraft of their own creation. Judges evaluate
entries on the following: subject matter, aesthetic appeal, technical proficiency, creativity,
and originality. *A white descriptive card with a description of the item must accompany
each exhibit. **If the exhibit is already signed or marked in some identifying way, the
exhibitor may obscure the signature or identifying mark. If a label does not self-adhere to
an exhibit, it is permissible to pin or clip the label to the exhibit.
A4: NOTIONS, POTIONS, & LOTIONS
An Exhibitor may submit one example of any health, bath, or beauty product of their own
creation, not otherwise encompassed in another category in this show. The recipe for the
exhibit must include honey, beeswax, and/or propolis produced by the Exhibitor. Entries
are to be presented in a resealable, unembellished container appropriate to the item.
Entries should not be less than one ounce (1oz.), nor more than eight ounces (8oz.) in
weight. All entries will be sampled. Judges evaluate entries on the following: appearance,
uniformity, texture, aroma, tactile feel, functionality, and originality. *A white descriptive
card with a description of the item and the recipe, including all ingredients, ingredient
quantities, & procedure, must accompany each entry.
A5: PHOTOGRAPHS RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
An Exhibitor may submit one example of any beekeeping-related photography of
their own composition. The photograph must be related to some aspect of apiculture and
must be the original composition of the Exhibitor. The photograph must be mounted,
matted, or framed. The photograph must stand up for display; either equipped with an
easel back, or the entrant must provide an easel on which to display the exhibit. Judges
evaluate entries on the following: subject matter, aesthetic appeal, technical proficiency,
creativity, and originality. *A white descriptive card with a description of the item must
accompany each exhibit.
A6: POETRY RELATED TO BEEKEEPING
This category includes the literary art of rhythmical composition for exciting
pleasure, thought, action, or even disquiet by beautiful, imaginative, or elevated thoughts.
An Exhibitor may submit one example of any beekeeping-related poetry of their own
creation, of not more than 200 words or 20 lines, whichever is greater, excluding title line.
All poems may be either neatly handwritten or typed, single or double line spacing. Poems
may be of any form, or style. All entries must be original works. Judges evaluate entries on
the following: subject matter, aesthetic appeal, technical proficiency, creativity, and
originality.
A7: BEEKEEPING GADGETS
A gadget is a mechanical or electronic device or tool, especially one of an ingenious
or novel nature. An Exhibitor may submit one example of any beekeeping-related gadget of
their own creation. The gadget must be related to some aspect of apiculture, and must be
the original creation of the Exhibitor. Judges evaluate entries on the following:
craftsmanship, ingenuity, functionality, creativity, and originality. *A white descriptive card
with a description of the item and its operation must accompany each exhibit.
A8: BEST BEE JOKE
A joke is a brief story, observation, or thought that has a setup and a punchline that
triggers a physiological response – laughter! An Exhibitor may submit one example of a
beekeeping-related joke of their own creation. Entries may be of any form, or style, but
may not exceed fifty (50) words in length. All entries must be either neatly handwritten,
printed, or typed on plain paper. All entries must be the original work of the Exhibitor.
Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein,
subject matter, the set-up, the punch line, overall humorous effect or impact, creativity, and
originality. Entries containing language or material that is deemed indecent, obscene, or
otherwise inappropriate will be severely penalized.
*Copyright of each joke remains with the author, but the host organization has the
unrestricted right to publish submitted jokes in it’s newsletter and on it’s website, plus
unrestricted rights to use submitted jokes and any related material for promotional
purposes.
Appendix
*Notes on correct fill level: -The correct fill level on a “Queen-line” or “Classic” style honey jar is at the fill ring of the jar. The
fill ring is the raised ridge or ring of glass immediately above the shoulder of the jar, and
below the threads. It can be distinguished from the threads in two ways: a) the fill ring forms
a complete circle, without ends; and b) the fill ring will be completely parallel with the bottom
and top of the jar. There should be enough honey in the jar to clearly touch the fill ring,
without going over. -Liquid honey in a circular shape forms a concave surface sometimes referred to as a meniscus.
For purposes of filling jars, the edge of the meniscus should clearly touch the fill ring, without
going over. -When the lid is properly closed on the jar, there should be no visible light beneath the bottom of -A jar of honey being over-filled is preferable to one being under filled.
