Bee Joy provides intimate learning experiences through in-person classes and private coaching for individuals & small groups. Rooted in a natural, organic approach to beekeeping, informed by science, Grai's classes support the unique experience of tending bees - engaging all of your senses, enlivening your intellect, and connecting you to the nurturing of nature. A two-day winter class is a great way to begin the journey of beekeeping, or advance your knowledge if already tending bees. Seasonal beekeeping classes & hands-on workshops are held in New Paltz. Private beekeeping coaching in the Hudson Valley and New York City is available upon request.
Intro to Honeybees & Beekeeping
$35 per person
A visual presentation of elements of the superorganism of a honeybee colony, and the basic equipment of beekeeping. A brief visit into an active hive in the apiary will compliment the classroom information, followed by a honey tasting. PLEASE EMAIL TO REGISTER
Bee Joy Apiary
538 Springtown Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA
Learn about the different bees that make up a the colony
Why are they a superorganism?
What are the challenges for their survival and how can individuals help.
What actually is honey?
Sunday
August 16, 2026
10 - 11:30
Engaged Beekeeping: Beginning Your Journey with Organic Beekeeping
$225
Winter is the time to focus on learning, and ordering equipment and bees. This two-day winter weekend class provides a foundation for a beekeeping practice that is both intelligent and passionate. Practical and scientific knowledge will be explored, as will a philosophical-spiritual approach, that will enhance your connection to Honey bees, and create a foundation for engaged beekeeping. Becoming a beekeeper is a fascinating experience that changes your relationship with the world around you.
Circle Creative Collective
62 Plains Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA
The Superorganism of the Colony
Honey bee / Human Nurturing
Basic Honey Bee Biology
Communications in the Hive
Beekeeping Equipment Choices
Obtaining Bees
Styles of Hives
Siting a Hive
Bear Fences
Seasonal Management
Diseases and Pests
The awe of beekeeping
Saturday & Sunday
February 21 & 22
10am - 5pm
Preparing Hives For Winter
$60
Understanding the dynamics of the season is invaluable for developing good hive tending practices, including the biological needs and changes of the bees in the hive.
Bee Joy Apiary
538 Springtown Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA
Sunday August 16, 2026, 2 - 4:30pm
To register please email Bee Joy - registration thru website not active.
Sunday
August 16, 2026
2-4:30pm
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Grai St. Clair Rice offers Beekeeping Classes & Coaching in NYC and Hudson Valley
I consider beekeeping a journey that can engage the intellect and the spirit. My work with teaching and writing is focused on planting seeds of knowledge and appreciation, which expand concepts of the world around us. A foundation of practical and scientific knowledge is balanced with the unique experience of engaging with a colony of Honey bees.
There are layers of experience in a heightened relationship with nature, with many avenues of interest. An intimacy develops once the fumbling newness begins to recede and our learned fear dissipates. A relationship with Honey bees also offers us grounding in the moment. The exhilaration of awe has its own rewards.