World Bee Day
Without bees, food as we know it simply ceases to exist.
About
World Bee Day on May 20 raises awareness of the importance of bees and other pollinators for food security and ecosystem health. Bees pollinate about one third of all the food we eat. Bee populations worldwide are declining due to pesticide use, habitat loss, disease, and climate change. Without bees and other pollinators, the production of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds would collapse, threatening global food security.
History
World Bee Day was established through the initiative of the Republic of Slovenia, which proposed the day at the UN in 2017. The date honours Anton Janša — a pioneering beekeeper born on May 20, 1734, from Breznica, Slovenia. The UN General Assembly unanimously approved the day in December 2017, and the first official World Bee Day was observed on May 20, 2018.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The US has experienced colony collapse disorder in honeybee populations, devastating commercial beekeeping and pollinator-dependent agriculture. World Bee Day drives campaigns for pesticide reform, pollinator-friendly planting, and support for American beekeepers.
KR South Korea
South Korea's beekeeping industry faces threats from varroa mites and pesticide use. The day prompts agricultural and environmental awareness campaigns, and Korean beekeepers' associations run public education events about pollinator health.
JP Japan
Japan has a rich tradition of beekeeping, with native Japanese honeybees (Nihon mitsubachi) valued for their unique honey. World Bee Day highlights the challenges facing both native and European honeybee populations in Japan's changing agricultural landscape.
How to Participate
- 01Plant bee-friendly flowers — lavender, sunflowers, and wildflowers are excellent choices
- 02Avoid using pesticides in your garden
- 03Buy local honey from a nearby beekeeper
- 04Build or install a bee hotel for solitary bees in your garden
Frequently asked questions
When is World Bee Day?+
World Bee Day is observed annually on May 20. The date is fixed each year — May 20 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Bee Day?+
World Bee Day on May 20 raises awareness of the importance of bees and other pollinators for food security and ecosystem health. Bees pollinate about one third of all the food we eat. Bee populations worldwide are declining due to pesticide use, habitat loss, disease, and climate change. Without bee…
Is World Bee Day a public holiday?+
World Bee Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Bee Day?+
Plant bee-friendly flowers — lavender, sunflowers, and wildflowers are excellent choices Avoid using pesticides in your garden Buy local honey from a nearby beekeeper These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Bee Day?+
Global — United Nations initiative.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Bee Day.