2026 GBA Fall Conference and UGA Beekeeper Certification Testing

Registration closes Sept 5; Online payment only.

Experience the buzz at the Georgia Beekeepers Association Conference! This can't-miss event features an impressive lineup of experts who will share cutting-edge research and practical wisdom to elevate your beekeeping skills. Browse diverse vendor offerings, connect with fellow bee enthusiasts from across the region, and don't miss Friday's special dinner featuring Hilary Kearney's entertaining talk, followed by awards and Master Beekeeper program testing results. Whether you're a seasoned apiarist or just beginning your journey with bees, this knowledge-packed conference promises to inspire, educate, and energize your beekeeping practice!

Registration looks a little different this year. You will register for the Friday night dinner on a separate form after you register for the conference. The link will be in your registration email. Also, in order for the committee to be able to properly plan to accommodate as many people as possible (and avoid what happened last year when we sold out) we will CLOSE REGISTRATION ON SEPTEMBER 5. There will be no late or walk-in registration. 

Conference Details:

• Dates: September 11-12, 2026

• Location: Ramsey Conference Center, 2535 Lanier Tech Dr, Gainesville, Georgia 30507

• Click here to view the conference program, and here to view the honey show rules.

• Pre-Conference Events (September 10):

  • UGA Master Beekeeper program testing (Certified, Journeyman, Master, Master Crafts) Read more about the UGA testing here.  To participate in UGA testing you must register to attend the GBA Fall Conference and select the testing level as an add-on. 

  • Blue Ridge and Beyond:  A Thursday afternoon excursion to Jaemor Farms and Blue Ridge Honey Company

Keynote Speakers:

Jamie Ellis

Meghan Milbrath

Hilary Kearney

Lewis Bartlett

Mike Evans

• For members who do bee removals, Mike Evans' talk on Friday will count as a continuing education credit for license renewal.

• The website ad auction will happen on Friday, September 11.

• On Saturday, September 12, the day begins with the Club President’s Breakfast at 7:30 AM (only for current local club presidents). The GBA Annual Business Meeting is at 9:15. The day closes at 5:00.

• To participate in testing, you must register to attend the GBA Fall Conference and select the testing level as an add-on. 

  
  

Fee Schedule:

You will have to pay online, there will be no payment accepted at the door. 

• Registration for the weekend  is $95 for members and $150 for nonmembers. If you're not a GBA member, join now to get the discounted rate.

• Friday night dinner, $25 (Separate Registration)

• One-day, Friday or Saturday registration fee is $65 for members, $80 for non-members.

  
  

Testing Program fees (fee includes lunch on Thursday):

• Certified: $90

• Journeyman, Master, Master Crafts: $100

Refund policy: If you cancel by September 5, you may receive either a refund of your registration fee if you ask the treasurer, otherwise you will recieve a credit on your account. No refunds will be issued after September 5.