20 May 2024
By Kelly Jackson and Beth Warman
Two celebrations appear on our calendars in May:
World Bee Day and Cocktail Day
On May 20th we celebrate World Bee Day, serving as a reminder of the important role bees play in our ecosystems and food production. As essential pollinators, bees are responsible for the reproduction of countless plant species, including many of our fruits and vegetables. With the threats facing bee populations, from habitat loss to pesticide use and climate change, World Bee Day calls for action to protect and promote sustainable practices that support bee populations. Whether through planting bee-friendly gardens, advocating for pesticide reduction, or supporting local beekeepers, everyone can contribute to bee conservation efforts.
At the other end of the spectrum, May 13th marked World Cocktail Day, a celebration of the creativity of mixology. Cocktails (or mocktails) have long been a symbol of social gatherings, creativity, and enjoyment. Whether you prefer your martini with passion fruit or extra olives, with or without the alcohol, there is a cocktail and mocktail to suit everyone.
While World Bee Day and Cocktail Day may seem unrelated at first glance, there is a synergy between the two. Both celebrations invite us to pause and appreciate the wonders of nature and human creativity. As we raise our cocktail glasses, let’s also raise awareness for bee conservation and sustainable practices.
Some bee-friendly cocktail tips:
Consider incorporating bee-friendly ingredients, such as honey or elderflower presse, as a nod to World Bee Day.
Choosing organic spirits and locally sourced ingredients can support sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both bees and the environment.
For an equally delightful vegan alternative, use vegan honey with apple concentrate. (The bees would have pollinated the apple trees).
Grow your own herbs or fruit to add to your cocktails – extra fresh and great for the bees!
Take a look at our recipes below or get creative and mix your own.

The Bees Knees
Ingredients
2 tsp honey (or vegan honey)
50ml gin (use alcohol free for a mocktail)
25ml lemon juice
Ice
Lemon zest
METHOD:
Mix 1 tsp of freshly boiled water with the honey until smooth. Transfer to a cocktail shaker with the gin, lemon juice and ice. Shake until cold. Strain into a glass and garnish with lemon zest….. Enjoy!

Rosemary Buzz
Ingredients
1/2 cup sparkling water
1/2 cup apple juice
1oz honey or vegan honey
1/2oz fresh lemon juice
1 spring of fresh rosemary
Ice cubes
METHOD
In a glass, mix the fresh rosemary with honey and lemon juice. Add ice cubes to the glass, pour in the sparkling water and apple juice. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.