Chippewa Valley Bee Expo

A new annual family event dedicated to educating members of the community about pollinators and natural living practices is coming to western Wisconsin. The Chippewa Valley Bee Expo will take place 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls.

The event includes presentations and seminars throughout the day on topics ranging from creating a pollinator friendly yard and garden to beginning beekeeping, and from cooking with honey to developing natural products derived from keeping bees.

“Our Expo covers a range of topics including pollinators, healthy living, and living without harm to the environment,” said Galen Klisiewicz, president of the non-profit Chippewa Valley Bee Expo organization. “The Expo will be fun and interesting to people of all ages and backgrounds, and it’s all part of our commitment to encourage sustainable practices that benefit both people and nature.”

Broadcast journalist Keith Edwards will serve as the emcee for the day’s presentations. The Expo will also feature more than 40 exhibitors, many of whom will give demonstrations at their booths throughout the day. The event will also include youth programs, food trucks and raffles.

Sponsors for the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo include the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, NextGen Power Sports, the Fenno Foundation, Mann Lake Bee & Ag Supply, Hansen Honey Farm, AVEnue Orchard, Abundant Acres Goat Farm, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, Derks Meats, Festival Foods, Northwestern Bank and Hazuga’s True Value.

Tickets for the Chippewa Valley Bee Expo can be purchased in advance at the Northern Wisconsin State Fair website and at the gate on the day of the event. Tickets are $15, with youth 10 and under free.