4010 N Simpson Road, Otis Orchards, Washington 99027 | Saturday 09:00 - Noon |
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Farm Fraîche

Events and Workshops

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Here on the farm, every gathering carries purpose—rooted in the earth, guided by the seasons, and filled with the quiet joy of shared experience. Our events and workshops are an invitation to pause, to learn, and to reconnect—with your hands, your food, and the rhythms that sustain us. Come be part of something meaningful—where skill meets soul, and tradition blooms anew.

Below you'll find our upcoming scheduled events. We're always adding new workshops and seasonal offerings, so check back often—or join our mailing list to stay in the loop.

Bee Package Installation Demo

Bee Package Installation Demo

Price: $25

Dates: April 7th and April 14th (Exact Time to be determined)

Location: Otis Orchards, WA

Join The Demo

Installing your first package of bees can feel overwhelming — but it doesn't have to. Join us for a hands-on, step-by-step demonstration as we install a live bee package into a Langstroth hive using traditional, chemical-free methods.

Event Details

  • One-day event – 2 Options (April 7th and April 14th)
  • 60-minute guided demonstration with open Q&A
  • Small group format – limit 15 attendees
  • Ideal for beginners, hobbyists, or future beekeepers
  • Children age 12+ welcome with a guardian

What You'll Learn

  • How to safely handle and transfer a bee package
  • Proper queen introduction techniques
  • Hive orientation and early feeding strategies
  • How to reduce stress on your new colony
  • What to watch for in the first week
  • Answers to your specific beekeeping questions

What's Included

  • Take-home printed installation guide
  • Bee journal prompt sheet
  • "Next Steps Checklist" for new beekeepers

To Register: Email events@farmfraiche.com with subject line "Bee Package Installation Demo Inquiry"

School Field Trips

The Honeybee Life – School Field Trip

Price: $150 per class (up to 30 students)

Dates: May 15th – October 1st

Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00am–2:00pm (weather permitting)

Location: Otis Orchards, WA

Schedule A Visit

Bring your classroom to the farm for an immersive, hands-on experience exploring sustainable farming, pollination, and the fascinating world of honeybees.

Field Trip Details

  • Weekdays, 10:00am–2:00pm (weather permitting)
  • Grade-appropriate programming available
  • Students may bring lunch for picnicking in the perennial gardens
  • Includes guided stations, honey tasting, and wildflower field exploration
  • Group size: up to 30 students per visit
  • Cost: $150 per class (up to 30 students)
  • Teachers and chaperones attend free

To Register: Email events@farmfraiche.com with subject "School Field Trip Booking Request"

Full Season Beekeeping Apprenticeship

"Keep Bees Before You Own Bees"

A Hands-On Apiary Mentorship & Certification Program

Price: $600 full season or $100/month (April–September)

Dates: April 5th through October (every other Saturday)

Duration: 90-minute classes

Group Size: Maximum 10 students per class (teams of 5 per hive)

Location: Otis Orchards, WA

Apply Now

This isn't just a class—it's a full-season journey into the heart of the hive. Whether you're curious about beekeeping, preparing to start your own apiary, or simply want to deepen your connection to the land, this hands-on apprenticeship offers the rare opportunity to learn by doing—without the pressure of owning your own bees (yet).

Program Details

  • Runs April–October (every other Saturday)
  • 90-minute classes, small group format
  • Limit 10 students per class
  • Teams of 5 care for one dedicated hive
  • Tuition: $600 full season or $100/month (April–September)

What's Included

  • All suits and tools provided
  • Student beekeeping journal
  • Hive cam access (live video stream)
  • Take-home honey and wax products
  • Farm Fraîche Beekeeping Certification upon completion

What You'll Learn

  • Hive setup and seasonal preparation
  • Bee lifecycle and colony dynamics
  • Queen spotting and swarm prevention
  • Mite checks and natural treatment options
  • Wax rendering and honey harvesting
  • Seasonal decision-making and hive management

Certification

Our certification program exceeds WASBA apprenticeship requirements and surpasses baseline standards for Washington and Idaho. Requirements include:

  • 80% minimum attendance
  • Hands-on skills demonstration
  • Written knowledge assessment

To Register: Email events@farmfraiche.com with subject "Beekeeping Apprenticeship Application"