Model Rules changelog

Changes between published versions of the Model Honey Show Rules.

View rules PDF · 2025.10.24

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2025.10.24

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026.10.13

Reorganize Beeswax color content so that the color guidance is at the beginning of the class, rather than in each beeswax category. Update terminology around presiding judges. Remove general rule about returning exhibits via USPS.

16 changed, 2 added, 1 removedShow changesHide changes
  1. Changed I. ELIGIBILITY

    The honey show is NOT open to all individuals serving as staff, which include Show chairpersons judges, stewards, or show secretaries, nor to individuals who are immediate family members of those individuals serving as judges, stewards, or show secretaries. “Immediate Family Member” is defined as individuals who are spouses, siblings, parents, children, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, first cousins, parents of common children, step-parents, step-children, or any individuals residing in the same residence.

  2. Changed IV. Double Entries Prohibited

    Double Entries are strictly prohibited. A “Double Entry” is when an exhibitor has more than one exhibit placed in a single exhibition category. As used in this rule, the term “Double” is not limited to two, but also encompasses any number greater than one. The Show Secretary shall not knowingly accept any subsequent exhibit which would create a Double Entry. Whenever a Double Entry is created by the decision of a judge in recategorizing an exhibit pursuant to the rules herein, the following procedure shall apply: Prior to the judging of any other exhibits in the affected category, the exhibits constituting the double entry shall be identified and examined by the headcategory Judge; the headpresiding Judge shall make a determination as to which of the exhibits constituting the Double Entry is the best under the criteria listed for the affected category; the best exhibit of those comprising the Double Entry will be returned to the show bench, and the other(s) will be disqualified. Whenever a Double Entry results in the disqualification of one or more exhibits, and after the results are publicly announced or posted, it shall be the responsibility of the headpresiding judge to personally inform the affected exhibitor of the determination of the Double Entry and subsequent disqualification of the exhibit(s).

  3. Changed VII. Miscellaneous

    For all mead, beer, and other honey beverage categories, any Exhibitor may, at their discretion, submit a second bottle for chilled tasting. If the Exhibitor chooses to submit a second bottle for chilled tasting, the Exhibitor must submit two identical specimens, both suitable for judging. After the exhibit is submitted, the show secretary will randomly select one of two bottles to be placed in a cooler or refrigerated container. The show secretarysteward will place the other bottle on the judge's bench. Both bottles submitted will be evaluated for the same criteria as a single bottle exhibit. *If the Exhibitor submits a second bottle for chilled tasting, they must note such on the descriptive card submitted with the exhibit.

  4. Changed Appeals

    After the announcement of awards, any exhibitor may meet with the category judge to discuss their entry and ask questions. An Exhibitor may appeal the Benchcategory Judge’s ruling concerning their own exhibit in instances where the Exhibitor believes the Benchcategory Judge misinterpreted or misapplied a rule in regard to the judging of their exhibit. The Presiding Judge, after hearing both sides and examining the rules and the exhibit at issue may, as he or she deems appropriate, uphold, reverse, or amend the decision, award(s), and/or official record in such a manner as to affect the most just result available. The decision of the Presiding Judge is final.

  5. Changed Beeswax Block (standard)

    An exhibit consists of one (1) block of pure beeswax. The block must weigh between one to two pounds, no more, and should have a thickness no greater than 1.5 inches. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. The block should be smooth-surfaced and free of blemishes, decorations or embellishments. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The block should be submitted on a plain, white plate or board (which may be made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at the Exhibitor’s option, the block may be presented in a protective display case. If a show case is used, it must not exceed 12” (length) x12” (width) x 4” (depth), and the wax block must be readily accessible for judging. The showcase will not be judged, aside for cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; finish; absence of pouring or casting defects including cracks, raised edges, unevenness, rippled or wavy surfaces, and aroma (for off aromas). See note at the beginning of this section.

    *The presence of the word “BEESWAX” imprinted on one surface of the block shall not be counted as a flaw or defect. However, any such mark or imprint shall be judged for casting flaws and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the underside of the wax block, and the second label on the top right-hand corner of the display case lid or plastic bag.

  6. Changed Beeswax Block (large)

    An exhibit consists of one (1) block of pure beeswax. The block must weigh no less than five (5), and no more than ten (10) pounds; there is no limitation on the thickness of the block. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. The block should be smooth-surfaced and free of blemishes, decorations or embellishments. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The block should be submitted on a plate, tray, or board with a footprint extending no more than two inches beyond the edges of the block. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; finish; absence of pouring or casting defects including cracks, raised edges, unevenness, rippled or wavy surfaces, and aroma (for off aromas).

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the underside of the wax block, and the second label on the top right-hand corner of the plate, tray, or board the block is submitted on.

  7. Changed Beeswax Bars

    An exhibit is defined as six (6) identical one (1) ounce beeswax bars. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. The bars should be smooth-surfaced, free of blemishes, and identical in every way. The bars should be submitted on a plain, white plate or board (which may be made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at the Exhibitor’s option, the bars may be presented in a protective display case. If a show case is used, it must not exceed 12” (length) x 12” (width) x 4” (depth), and the wax bars must be readily accessible for judging. The show case will not be judged, aside for cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail. See note at the beginning of this section.

    *The presence of the word “BEESWAX” imprinted on one surface of each bar shall not be counted as a flaw or defect. However, any such mark or imprint shall be judged for casting flaws and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the top center of the plate the wax blocks were presented on, and the second label on the top right-hand corner of the display case lid or plastic bag.

  8. Changed Beeswax Ingots

    An ingot is a quantity of beeswax that has been cast or molded into a size and shape (such as a bar, block, slab, loaf, billet, round, blank, or planchet) that is convenient to store, transport, and handle for further processing. All ingots must have a minimum depth to length/width ratio of 1:3. An entry is defined as three (3) identical beeswax ingots, weighing not more than eight (8) ounces. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Additionally, the use of colored or dyed beeswax is acceptable. For exhibits utilizing colored or dyed beeswax, the wax should be of uniform color throughout, free of marbling, striations, or any unevenness in coloration. The ingots should be submitted on a plain, white plate or board (which may be made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at the Exhibitor’s option, the ingots may be presented in a protective display case. If a show case is used, it must not exceed 12” (length) x 12” (width) x 4” (depth), and the wax ingots must be readily accessible for judging. The show case will not be judged, aside for cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary on the top center of the plate the wax ingots were presented on, and the second label on the top right-hand corner of the display case lid or plastic bag.

  9. Changed Six Matching Pieces of Beeswax (1oz-2oz)

    An exhibit is defined as six (6) identical pieces of beeswax. Each piece should be not less than one ounce (1 oz.), nor more than two ounces (2 oz.). The beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. The pieces should be smooth-surfaced, free of blemishes, and identical in every way. The pieces should be submitted on a plain, white plate or board (which may be made of paper, foam, cardboard, or any similar material), in a zip-top bag. Alternatively, at the Exhibitor’s option, the pieces may be presented in a protective display case. If a show case is used, it must not exceed 12” (length) x 12” (width) x 4” (depth), and the pieces must be readily accessible for judging. The show case will not be judged, aside for cleanliness. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail.

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on top of the plate the wax ingots were presented on, centered, near the bottom center of the paper plate the wax ingots were submitted on, and the second label on the top right-hand corner of the display case lid or plastic bag.

  10. Changed Beeswax Figurines

    A figurine is a small sculpted, carved, cast or molded statue that represents a person, animal, plant, creature, or deity (either real or fictional). A figurine may be free-standing, or be supported by a base, stand, or appropriate fixture. An entry is defined as three (3) identical beeswax figurines, depicting any person, animal, plant, creature, or deity of the exhibitor’s choosing. Each figurine may be no more than sixteen (16) ounces in weight, and no less than two inches (2”) in height, nor more than twelve inches (12”) in height. Figurines may be molded or hand-formed. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. Additionally, the use of colored or dyed beeswax is acceptable. For exhibits utilizing colored or dyed beeswax, the wax should be of uniform color throughout, free of marbling, striations, or any unevenness in coloration. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail. See note at the beginning of this section.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the bottom of each figurine comprising the exhibit.

  11. Changed Beeswax Candles (Dipped Tapers)

    An exhibit for dipped tapers is defined as two pairs of two connected candles (a total of four candles). The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. Dipped tapers should have the last drip left on; the wicks must be left joined. The minimum length of all taper candles is eight inches. One of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn.

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    The exhibit must be presented with one (1) free-standing, fire-proof base or candleholder. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); proper wicking; performance; and uniformity.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the bottom of the candleholder the candles were submitted with, and another label on the bottom, or at the base, of each of the candles.

  12. Changed Beeswax Candles (Molded Tapers)

    An exhibit is defined as three (3) candles. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. Molded tapers must have flat finished bases with wicks well centered. The minimum length of all taper candles is eight inches. Wicks must be primed and trimmed to one-half inch in length. One of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn.

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    The exhibit must be presented with one (1) free-standing, fire-proof base or candleholder. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); proper wicking; performance; uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the bottom of each of the candleholders the candles were submitted with, and another label on the bottom, or at the base, of each of the candles.

  13. Changed Beeswax Candles (Molded Ornamental)

    An exhibit is defined as three (3) candles. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. Wicks must be primed and trimmed to one-half inch in length. The form must have a flat finished base with wicks waxed and well centered. One of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn.

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    The exhibit must be presented with one (1) free-standing, fire-proof base or candleholder, unless the candle is in a free-standing form. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); proper wicking; performance; uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the bottom of the candleholder the candles were submitted with (if required), and another label on the bottom, or at the base, of each of the candles.

  14. Changed Beeswax Candles (Floating)

    An exhibit is defined as three (3) candles floating in a small dish of water. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. Wicks must be primed and trimmed to one-half inch in length. Wicks should be waxed and well centered. The candles should float freely in the water. The dish will not be judged. One of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate).

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); proper wicking; performance; uniformity; casting flaws; and sharpness of detail. *Exhibitor shall bring to the secretary an empty exhibit bowl with a plastic container filled with the exact amount of water the exhibitor wants to be emptied into the bowl at set up. The steward will set up the bowl, pour the water and place the candles in the water at the show bench.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the edge of the dish the candles were submitted with. If there is insufficient room on the edge, the Exhibitor shall place the ID label on the underside of the dish.

  15. Changed Beeswax Candles (Rolled)

    An exhibit is defined as three (3) candles made by rolling sheets of beeswax foundation. *For this category only, the use of commercially manufactured sheets of beeswax is allowed. The wax should be clean, and free of impurities. Additionally, the use of colored or dyed beeswax is acceptable. For exhibits utilizing colored or dyed beeswax, the wax should be of uniform color throughout, free of marbling, striations, or any unevenness in coloration. Wicks must be primed and trimmed to one-half inch in length. The candle must have a flat base with wicks waxed and well centered. Candles will be judged on the criteria herein as well as rolling flaws and sharpness of detail. One of the candles in each exhibit will be lit by the judge and allowed to burn. The exhibit must be presented with one (1) free-standing, fire-proof base or candleholder. Items comprising the exhibit should be uniform in every aspect, including height, thickness, weight, appearance, and performance (where appropriate). Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth in herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); proper wicking; performance; uniformity; rolling flaws; and sharpness of detail.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the bottom of the candleholder the candles were submitted with, and another label on the bottom, or at the base, of each of the candles.

  16. Changed Beeswax Sculpture or Carving

    An Exhibitor may submit one example of any sculpted or carved beeswax item of their own creation. The use of wiring and/or coloring is permitted. Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault.

    See note at the beginning of this section.

    Molded elements are not permitted. The sculpture or carving must be the original composition of the Exhibitor. The sculpture or carving must be mounted or freestanding in design. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness; color; aroma (for off aromas); subject matter; aesthetic appeal; technical proficiency; creativity; and originality. *A white card with a description of the item must accompany each exhibit.

    The Exhibitor shall place one label on the front of the exhibit (centered near the bottom), and the second label on the white card accompanying the exhibit.

  17. Added Important Notice:

    For the purposes of this honey show, this is the definition of what will be accepted as honey.

    Honey is defined as a sweet liquid substance called nectar that is collected by honey bees from flowers and plants and processed by the bees into honey. Any substance collected by honey bees from other insects is not considered honey in this competition. This includes, but is not limited to, honey dew, forest honey, and spotted lanternfly honey.

  18. Added BEESWAX (Category W)

    PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

    Beeswax should be of a vibrant, natural beeswax color, and should have a pleasant, natural beeswax aroma. The preferred colors of beeswax range from white into all natural shades of the color palette yellow. Wax of other color palettes, especially those including shades of gray or brown, shall be deemed faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault. The preferred aroma of beeswax should include honey and/or floral notes. Other aromas, especially those associated with caramelization, smoke, burnt sugar, chemical contamination/adulteration, or other aromas uncharacteristic of that of commonly found in natural beeswax, shall be considered faulted, and shall be penalized by the judge(s) according to the degree of severity of said fault.

  19. Removed Return/Disposition of Exhibits

    Exhibitors who wish to have their exhibits returned via USPS mail must clearly indicate so on their entry form, AND provide such packaging and packing material(s) as appropriate and adequate to ship their exhibit(s) to the Show Secretary upon submission of said exhibits. Return packaging must include BOTH a self-addressed shipping label AND sufficient pre-paid postage to accommodate the packaged exhibits. Neither the host organization nor any member(s) of the Honey Show Committee shall be responsible for any damage to any exhibit(s) incurred pursuant to return shipping.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2026.10.13

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-Oct-09

Added sweepstakes runner up conditional

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  1. Changed Prize Points & Sweepstakes

    Prize points will be awarded to all winners from First Place through Sixth Place in all categories as follows: First Place = 6 points; Second Place = 5 points; Third Place = 4 points; Fourth Place = 3 points; Fifth Place = 2 points; and Sixth Place = 1 point.

    These points will be used to calculate the winner of the Sweepstakes and Sweepstakes Runner up awardsaward. Sweepstakes will be awarded to the exhibitor who earns the highest number of prize points across all categories. Sweepstakes Runner up will be awarded to the exhibitor who earns the second highest number of prize points across all categories.

  2. Added Prize Points & Sweepstakes

    The Sweepstakes Runner up will be awarded to the exhibitor who earns the second highest number of prize points across all categories.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2026-Oct-09

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026.09.24.1

Added functionality to point to a specific general rule.

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  1. Changed Extracted Honey

    Extracted honey is judged in three subcategories: (a) light, (b) medium or amber, and (c) dark. Exhibitors may submit one exhibit in each of these three subcategories. One exhibit of extracted honey is defined as three (3) identical one-pound jars, as specified in rule #17Rule 22 under the General Rules of the Honey Show. Closures may be of metal or plastic. Tamper-proof seals are strictly prohibited; any exhibits submitted with any tamper-proof seal(s) will be severely penalized. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the jar and lid; correct fill level; uniformity of the jars that comprise the exhibit; cleanliness and clarity of the honey; moisture content (only if needed); and aroma and flavor (for off aromas or flavors). *See Appendix hereafter for notes on correct jars and fill level.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on each of the jars comprising the exhibit. The labels should be affixed at the front, bottom, center of each jar, approximately ½ inch from the bottom of the jar.

  2. Changed Novice Extracted Honey

    This category is open only to exhibitors who have never won a First, Second or Third prize in any extracted honey category at any prior honey show. An exhibit consists of one (1) one-pound jar of extracted honey, as specified in rule #17Rule 22 under the General Rules of the Honey Show. Closures may be of metal or plastic. Tamper-proof seals are strictly prohibited; any exhibits submitted with any tamper-proof seal(s) will be severely penalized. Judges evaluate entries on the following: confirmation with the criteria set forth herein; cleanliness of the jar and lid; correct fill level; uniformity of the jars that comprise the exhibit; cleanliness and clarity of the honey; moisture content (only if needed); and aroma and flavor (for off aromas or flavors). *See Appendix hereafter for notes on correct jars and fill level.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the exhibit. The label should be affixed at the front, bottom, center of the jar, approximately ½ inch from the bottom of the jar.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2026.09.24.1

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-07-23.5

Changed Photography size requirements

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  1. Changed Photography Related to Beekeeping

    Exhibitors may submit one exhibit in each of these selected subcategories. An Exhibitor may submit one example of any beekeeping-related photography of their own composition. The photograph(s) must be related to some aspect of apiculture, and must be the original composition of the Exhibitor. Unless a selected subcategory specifies otherwise, photographs must be either 4”x6” or 5”x7”With the exception of Portraits which must be 8”x10’ in size, all other photographs must have a viewable area of 5”x 7” or less in size. The photograph(s) must be mounted, matted, or framed. The photograph(s) must stand up for display; either equipped with an easel back, or the entrant must provide an easel on which to display the exhibit. Judges evaluate entries on the following: subject matter, aesthetic appeal, technical proficiency, creativity, and originality. *A white card with a description of the photograph must accompany each exhibit.

    The Show Secretary will provide each exhibitor identifying labels to be affixed to the exhibit. The Exhibitor shall place one label on the frame on the back of the exhibit (centered near the top), and the second label on the white card accompanying the exhibit.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2026-07-23.5

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-07-23-dynamic-rules

Removed duplicate rules. Fixed Award and Prize section.

10 changed, 1 added, 4 removed, 11 reorderedShow changesHide changes
  1. Changed [show dates]

    Chairpersons: [chairperson namesChairperson: [name], [phone], [email]

    Location: [location name and address]

    Entries Accepted: [days and times]

    Release Time: Exhibitors must pick up their entries between [pick-up days and times]

  2. Changed Prizes and Awards

    It is the intention that ribbons will be given in all categories even if there is only one entry in the category. Entry into a category does not guarantee an award. In order to receive an award, that entry must be worthy of placement. A Judge may, in his or her sole discretion, make or withhold the award of any given prize(s) or placement(s) in any category over which said Judge officiates. The decisions of the Judges are final.

  3. Changed Ribbons, Prize Cards & Awards:

    Ribbons, Prize Cards & Sweepstakes:

    Ribbons, Prize Cards & SweepstakesAwards:

  4. Changed Ribbons, Prize Cards & Awards:

    Ribbons will be awarded to all winners from First Place through Sixth Place in each category, and to all Major Division winners as follows:.

  5. Changed Major Awards

    Major Awards:

    Major AwardsRibbons will be awarded to all Major Division winners as follows:

  6. Changed Prize Points & Sweepstakes

    Prize Points & Sweepstakes

    Prize Points & Sweepstakes

  7. Changed Prize Points & Sweepstakes

    Prize points will be awarded to all winners from First Place through Sixth Place in all categories as follows: First Place = 6 points; Second Place = 5 points; Third Place = 4 points; Fourth Place = 3 points; Fifth Place = 2 points; and Sixth Place = 1 point.

    These points will be used to calculate the winner of the Sweepstakes and Sweepstakes Runner up awards. Sweepstakes will be awarded to the exhibitor who earns the highest number of prize points across all categories. Sweepstakes Runner up will be awarded to the exhibitor who earns the second highest number of prize points across all categories.

  8. Changed BEVERAGES MADE WITH HONEY (Category B)

    BEVERAGES MADE WITH HONEY (Category B)

    PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Exhibitors should be aware and keep in mind; this is a honey show. These beverage & culinary categories have been specifically chosen because of their ability to showcase honey as an ingredient. The influence and impact of honey on the finished product will be the first, and ultimate, factor the judges will consider when making final awards. The stronger and more pronounced the flavor and aroma of honey is in the finished product, the greater the preference that exhibit will receive from the judges. Conversely, an exhibit of otherwise exceptional quality that does not taste or smell profoundly of honey, will not be placed highly despite the presence of other exceptional qualities.

  9. Changed Honey Cake (traditional recipe)

    An Exhibitor may submit one honey cake. The cake is to be made according to the recipe

    provided, and may not be deviated from in any way. The recipe must be followed exactly as written and all entries will be tasted. Absolutely no flavoring agents are to be added to the recipe. Cakes are to be baked in an eight-inch (8”), round cake pan. Cakes are to be presented dome up, unsliced, on a cardboard base, in a standard, unembellished, cardboard baker’s or cake box; cake boxes with clear windows are also acceptable. Judges evaluate entries on the following: appearance, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma and flavor.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the top, exterior panel of the box the exhibit is submitted in approximately ½ inch from the front edge of the box.

    Traditional Honey Cake Recipe

    Ingredients:

    2 cups self-rising flour

    8 oz honey by weight

    9½ Tablespoons butter

    2 eggs

    Pinch of salt

    Procedure: Cream together butter and honey. Beat eggs well and add alternately with sifted flour and salt to the honey/butter mixture. If needed add a little milk. Bake in a greased eight-inch (8”) round cake pan at 325 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

    NO ADDITIONS TO THE HONEY CAKE RECIPE PLEASE!

  10. Changed Honey Condiments

    Honey Condiments (non-spicy)

    A condiment is a spice, sauce, pickle, preserve or other preparation that is added to food to impart a specific flavor, to enhance the flavor, or to complement a dish. Honey condiments are judged in two subcategories: (a) non-spicy; and (b) spicy. An Exhibitor may submit one example of a honey condiment prepared by the Exhibitor in each of these subcategories.

    An exhibit in this category consists of one (1) properly sealed, properly filled, standard, clear, half-pint or pint canning jar with a metal, two-part lid and ring band closure. Entries that are not properly sealed will not be judged and will be disqualified. The recipe for the exhibit must include honey produced by the Exhibitor. All entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate entries on the following: cleanliness, proper fill, visual appeal, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma, flavor, influence of honey on the finished product, and originality. *A white card with a description of the condiment and the recipe (including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, & procedure) must accompany each exhibit.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the jar at the front, bottom, center, approximately ½ inch from the bottom of the jar. Additionally, the Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the white card accompanying the exhibit.

    If the proper canning of an exhibit requires a headspace in the jar that deviates from the jars fill ring, the proper headspace for the product should be used, and the same should be noted on the white descriptive card submitted with the exhibit.

  11. Added Category Placement

    Category Placement

  12. Removed CHAIRPERSON: [name], [phone], [email]

    CHAIRPERSON: [name], [phone], [email]

  13. Removed Major Awards

    Sweepstakes: [$ amount]

  14. Removed Major Awards

    Sweepstakes Runner Up: [$ amount]

  15. Removed Honey Condiments (hot)

    A condiment is a spice, sauce, pickle, preserve or other preparation that is added to food to impart a specific flavor, to enhance the flavor, or to complement a dish. Honey condiments are judged in two subcategories: (a) non-spicy; and (b) spicy. An Exhibitor may submit one example of a honey condiment prepared by the Exhibitor in each of these subcategories.

    An exhibit in this category consists of one (1) properly sealed, properly filled, standard, clear, half-pint or pint canning jar with a metal, two-part lid and ring band closure. Entries that are not properly sealed will not be judged and will be disqualified. The recipe for the exhibit must include honey produced by the Exhibitor. All entries will be tasted. Judges evaluate entries on the following: cleanliness, proper fill, visual appeal, uniformity, moistness, texture, aroma, flavor, influence of honey on the finished product, and originality. *A white card with a description of the condiment and the recipe (including all ingredients, ingredient quantities, & procedure) must accompany each exhibit.

    The Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the jar at the front, bottom, center, approximately ½ inch from the bottom of the jar. Additionally, the Exhibitor shall place one ID label, as provided by the honey show Secretary, on the white card accompanying the exhibit.

    If the proper canning of an exhibit requires a headspace in the jar that deviates from the jars fill ring, the proper headspace for the product should be used, and the same should be noted on the white descriptive card submitted with the exhibit.

  16. Reordered Hero Award sponsored by Hives for Heroes

    Moved from Position 68 to Position 50.

  17. Reordered Appeals

    Moved from Position 70 to Position 88.

  18. Reordered Appeals · After the announcement of awards, any exhibitor may meet with the category judge to discuss their e…

    Moved from Position 77 to Position 89.

  19. Reordered Creamed Honey

    Moved from Position 199 to Position 199.

  20. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Black & White — must be monochrome.

    Moved from Position 248 to Position 240.

  21. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Macro — close up.

    Moved from Position 246 to Position 241.

  22. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Scenic — an outdoor view or image.

    Moved from Position 250 to Position 242.

  23. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Portrait — of a person engaged in a beekeeping-related activity. Portrait photographs must be 8” × …

    Moved from Position 251 to Position 243.

  24. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Exhibitors may submit one exhibit in each of these selected subcategories. An Exhibitor may submit …

    Moved from Position 252 to Position 245.

  25. Reordered Poetry Related to Beekeeping

    Moved from Position 241 to Position 246.

  26. Reordered Electronic Media Related to Beekeeping

    Moved from Position 243 to Position 247.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.

AHSTC Model Honey Show Rules 2026-07-23-dynamic-rules

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-07-13

Use structured request data for eligibility, configured places, cash prizes, Black Jar, varietal honey, Photography, and chairperson contact details.

A detailed comparison with 2026-07-13 is not available, because one of these versions cannot be rebuilt with the current rule settings.

AHSTC Model Honey Show Rules 2026-07-13

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-07-23.2

A detailed comparison with 2026-07-23.2 is not available, because one of these versions cannot be rebuilt with the current rule settings.

AHJA Model Honey Show Rules 2026-07-23.2

  • Published
  • Effective
  • Compared with 2026-07-22
2 removed, 12 reorderedShow changesHide changes
  1. Removed Major Awards

    Sweepstakes: [$ amount]

  2. Removed Major Awards

    Sweepstakes Runner Up: [$ amount]

  3. Reordered Hero Award sponsored by Hives for Heroes

    Moved from Position 66 to Position 52.

  4. Reordered Cash Prizes will be awarded as follows · First Place: [$ amount]

    Moved from Position 89 to Position 68.

  5. Reordered Major Awards · Hero Award: [$ amount]

    Moved from Position 67 to Position 84.

  6. Reordered Appeals · After the announcement of awards, any exhibitor may meet with the category judge to discuss their e…

    Moved from Position 75 to Position 88.

  7. Reordered Creamed Honey

    Moved from Position 198 to Position 198.

  8. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Black & White — must be monochrome.

    Moved from Position 247 to Position 239.

  9. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Macro — close up.

    Moved from Position 245 to Position 240.

  10. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Scenic — an outdoor view or image.

    Moved from Position 249 to Position 241.

  11. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Portrait — of a person engaged in a beekeeping-related activity. Portrait photographs must be 8” × …

    Moved from Position 250 to Position 242.

  12. Reordered Photography Related to Beekeeping · Exhibitors may submit one exhibit in each of these selected subcategories. An Exhibitor may submit …

    Moved from Position 251 to Position 244.

  13. Reordered Poetry Related to Beekeeping

    Moved from Position 240 to Position 245.

  14. Reordered Electronic Media Related to Beekeeping

    Moved from Position 242 to Position 246.

Historical comparison reconstructed from saved published versions. Generated lists, such as accepted categories, show the settings in effect when it was reconstructed.