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What you will learn in this post:
For the past 50 or so years, the cannabis community has rallied around the term ‘420’. Since its slightly debatable origins in the early seventies, people have used the term to identify themselves and others as cannabis supporters and enthusiasts. Whether identifying as 420-friendly, weed-friendly or another variation of the term, we use this sort of terminology to let the world know that we support cannabis (or at least that we aren’t opposed to its use).
We're here to explain what exactly 420-friendly is and what it means to be so. We'll also discuss the term's origins and some of the best places and deals to celebrate the big day.
What is 420?
420 is standard cannabis culture slang. When someone says they are 420-friendly, other cannabis consumers know exactly what they're talking about.
The term is so ingrained into the cannabis community that it's impossible not to find it attached to industry branding. When people must let the world know they consume and accept cannabis, they often throw a “420” into the conversation.
For the longest time, 420 was used as a slightly subtle way of letting people know they're pro-cannabis. Now, as legalization expands and stigmas erode, commercial venues and spaces are getting into the mix, proudly announcing they're 420-friendly. In today’s legal markets it’s easy to find 420-friendly on everything; from hotels and rental properties to concert venues and events.
While multiple origin stories have made the rounds online, the most widely accepted is that a group of pot-loving high schoolers at San Rafael High School in 1971 would gather at 4:20pm to light up.
So what does being 420-friendly actually mean today? Even if you don't consume the plant, you can be part of the conversation. That's because those that are 420-friendly are accepting of cannabis use, even if they don’t choose to partake.
What Happens During 4/20?
In the past, April 20th was a low-key holiday where the biggest show of support might be a concert or a couple of hazy clouds forming in a public park. Those things still happen but have been amplified exponentially. Depending on your location, you may have access to numerous 420-friendly concerts and smoke sessions this holiday.
If those aren't your thing, there's much more to do than outdoor meetups and music this 4/20.
Today there are ample options, from major events to small indie gatherings and everything in between. The party is not exclusive to the US either, as the cannabis community across the globe gathers to celebrate on the big day with parties, educational panels, and cannabis networking events.
Some activities you could see this 4/20 include:
- Comedy shows
- Films festivals
- Art and history exhibits
- Panels (in-person and online)
- Private parties
- Rallies and protests
- Speed dating events
- Local dispensary events
The options are endless. And if you prefer to celebrate on your own, you’re in luck! April 20 has become one of the biggest cannabis sales days of the year, with many dispensaries offering exclusive discounts and rare product drops for recreational and medical consumers to commemorate the occasion.
The Most 420 Friendly Places in the US
While European markets are warming to cannabis, the US boasts some of the most 420-friendly locations around the globe. Some popular US destinations for cannabis consumers include:
- New York: The state’s adult-use legalization bill contains parameters that allow citizens to consume cannabis at licensed consumption lounges. And with a robust set of planned 4/20 events in NYC, the state is one of the top destinations for cannabis consumers this April.
- California: The movement would not be here without California. As the first state to legalize medical use, California ushered in a movement backed by its HIV/AIDS and cancer patients. While there are ‘weed deserts’ in the state where public consumption is illegal, there are also oases like San Francisco’s Hippie Hill. Discerning consumers can find dozens of events and venues where they’re allowed to enjoy cannabis on site.
- Colorado: Like California, Colorado helped blaze a trail for the legalization movement when it became one of the first of two states to legalize adult use in 2012. The state has continued its forward-thinking approach, legalizing psychedelic mushroom growth and possession in recent months. With lounges and even an International Church of Cannabis, Colorado is a 420-friendly destination for many tourists. However, public consumption remains illegal in the state, and a dearth of consumption lounges keep this from rising higher in our list.
- Washington State: As the other state to first legalize adult use, Washington forever cemented its place as a pot-friendly destination. Still, the state has some ways to go on being as friendly as others on the list. In 2022, a House bill to legalize adult home grow died in committee, and public consumption remains illegal in the state.
- Alaska: Alaska has been considered a leader in cannabis policy since the late 90s when voters made the state the second to legalize medical use. In 2014, it joined Oregon in a tie to become the third state to legalize adult use. The late Don Young – known as one of the driving forces in the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, a bipartisan caucus of 420-friendly lawmakers – served the Alaskan people in Congress until his passing in 2022. More of a tourist destination than a quick 4/20 stop-off, Alaska boasts a variety of 420-friendly locations and some of the most beautiful scenery an 4/20 participant could hope to find.
- Maine: It took the state four years to open adult-use stores after voters passed a measure in 2016. Despite its rocky start, the state has some relatively progressive laws, and cannabis connoisseurs can enjoy a wide array of 420-friendly events, including many conveniently located in Portland.
420 Deals for 2023
Like any holiday season, weed brands roll out the savings in the lead-up to 420. Expect to see deals on top-of-the-line tech, stellar strains, high-end vapes, and almost everything on dispensary shelves. Be on the lookout for BOGO deals, $4.20 prerolls, and discounts on top accessories.
And however you choose to celebrate, have a great 4/20!
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
