Are you planning to light up or enjoy an edible this 420? The origins of National Weed Day, if you can call it that, can be traced back to a group of students in California in the 1970s. The story goes that the students smoked marijuana every day at 4:20 PM, and this picked up traction until it became a day of celebration for cannabis enthusiasts.
For some, 420 is a day to unwind, roll up and that’s about it. But the socio-political component, especially in the US, can’t be brushed aside. According to the ACLU, “marijuana arrests account for over half of all drug arrests in the United States,” and unsurprisingly, Black people “are 3.73 times more likely than whites to be arrested for marijuana.”
Recent events may change all that. On April 1, 2022 (not a joke), the House of Representatives put forward a bill that would legalize marijuana federally. It’s called the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act (MORE). This act, as highlighted by CNET, “would require courts to expunge convictions of nonviolent marijuana offenders.” It may encounter some resistance in the Senate, however, as it requires all 50 democrats and a minimum of 10 republicans in order to become law.
But moving on from soul-draining politics, here are some National Weed Day-friendly events to consider in the US.
1. Abundance Of Favor: 420 Paint And Puff
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You’ve heard of sip and paint, so why not try your hand at paint and puff?
This laid-back painting workshop allows you to unleash your creativity without stress.
It’s set to take place at “The Chill Spot” in Queens, but the exact address isn’t provided until you purchase a ticket.
Admission includes: paints, brushes, a canvas, a tabletop easel, tray, water, cup and disposable apron. There is food and drink available for purchase, and you are free to bring your own weed.
You won’t be able to smoke in the house, but you can in the yard.
For more details, check out the Eventbrite page.
2. Sip, Puff, Paint And Karaoke Event
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If you’re in Michigan, this is your chance to be Snoop Dogg, Basquiat and Whitney Houston rolled into one.
As explained on the event page, “tickets holders are welcome to come for either event paint time, but are only guaranteed a seat at the time on the ticket purchased.”
There will be a live DJ, vendors, food, a picture booth and more. The address is given after ticket purchase.
3. Blunts And Booty 90s Dance Party
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Is there a better combination?
Head to The Siren in Morro Bay, California for a nostalgic evening of 90s pop, hip hop and more.
Celebrate Hump Day and 420 by dancing to all the hits which shaped the 90s. Wannabe, No Diggity, Blue (Da Ba Dee), Waterfalls and so on.
You’re encouraged to dress the part. Do you still have those JNCO pants and fanny packs collecting dust in your closet? Bring them out!
The dance party goes on until 11 PM.
4. International Peter Tosh Day 420
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Peter Tosh was a reggae legend who was one of the core members of The Wailers, along with Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer.
Eventually, he branched out as a solo artist, and made his pro-marijuana stance all too clear in his 1976 single “Legalize It.”
Tosh’s family and The Peter Tosh Foundation will be hosting this celebratory event at The Anderson in Miami.
As stated on the event page, “proceeds will support the continuing efforts of the Peter Tosh Foundation to change the stigma around the plant and to aid in reversing the damages caused by prohibition.”
5. Smokers Section
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Phantom Lounge in Washington, D.C. encourages guests to come on out for a fun, 420- friendly evening from 10 PM to 2 AM.
Your ticket includes “entry, one-pre roll and access to the dab bar with free samples.” There will also be herb giveaways, and the list of vendors and live artists will be released soon.
Tickets can be purchased here.
6. Stoner Fest
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If you’re in Atlanta, gather with other stoners for this event hosted by Hippie Stixx from 7 PM to 11 PM. Expect good vibes and energy.
2022 is the third year this festival has taken place.
The event includes contests, vendors, performances, entertainers, cannabis influencers and plenty more.
It’s expected to sell out, so get your tickets quickly.
7. Mecca Super Mario 420
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Blerds in California-this might be a good time to get that Mario cosplay ready.
Can you imagine an interactive Super Mario world? It’s possible thanks to this woman-owned dispensary in Los Angeles.
Enjoy a 20% discount on merchandise, as well as entertainment, raffles, games and more.
You can also purchase a “Level-Up” box which includes, “edibles, flower, pre-rolls, vapes, concentrates and swag.”
Find more information here.
8. Up In Smoke Comedy Show
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Three Palms Bar and Grill in New Orleans is throwing a 420-friendly comedy show.
Mingle with vendors who will be “selling everything you can imagine under a green sky,” according to the event page.
Vendors start selling at 5PM and the comedy portion starts at 7 PM.
Get your tickets here.
