Cannabis festivals epitomise the plant’s diverse celebration, offering unique experiences that intersect with many different cultures and industries. Sure, there are a lot of trade shows and 420-friendly concerts out there, and while those events certainly have their place, there’s an even more vibrant array of marijuana events waiting to be explored. We’re talking about marijuana festivals, of course. 

In the United States, where cannabis regulations and residents vary by state, exploring these festivals makes for a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of cannabis culture as it beats throughout the different regions of the US. From coast to coast, these events provide an opportunity for weed lovers and travellers to immerse themselves in cannabis culture. Discover new destinations, indulge in unique experiences, and celebrate cannabis in all its forms at these ten must-visit festivals across America.

Exploring the 10 Must-Visit Marijuana Festivals in America

Marijuana festivals aren’t just about smoking weed; they’re vibrant celebrations of education, networking, and cultural exchange. When you visit the States and choose to attend one, you can engage with diverse people from all walks of life, explore new products only available in certain regions, and celebrate cannabis’s evolving role in society. Exploring a melting pot of cultures and experiences through these festivals can be very rewarding. 

From bustling cities to scenic retreats, these festivals serve as gateways to vibrant destinations across the United States. By attending a marijuana festival, you can look forward to forging new friendships, creating lifelong memories, and exploring unique aspects of cannabis communities across the states, each offering a distinct cultural experience. 

Attending a marijuana festival is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Below, we’re breaking down the top ten must-visit marijuana festivals in America, starting from the East Coast and ending on the West Coast. 

1. Reggae Garden (Maine) 

Starting in the northeast comes Reggae Garden, a summer concert series celebrating cannabis and music in the heart of Southern Maine. Hosted at Arrowheads Estate in Cape Neddick, this pro-cannabis event brings together the best talent from New England and Jamaica for an unforgettable summer experience featuring great music, consumption opportunities, and a perfect view from the great outdoors.

A tent lit up with lights at the Reggae Garden concert series in Maine at night. Image via Reggae Garden.
A tent lit up with lights at the Reggae Garden concert series in Maine at night. Image via Reggae Garden.

Reggae Garden at a Glance:

  • Location: Cape Neddick, Maine
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: BYOC 21+ with valid ID. Medical cannabis sampling with a valid medical card.
  • Notable Callouts: Local Maine Reggae artists and Jamaican artists
  • Activities and Attractions: Jamaican food and beverage, cannabis vendors, scenic outdoor environment 
  • Years Active: 1 year

Exploring Reggae Garden

Under the canopy of Maine’s scenic beauty, attendees can feel the rhythm of live reggae music through the air, fused with cannabis education, delicious Jamaican food, and drink. It’s an outdoor oasis where people can gather to immerse themselves in the sounds of legendary artists like Marlon Asher, Perfect Giddimani, Soul Rebel Project, Asadenaki Wailer, and Green Lion Crew, all while taking in the breathtaking beauty of this scenic, rural part of Maine. 

Reggae Garden isn’t just about music; it’s about creating a holistic experience that celebrates the spirit of Rastafarian and reggae culture. Guests can indulge in authentic Jamaican cuisine at the Reggae Garden Jerk Center, crafted by Chef Charmaine Davis, who brings over two decades of culinary expertise to the table. The Island Bar offers a full cash bar selection featuring house rum punch, craft beer, cider, wines, and seasonal cocktails to complement the laid-back vibe.

What sets Reggae Garden apart is its commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for people to come together and celebrate their shared passion. With on-site parking, shuttle service for convenience, and stringent safety measures, guests can enjoy the festivities with peace of mind. Each event is held rain or shine under the big tent they set up for each show. You’re welcome to bring chairs and blankets for your comfort and enjoyment.

Plus, with the opportunity to bring your own cannabis or sample medical cannabis products with a valid medical card, attendees can fully embrace the spirit of the event. Each event hosts a handful of Maine’s cannabis vendors, allowing you to learn more about the cannabis industry in Maine firsthand. 

Whether you’re a seasoned reggae lover or simply looking for a unique summer escape, Reggae Garden offers an experience like no other. So grab your blanket, gather your friends or make new ones, and join in for an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and cannabis under the Maine sky.

2. New York State Cannabis Festival (New York) 

A popular destination for tourists from across the globe is New York. While this event isn’t very close to the city in the heart of New York, you can head to scenic upstate and explore everything that New York’s cannabis scene has to offer at the New York State Cannabis Festival (NYSCF), held to mark the end of prohibition in New York. Hosted at the Broome County Fairgrounds in Whitney Point, this festival showcases cannabis culture, craft beer, and women’s empowerment.

Craft beer enthusiasts and cannabis aficionados alike will find common ground at this festival, which celebrates the alliance between cannabis and craft beer. Led by the Drink Like a Girl team, the festival aims to break down stigma and foster diversity within both industries. With a focus on empowering women, connecting to the cannabis industry, breaking stigma, and having fun, the festival serves as one of a kind in a state that legalised recreational cannabis in 2021. 

A woman lying on a bed inside a glamping tent at the New York State Cannabis Festival. Image via the New York State Cannabis Festival.
A woman relaxing inside a glamping tent at the New York State Cannabis Festival. Image via the New York State Cannabis Festival.

New York State Cannabis Festival at a Glance: 

  • Location: Whitney Point, New York
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: BYOC 21+ with valid ID. 
  • Notable Callouts: Local musicians and DJs and cannabis tasting sessions. Special guest appearances from politicians, local celebrities, and industry thought leaders. 
  • Activities and Attractions: Cornhole tournament, beer tents and craft beer tasting, camping and glamping, live music, food trucks, and cannabis consumption opportunities. 
  • Years Active: 1 year

Exploring the New York State Cannabis Festival 

Throughout the day, attendees can explore a diverse range of activities and attractions, including educational cannabis expos led by nationally published female entrepreneurs. These talks make for an excellent way to get up close and personal with New York’s unique cannabis industry. 

But the thing that brings in the most foot traffic is Taster’s Row, where attendees can sample personal use cannabis provided by enthusiasts and learn about different strains and products from cultivators and dispensaries. As for craft beer lovers, the Drink Like a Girl Beer Tent offers a selection of NYS craft beers for sale, complementing the festival’s laid-back atmosphere.

Live music, DJ sets, food trucks, and games add to the festival’s vibrant energy, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Plus, with convenient access to major highways, affordable camping, and extremely comfortable glamping options available on-site, guests can make the most of their time at the festival without worrying about logistics.

The event is a testament to the vibrance of a newly founded cannabis industry, a celebration of beating prohibition, and an empowering place for people who love weed to get together and enjoy a day of food and festivities. 

3. National Cannabis Festival (Washington, DC)

It makes sense that one of the largest cannabis festivals in the United States is held in the nation’s capital city, Washington, DC. The National Cannabis Festival (NCF) celebrates progress in marijuana legalisation, advocacy, and culture. Established in 2015, this annual festival brings together cannabis enthusiasts nationwide for two days of music, education, contests, industry insights, advocacy, and more. As one of the largest cannabis festivals in America, there’s something here for everyone. 

However, one thing to keep in mind before visiting is that even though the festival embraces cannabis culture and consumption, it adheres to DC laws, encouraging attendees to keep their smoking discreet. 

A large crowd surrounding the stage at the National Cannabis Festival in Washington DC at sunset. Image via the National Cannabis Festival.
A large crowd surrounding the stage at the National Cannabis Festival in Washington DC. Image via the National Cannabis Festival.

The National Cannabis Festival at a Glance: 

  • Location: RFK Fairgrounds, Washington, DC. 
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: Cannabis use is not permitted per city law, but it does indeed happen. If you partake, you do so at your own risk. 
  • Notable Callouts: Celebrity appearances, big-name music performances and local cannabis brands and sponsors.
  • Activities and Attractions: Live music, educational pavilions, policy discussions, contests, games, food trucks, competitions, private lounges, and cultural experiences.
  • Years Active: 8 years

Exploring the National Cannabis Festival

NCF is a visual and emotional feast that draws in attendees from all over the world for two full days of food, fun, music, and cannabis advocacy. It’s a highly inclusive event that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate cannabis and the rich culture that surrounds it. 

Music lovers can groove to the beats of headlining artists, while policy enthusiasts can engage in discussions with activists, lawmakers, and community leaders at the Policy Summit. The festival’s educational pavilions cover a wide range of topics, from culinary and cultural experiences to psychedelic therapy and wellness.

Special lounges cater to LGBTQ+ veterans and seniors, providing inclusive spaces for relaxation and connection within the cannabis community. Plus, there’s plenty to explore and discover with over 100 participating exhibitors offering demos, swag, art, fashion, and wellness products. 

There are even a plethora of competitions, contests and events held by the event sponsors. For example, rising music stars can win a chance to hit the stage and perform at the event in front of a massive crowd, and others are designed to find the best cannabis in the city. 

Between all of the events, sponsors, and food and beverage options, NCF is by far one of the best marijuana festivals on this list. With so much to see, learn, and do, you’re in for two days of excitement, new friends, and memories.

4. Legacy Cup (Minnesota) 

Legacy Cup is another unforgettable experience held in the Midwest region of the United States. As the largest legal cannabis competition, consumption event and festival in the Midwest, it was a no-brainer to include it in this list. Established in 2019, Legacy Cup is a massive annual gathering attracting over 10,000 cannabis lovers to the Surly Festival Field in Minnesota to celebrate cannabis culture, art, brands, and more. Best of all, it’s BYOC and offers great competitions, activities, and music to get the vibes just right. 

People walking through the gate to enter the Legacy Cup in Minnesota. Image via the Legacy Cup.
People walking through the gate to enter the Legacy Cup in Minnesota. Image via the Legacy Cup.

Legacy Cup at a Glance: 

  • Location: Surly Festival Field, Minnesota
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: BYOC and glass to enjoy in the designated sesh lounge area. 21+ to enter and enjoy. 
  • Notable Callouts: Live performances, celebrity appearances, popular Midwest brands and local vendors. 
  • Activities and Attractions: Cannabis judging and awards in several categories, competitions and games, interactive art installations, food trucks, and education pavilion. 
  • Years Active: 4 years 

Exploring the Legacy Cup

From the moment you arrive at Surly Festival Field, you’ll be greeted by the pulsating energy of like-minded individuals coming together to honour the plant and the culture it inspires. The best part is this event is strictly celebrating cannabis— so there will be no alcohol served. The event was born from the desire to encourage midwesterners to engage in thought-provoking conversations or simply share a smoke with friends old and new. 

As you walk through the grounds, explore interactive art displays designed by local artists, and engage in educational conversations, you can mix and mingle with over 125 vendors showcasing the latest products and innovations in Minnesota’s cannabis scene. From artisanal glassware to THC-infused treats, each booth offers a glimpse into the diversity and creativity of the Midwest cannabis community. 

Like most events, the Legacy Cup features live musical performances from renowned local artists and celebrities like Slug from Atmosphere. Guests can also feast on delectable offerings from local food trucks. But the Legacy Cup is more than just a festival—it’s a testament to the love for the culture cannabis fosters. It’s a space for learning, discovery, and empowerment within the cannabis community. 

Whether you’re competing in friendly competitions, like Best Joint Rolling Skills, Best Bong Rip, and Best Dab Hit, or simply just stopping by to see what the judges have to say about the best homegrown weed, dabs, and edibles in both THC and CBD events, you’re sure to find something fun, entertaining, and connecting. The Legacy Cup invites you to be a part of something extraordinary.

5. Mile High 420 Festival (Colorado) 

As one of the first states to legalise cannabis, you can only imagine how much the plant is celebrated in Colorado. The Mile High 420 Festival, held in Denver, is a bonafide party, complete with music all hours of the day and into the night and the chance to rub elbows with cannabis industry pioneers. It’s a full-fledged music festival that brings thousands together for the love of the plant and the city. Best of all, the event is entirely free. You just have to register to let them know you’re coming. 

A man with dreads, sitting on the grass and smoking a blunt, at the Mile High 420 Festival in Denver, Colorado. Image via Mile High 420 Festival.
A man with dreads, sitting on the grass and smoking a blunt, at the Mile High 420 Festival in Denver, Colorado. Image via Mile High 420 Festival.

Mile High 420 Festival at a Glance: 

  • Location: Civic Center Park, Denver, CO  
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: Public consumption of marijuana is prohibited under Colorado state law. If you choose to smoke, you do so at your own risk. 
  • Notable Callouts: Famous musicians and celebrities, among other sponsors and vendors from the Colorado cannabis industry.
  • Activities and Attractions: Denver’s best food trucks, musical performances into the night, unique photo opportunities, and craft beer/alcohol vendors. 
  • Years Active: 2 years 

Exploring the Mile High 420 Festival 

The Mile High 420 Festival, established in 2022, was brought to light as a testament to Colorado’s pioneering role in the cannabis movement. Each year, it attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe to revel in the spirit of liberation and celebration. With Denver’s iconic Civic Center Park as its backdrop, the festival transforms into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and camaraderie. The free event is held in the city centre in a beautiful park that serves as the grounds holding concertgoers, event sponsors and vendors, art installations, photo opportunities, and food and drink. 

The festival reimagines the 4/20 holiday as something to be celebrated every day. Normally held on April 20th, the event has evolved into a symbol of Colorado’s progressive approach to legalisation, drawing both advocates and aficionados into a beautiful backdrop to share a once-in-a-lifetime experience with friends and strangers alike. VIP options are also available, giving visitors the chance to get up close and personal to the music. 

As guests sway to the rhythm of live performances from major artists or celebrities and savour the culinary delights offered by Denver’s finest food trucks, they’re immersed in an atmosphere of unbridled love and acceptance.

As the sun sets over Civic Center Park and the music fills the air, attendees are reminded of the remarkable journey that brought them to this moment—a journey marked by resilience, progress, and the unwavering spirit of advocacy. In the Mile High 420 Festival, you’ll have the time of your life and leave feeling the legacy of Colorado’s cannabis culture and the boundless possibilities it represents for the future.

6. Errl Cup (Arizona)

The Errl Cup is one of a kind and works hard to ensure medical patients and recreational users are only enjoying the best of the best medicine the state has to offer. Established back in 2015, the free event was born out of a desire to ensure safe access to clean and consistent medicine, fostering community and accountability within the cannabis industry. Attracting thousands at each bi-annual event, the Errl Cup offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore new brands, experience live music, and try Arizona’s best food. 

Booths set up on the grass on a sunny day at the Errl Cup in Arizona. Image via the Errl Cup.
Booths set up on the grass at the Errl Cup in Arizona. Image via the Errl Cup.

Errl Cup at a Glance: 

  • Location: Mesa, AZ 
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: 21+ BYOC. Medical patients with a valid medical card from any state may also partake. 
  • Notable Callouts: Dispensaries and other industry professionals, local musicians, and hundreds of exhibitors, brands, and medical caregivers. 
  • Activities and Attractions: Vape & Bong Wars, local food trucks, competitions judging over 20 categories, and live music. 
  • Years Active: 9 years

Exploring the Errl Cup 

The Errl Cup stands as a testament to the evolution of Arizona’s medical marijuana landscape, offering a unique blend of patient appreciation, education, and advocacy. Through its innovative secret shopping program, the Errl Cup maintains a rigorous standard of excellence, ensuring that only the highest-quality cannabis products earn recognition. More or less, the event secret shops cannabis products from all over the state and then judges them accordingly. Winners receive a trophy or an award and the credibility to say that their products are excellent, even when selected at random. 

Beyond its awards and accolades, the Errl Cup is a platform for education and awareness, providing attendees with access to invaluable resources and information about responsible medication practices. Collaborations with organisations like If You Medicate Designate underscore the event’s commitment to promoting safe and conscientious cannabis consumption and not driving under the influence. 

At the heart of the Errl Cup is a celebration of community, diversity, and innovation. The festival pulses with energy and excitement, from the bustling vendor booths to the electrifying performances on the grand stage at the 6-acre event centre. It’s a gathering where patients and advocates come together to share their experiences, forge connections, and champion the future of cannabis in Arizona and beyond. Best of all— you’re allowed to share and enjoy cannabis freely. 

With each passing year, the Errl Cup continues to grow in scope and impact, leaving an indelible mark on Arizona’s cannabis culture. As attendees converge to celebrate excellence, advocacy, and camaraderie, they’re reminded of the profound potential of cannabis to enrich lives and foster positive change.

7. Kushstock (California)

Cannabis has been legal in some form in California since 1996 when they legalised medical marijuana. A decade later, the state fully legalised recreational cannabis, and thus, Kushstock was born. This event is a celebration of all the years of advocacy that made California the cultural hub for cannabis that it is today. Kushstock is a free cannabis event with VIP options that celebrates all things cannabis, including music, local brands, artists, and vendors. You can even pre-order cannabis for pickup upon your arrival at the event. 

Musical performers at Kushstock in California playing for a large crowd on a stage at sunset. Image via Kushstock.
Musical performers on stage at Kushstock in California playing for a large crowd. Image via Kushstock.

Kushstock at a Glance: 

  • Location: Adelanto, California
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: BYOC and glass 21+. Cannabis may also be purchased at the event or pre-ordered for pickup upon arrival.  
  • Notable Callouts: Renowned artists, comedians, leading brands, food and drink, vendors, and top-tier musicians.
  • Activities and Attractions: Insightful seminars, shopping, live performances, seeds and cannabis for sale, interactive art, and food trucks.
  • Years Active: 8 years 

Exploring Kushstock 

Kushstock isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of freedom, creativity, and community. From the moment you step foot into the Adelanto Stadium Event Center, you’ll be immersed in the vibrant spirit of cannabis culture. With the beautiful state of California as its backdrop, you’ll immediately feel at ease upon your arrival. 

After you settle in, you can explore rows of booths showcasing the latest strains, concentrates, and edibles from California’s best brands. But Kushstock is more than just a marketplace – it’s a platform for education and advocacy. You can attend informative seminars and demonstrations to deepen your understanding of cannabis, connect with experts, and learn about the plant’s medicinal and recreational benefits.

But the real magic sets in later. As the sun sets, the festival comes alive with live music performances, art installations, and interactive experiences. Dance to the beats of top-tier musicians, marvel at talented artists creating cannabis-inspired masterpieces and forge connections with people like you who share your passion.

At Kushstock, every moment is an opportunity to celebrate the unique culture and community surrounding cannabis. Held every year, this California cannabis festival is perfect for a day filled with good vibes, great music, and the best that the cannabis industry has to offer. 

8. Grass Lands at Outside Lands (California)

If you like electronic music and live DJs, crazy art installations, and the chance to enjoy cannabis freely while you enjoy the festivities, Grass Lands is for you. Grass Lands is an interactive section of Outside Lands, which is well-known for its electric, community-driven experiences. The energy here is one of a kind, which is something you’d expect from the liveliness of California. Presented by Weedmaps, this section of the 21+ event is perfect for consumption opportunities, sampling California’s finest weed, and meeting new people in a relaxed atmosphere charged with upbeat music.

A view of Grass Lands--a curated cannabis experience at Outside Lands in San Francisco, California. Image via Outside Lands & Alive Coverage.
A view of Grass Lands–a curated cannabis experience at Outside Lands in San Francisco, California. Image via Outside Lands & Alive Coverage.

Grass Lands at a Glance: 

  • Location: San Francisco, California
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: BYOC 21+ with the option to purchase within the venue.
  • Notable Callouts: Countless brand sponsors, vendors, growers, industry leaders, and live artists and musicians.
  • Activities and Attractions: Purchase cannabis, tour art installations for photo opportunities, live DJ sets, delicious comfort food, demonstrations, panel discussions, and exclusive brand collaborations.
  • Years Active: 4 years 

Exploring Grass Lands

Grass Lands is truly a sight to behold. Even though it’s only a large part of a bigger music and arts festival, it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and innovation— encouraging industry leaders to participate and bringing together the state’s finest artists and legendary musicians. From the moment you enter the SoPo area (where Grass Lands is located), you’ll be fully immersed in your own little bubble, one filled with people like you. 

Here, you can explore a curated selection of top-tier cannabis products from some of the most respected brands in the industry, and take some home for yourself. Whether you’re seeking discounted buds from OG growers or flower with stellar THC levels, the Grass Lands section of this festival has something to delight everyone. Edibles, vapes, and more can be found for sale here, but if you’re good at making friends, you’ll have the chance to try almost everything. The people at this festival are incredibly friendly and open-minded. 

Like most cannabis events, Grass Lands also offers areas for cannabis education and advocacy. You can attend discussions on social equity, learn about the latest developments in the cannabis industry, and connect with leaders and legends who are shaping the future of cannabis while visiting all of the California cannabis booths lining up the Farmer’s Market at Grass Lands.

But ultimately, even as a section of a larger festival, attending Grass Lands is as cultural as it gets. While enjoying the live music, food, and events at Outside Lands, the air is charged with electric music, and there is so much gorgeous art to explore and interact with. Checking out the Grass Lands section gives you the chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the journey as you explore the vibrant world of cannabis culture. Here, you’re always invited to the party.

9. Seattle Hempfest (Washington) 

For our final West Coast event, we bring you the oldest cannabis festival in the United States. Seattle Hempfest, known as the “Original Free Speech Protestival,” has been running since 1991 as a legal and protected event under the United States Constitution, upholding the rights to freedom of assembly and speech. It’s one of a kind not only for its history but also for its unique advocacy spin on a classic and entertaining festival. 

While cannabis use isn’t permitted at the festival, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience where you’ll get to meet real people still fighting the good fight for cannabis reform. Even though cannabis has been legal in Washington since 2012, there’s a long road ahead to making good on the bad that happened in the past. Seattle Hempfest is a social festival that aims to encourage just that. 

A band performing on stage in front of a large audience at Seattle Hempfest. Image via Seattle Hempfest.
A band performing on stage in front of an audience at Seattle Hempfest. Image via Seattle Hempfest.

Seattle Hempfest at a Glance: 

  • Location: Seattle, Washington 
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: While the event advocates for cannabis law reform, all local, state, and federal laws are enforced, including those related to drug-free zones within Seattle parks. If you choose to consume cannabis at this event, you do so at your own risk. 
  • Notable Callouts: Keynote speakers from all walks of life are coming together to fight for cannabis reform, and famous artists, speakers, and vendors are dedicated to cannabis advocacy and education.
  • Activities and Attractions: This unique event combines a political rally, concert, and arts and crafts fair. It also features vendors, sponsors, six live music and speaker stages, merchandise and food vendors, and VIP events
  • Years Active: 33 years, though the pandemic hit it hard and they have been on hiatus since 2020. They are set to return in 2024, according to their website. 

Exploring Seattle Hempfest 

The COVID-19 pandemic hit this nonprofit, grassroots festival hard, and they’ve skipped the last few years but intend to be back this year. Part of the reason is how good the event has been and how many people have visited it every year since the first one in 1991. This free event is usually held annually around Seattle, though over the years, the constant change of restrictions has moved the event around quite a bit. It has an incredibly rich history

Seattle Hempfest is a movement. For over three decades, this annual event has served as a platform for grassroots activism, bringing together advocates, artists, and enthusiasts to push for meaningful change in cannabis laws. They take a unique approach by encouraging real people to tell real stories, as keynote speakers from all over the world from many different social, economic, and belief-system backgrounds all come together to share their stories and inspire change. 

However, it’s still a roaring good time. With huge artists playing at the event over the years, there has always been infectious energy in the form of live music performances on six massive stages, as well as the tantalising aromas of Seattle’s finest food vendors. But at its core, what sets Seattle Hempfest apart is its unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and peaceful protest. Attendees can engage in thoughtful discourse, listen to inspiring speakers, and participate in advocacy efforts aimed at challenging outdated cannabis policies.

But it doesn’t stop there. Seattle Hempfest embodies the spirit of community and collaboration. Volunteers, artists, and vendors unite to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone is united by their shared passions. You can buy unique art from local artists, as well as merchandise and glass, all of which support the locals and the nonprofit event as a whole. Out of all of the events on this list, this one might be the most meaningful to you if policy, change, human connection and advocacy are valuable to you. 

We’re looking forward to hearing of its triumphant return later this year. 

10. High Times Cannabis Cup (Nationwide) 

Last but certainly not least, we have the High Times Cannabis Cup. For anyone who hasn’t nailed down a state they want to visit or their travel dates, these events are all over the map throughout the year, allowing anyone visiting a legal market to explore the cannabis industry and its culture. 

The High Times Cannabis Cup stands as the pinnacle of cannabis celebration, competition, and camaraderie, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to revel in all things weed. Founded in Amsterdam in 1988 by former High Times editor Steve Hager, the Cannabis Cup has evolved into a globally recognised championship of the best cannabis products on the planet. Today, the Cup serves as a gathering place for the cannabis community, featuring competitions, instructional seminars, expositions, tons of celebrity appearances, concerts, consumption opportunities, and more.

A large crowd at the High Times Cannabis Cup in Denver, Colorado taken with a fish eye lens during the day. Image via the High Times.
A large crowd at the High Times Cannabis Cup in Denver, Colorado. Image via the High Times.

The Cannabis Cup at a Glance:

  • Location: Legal states across the US, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Michigan, Illinois, Oklahoma, Oregon, Massachusetts, Nevada, Washington, and New Mexico. 
  • Cannabis Consumption Rules: Recreational states allow smoking for adults 21 and over; medical states require a valid medical card for entry into smoking areas. BYOC and smoking accessories. 
  • Activities and Attractions: Competitions, educational seminars, product showcases, live performances, immersive experiences, and more.
  • Years Active: Since 1988, evolving into a globally recognised championship.

Exploring the Cannabis Cup

What sets the Cannabis Cup apart is its immersive and inclusive atmosphere. It’s not just a trade show where you can smoke weed; it’s an opportunity for over 30,000 attendees to learn from the pros, indulge in live grow-room tours with renowned cultivation experts, and savour kitchen demos with cannabis chefs. From dab rig expositions to topical massage spas, the Cup offers an array of immersive experiences that cater to every cannabis lover. 

At the heart of the Cannabis Cup lies the competition, where the best of the best brands in each state’s respective cannabis industry compete for the coveted Cannabis Cup trophy. Entries are judged by industry experts, newcomers, and everyone in between, with scores based on aroma, taste, aesthetics, the high, and more. With categories ranging from flowers and concentrates to edibles and vape cartridges, the competition showcases the diversity and innovation of each state’s cannabis industry. 

All that said, you won’t find better weed anywhere else. The Cannabis Cup is designed to bring the best of the best brands, growers, and processors in the state it’s being held, so you’re in for an experience of the absolute best each state has to offer when you visit. It’s a great place to learn about a state’s weed scene and an even better place to have a good time experiencing cannabis like a true connoisseur.

Conclusion

As we’ve journeyed through the top ten cannabis festivals, spanning the United States from coast to coast, we’ve discovered unique and vibrant experiences that showcase the diversity of cannabis cultures all across America. From the Mile High 420 Festival in Colorado to the National Cannabis Festival in Washington, DC, each of these events provides opportunities for education, networking, and unforgettable fun.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Denver, the scenic landscapes of Seattle or Maine, or relishing in the newer cannabis industries found in the Midwest, these festivals invite you to immerse yourself in new cultures and connect with passionate cannabis lovers like you from around the globe. 

As you attend these visit-worthy events, we encourage you to share your experiences and insights. Let us know your thoughts on these festivals, or recommend others you’ve enjoyed in different states. Your voice matters, and your stories contribute to the spread of cannabis and its cultures past national and international borders.