From humble origins, the 420 legacy has grown into a celebration of global proportions. Celebrated on April 20 each year, the festivities take many forms, though the love of cannabis and community appreciation continues. Today, parties celebrating the unofficial sacred day of weed range from large-scale vintage smoking sessions to headline productions headlined by reggae legends and chart-topping rappers. The day is getting closer, and with more and more states adopting legalization, there are more 420 events happening than ever before. With that in mind, here’s a look at ten of the top 420 events happening across the country.
The Marley Brothers at Red Rocks Amphitheater
Morrison, Colorado: April 19-20
The math here is simple: add some of reggae’s biggest names to one of the most iconic venues in the entire United States and that equals 420 unmissable experiences. That’s what you can take advantage of at Colorado’s famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, which will host the Marley Brothers for two unforgettable nights. On April 19, Ziggy, Stephen, Damian, and Ky-Mani Marley will be performing with special guests Sean Paul and Protoje. On April 20, the Bob Marley Kids returned for another show, this one with Steel Balls, Lee “Scratch” Perry and more. This must be some seriously special nights—a red rock specialty.
New York Cannabis Freedom Festival
Brooklyn, New York: April 19-20
Things should be on the next level at New York’s Fifth Cannabis Freedom Festival now that adult use of cannabis is legal in the Empire State. Featuring music, guest speakers, and vendor exhibits, NYCFF is filled with panels, events, and a performance by Raven International, all against the backdrop of the exciting prospect of seeing where legal cannabis in New York goes next.
The mileage is 420
Denver, Colorado: April 20
Want to experience the 420 in its full glory? Head to Denver to see Mile High 420, which bills itself as the world’s largest free celebration dedicated to smoking cannabis. Located at Civic Center Park, this year’s premium is still free but requires it advanced registrationwhich appears to be worth it given that the event is slated to be hosted by the legendary stoner Tommy Chong And special shows by Rick Ross, Vivio Foren, Walk Flocka Flame, and more.
420 Hippie Hill
San Francisco, California: April 20
Golden Gate Park’s Robin Williams Meadow is home to California’s largest cannabis-free event, with crowds flocking to Hippie Hill to tune in as the 4:20 p.m. This year’s edition is set to feature Erykah Badu’s performance as well as a lot of discerning viewers. And if the city of San Francisco chooses to agree pending permits, 2023 will also see legal sales and consumption return to the event for a second year. But regardless of this outcome, the place will no doubt be filled with the sweet scent of this 420 flower.
Glass House Festival
Los Angeles, California: April 20
Want to get into a secret? Keep tabs close on this page of California’s top glass growers, as details of their plans for April 20th will be revealed soon. Previous activations and surprise spin-offs from the brand have included the likes of Flying Lotus, Duckwrth, Guapdad 4000, Tiffany Haddish, and Eric Andre, so there’s good reason to believe they have something equally amazing lined up for this year’s installment.
National Cannabis Festival
Washington, D.C.: April 22
Not all 420 events happen on the exact date, which makes the party last longer. One great example of this is the Washington, D.C. National Cannabis Festival. This multifaceted event takes over the grounds of the RFK Festival on April 22 and includes a concert led by rapper 2 Chainz as well as educational programming, a exhibitor’s gallery, and an exhibition called “Munchies Zone.” There is even the possibility of catching a file a wedding or two while you are there.
The grass is greener pool
Hadley, MA: April 21-22
Invading Hadley, Massachusetts April 21-22, Grass is Greener Gathering celebrates the 420th and Earth Day (April 22) with a packed lineup headlined by Action Bronson on Friday and Fugees founder Wyclef Jean on Saturday. Featuring three music stages, over 75 vendors, pro wrestling exhibits and hot air balloon rides, GGG is an annual East Coast stoner’s paradise that also makes a point to use its proceeds from ticket sales to support worthy causes.
Pocono 420 / Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival
Where: Longpond, PA: April 22-23
The Scranton-based festival is one of the largest on the East Coast. In Part IX, the PA Cannabis Festival takes place at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, hosting two stages and over 300 vendors for a fun-filled weekend. The 2023 edition of CuraLeaf will feature performances from Bong Hits for Jesus, Space Kamp and the Kottonmouth Kings. This year also offers the option of camping on site for those seeking a more immersive and scenic trip.
420 golf tournaments
Suquamish, Washington: April 22
Agate Dreams in gorgeous Suquamish, Washington has found the perfect marriage with the annual 420 Golf Tournament. Set to return for its sequel in 2023, the event offers the chance to link up with your bowl-loving counterparts to complete a scramble format in pursuit of a cash prize. Naturally, the cost of registration is $420 per team of four, which includes meals and lunch.
Sweetwater 420 Festival
Atlanta, Georgia: April 22-23
The Sweetwater 420 Festival in Atlanta takes place at the Sweetwater Brewery. There’s an old-school rave vibe to this beer warehouse that doubles as an annual event venue. In addition to enjoying a great treat and a good brew, you can also enjoy an array of musical talent headlined by Shakey Graves, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and the Ghostland Observatory. It is a testament to the appeal of this festival that they can get such a great mix of acclaimed artists.
