As the cannabis culture gains mainstream acceptance, the annual celebration of 420 has become synonymous with the movement. The 20th of April has been a day of unity, activism, and entertainment for marijuana enthusiasts around the globe. Ride along, while we take a trip down memory lane, exploring some of the most iconic 420 events throughout history.
The Birth of 420 – The Waldos and the Treasure Hunt
The origin of 420 can be traced back to a group of high school friends known as “The Waldos” in San Rafael, California, in 1971. They would meet at 4:20 pm after school to embark on a treasure hunt for a rumored hidden cannabis crop. While the crop was never found, the term “420” became a code word for marijuana among the group, which eventually spread across the United States and beyond. The Waldos’ treasure hunt laid the foundation for the modern 420 celebrations we know and love today.
The Great Smokeout – 420 Protests and Activism
420 has not only been a day for celebration but also a platform to raise awareness about its benefits. One of the most memorable moments in 420 history is the Great Smokeout of 1995. At the University of California, Santa Cruz, the Great Smokeout saw students and advocates gathering, protesting the prohibition of marijuana. This iconic 420 event garnered national attention and helped to ignite the ongoing conversation about cannabis policy reform. Since then, numerous 420 protests and rallies have organized around the world, advocating for the legalization of marijuana use.
High Entertainment – Unforgettable 420 Concerts and World Record Attempts
Music has played a significant part in the 420 experience, with several legendary artists hosting iconic concerts on this day. Let’s take a look at some of the most unforgettable 420 concerts and world record attempts:
- Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa’s 420 Concert (2012) – Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa, two of the most vocal cannabis advocates in the music industry, teamed up for a joint performance on 420 in 2012. The concert, aptly named “The High Road Tour,” took place at the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado and attracted thousands of fans, making it one of the most memorable 420 concerts in history.
- The World’s Largest “Hot Box” (2015) – On April 20, 2015, a world record was set for the largest hotbox at the Ontario Cannabis Festival in Canada. Over 800 people participated in the record-breaking event, filling a 120-foot long greenhouse with marijuana smoke. The hotbox created a unique and unforgettable atmosphere that encapsulated the essence of 420.
- The Marley Brothers’ 420 Concert (2017) – In 2017, the Marley Brothers, sons of the legendary Bob Marley, came together for a special 420 performance at the Kaya Fest in Miami. The concert featured performances by Stephen, Ziggy, Damian, Julian, and Ky-Mani Marley, making it a truly unique and historic event in the world of reggae and cannabis culture.
The First-Ever National Cannabis Festival (2016)
In 2016, the first-ever National Cannabis Festival took place in Washington, D.C., bringing together marijuana enthusiasts, advocates, and industry professionals from across the nation. Featuring a range of activities, from educational panels and workshops to live music performances. This iconic 420 event marked a significant achievement for the cannabis movement. It demonstrated the growing acceptance and mainstream recognition of marijuana culture in the United States.
Milestone Legalization Anniversaries
With legalization of marijuana spreading across states and countries, 420 celebrations have also been used to honor these landmark decisions. For example, in 2019, Colorado marked the fifth anniversary of its recreational marijuana legalization with a series of events. Similarly, Canada celebrated the first anniversary of its nationwide legalization in 2019. Numerous events took place across the country to commemorate this historic milestone.
High Spirits
Over the years, 420 has evolved into a multifaceted celebration, providing a platform for activism, education, and entertainment. Witnessing the acceptance of the cannabis culture, it’s exciting to imagine future events that will further shape this movement. As we look forward to new milestones, world records, and iconic performances, one thing is certain: the spirit of 420 will continue to thrive and inspire generations to come.
