There are many myths surrounding April 20th, or 420, as you may know it. Although some conspiracies have circulated about the date itself, most have been debunked. However, what we do know about 420 began in 1971, and now it’s recognized as a cannabis holiday.
The Origins of 420
In 1971, a group of teens at San Rafael High School called themselves the “Waldos” would meet by a campus statue around 4:20 p.m. to smoke weed. Although the group originally intended for “420” to be a code word for getting high, one of the original Waldos brothers ended up becoming a roadie for the Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh and used this term.
According to Time Magazine, on Dec. 28, 1990, a group of Deadheads (Grateful Dead Followers) in Oakland handed out flyers that invited people to smoke “420” on April 20 at 4:20 p.m. The flyer landed in the hands of a High Times Magazine report and was printed in one of their issues in 1991.
Once the magazine began to reference smoking weed as 420, it soon caught on. However, in 1998, High Times acknowledged that Waldos originally coined the term 420. What started as a time designated to smoke weed by the Waldos ended up becoming a holiday where people could get together and celebrate cannabis.
How To Celebrate 420
Celebrating 420 is fun and is meant to be enjoyed as a group activity. One of the perks of 420 is you’ll find some great deals on Cannabis. The best times to bulk up your favorite products are 420 and Black Friday.
Visit A Dispensary
If there ever was a time to visit your local dispensary, it’s on 4/20. There are usually huge savings on your favorite cannabis products. You can find BOGO deals, receive free stuff, or get huge discounts.
This day is a big deal for cannabis dispensaries, and the best thing you can do is ask your local budtender for any special deals. Although most dispensaries have daily deals, the two biggest days for discounts on cannabis are 420 and Black Friday.
Find A Dispensary: Store Locator
420 Themed Parties
April 20, 2024, falls on a Saturday this year, which means 420-themed parties! There are plenty of cool ideas and decorations you can plan. Also, cannabis-infused and regular munchies are a must.
The original idea of 420 was to bring fellow cannabis enthusiasts together; however, those who use it for medical or recreational purposes are welcome. Remember, it’s only fun if everyone knows that the munchies are infused and has consented.
420 Themed Party Ideas
Here are some popular results from the web if you’re interested in hosting for 420.
Conclusion
What started as a group of friends secretly meeting at 4:20 pm ended up as a holiday. Cannabis culture is very giving and welcoming. Therefore, the best way to celebrate the plant that brings us together is to stock up, visit some friends, and toke up.