420 is one of the most well-recognized symbols of marijuana use, but not many people are familiar with its interesting history and meaning. Here’s the story behind 420 and how it became an icon of cannabis culture.
The Number 420
When talking about the number 420, most people would associate it with April 20 or 4/20, which is recognized as an unofficial weed holiday. But there are other notable connotations, such as ”420 friendly”, referring to certain places, events or even people who accept the use of marijuana.
4:20 is used as a time to smoke weed, which is also connected to the origin of the term itself. At the end of the day, the term 420 is globally recognized as a general symbol of cannabis and cannabis consumption.
How 420 Came to Be
The term 420 was around even before the widespread cannabis legalization in the U.S. According to a report by High Times Magazine, five high school students, also known as ”Waldos” began their quest in the early 1970s to find an abandoned cannabis crop, planted by the U.S Coast Guard on Point Reyes Peninsula. Waldos picked 4:20 as a meeting time, before going to search for the lost marijuana, and used 420 as their code word so others wouldn’t know what they were really up to.
The use of the term 420 spread amongst pot-heads organically, but it’s worth noting that the legendary rock band Grateful Dead and its followers helped spread the word.
Legalization of Cannabis and 420
The significance of 420 never really stopped evolving, as its importance organically grew within the cannabis community over the last 50 years. While cannabis is not legalized everywhere yet, the symbol is deeply rooted in advocacy for recreational and medical cannabis use, as well as pushing for widespread legalization through public gatherings.
How to Celebrate 420 Day
There are many ways to celebrate the cannabis holiday on April 20th as a cannabis enthusiast. A celebration, no matter how big or small, is still a celebration, so here are some ways to enjoy the 420 holiday in a meaningful way:
- Start the day off with your favorite cannabis product
- Consume cannabis with fellow pot-heads
- Support local weed dispensaries
- Support cannabis vendors at 420 events or gatherings
- Try a new cannabis product or indulge in a new consumption method you have never tried before
- Spread the word and advocate for widespread legalization and destigmatization of marijuana
Popular Weed Day Events
The best way to celebrate the holiday is to attend a 420 gathering endorsed by the cannabis industry and its consumers. Some of the most famous 420 events and general sports to celebrate cannabis include:
- 420 Hippie Hill in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
- Mile High 420 Festival, Denver
- Niagara Falls 420 EXPO in Ontario
- Vancouver Cannabis Festival
- Various 420-friendly venues and public parks across Los Angeles
- Washington Square Park
420 Myths and Misconceptions
Over the decades, 420 has been associated with various myths and misconceptions due to its widespread popularity and use. Some of the most famous false theories include:
- 420 is a police code for cannabis consumption
- It’s Bob Marley’s birthday or date of death
- 420 is connected to the chemical formula of cannabis
- It’s a California penal code for cannabis
- The number of cannabinoids found in cannabis is the equivalent of 420
- Weed is legal everywhere on 4/20
The term 420 has come a long way from its humble origin story as a secret code, becoming one of the most famous slang terms that even non-cannabis users recognize. Now it’s used to celebrate cannabis consumption and promote unity amongst cannabis users all over the world. Find your nearest dispensary and explore the selection of available cannabis products while celebrating 420!