4/20 Around the World: How Different Countries Celebrate Cannabis Culture

4/20 Around the World: How Different Countries Celebrate Cannabis Culture

4/20. The one day of the year when stoners unite across the globe to celebrate the wonder plant we all know and love: cannabis, marimba, cripy, mota, weed, pot. From the coffee shops of Amsterdam to the hills of Jamaica, different countries have their own unique ways of celebrating what has now become an international holiday. So, sit back, light up, and let's take a tour around the world to explore how different countries celebrate cannabis culture.

simpsons 420

Let's start with the good ole' U.S. of A., the land of the free, the home of the brave, and the country that brought us the phrase "420" in the first place. With marijuana legalization spreading across the country, on 4/20 Americans can be found lighting up in public parks, rooftop parties, and even on the National Mall in Washington, DC. But if you're looking for a bigger celebration, you might want to check out some of the massive weed festivals that take place across the country. Some of these festivals are so popular that they attract tens of thousands of people; just make sure to bring some snacks, because you know you're going to get the munchies.

 

Now, let's head to Canada. In 2018, Canada became the second country in the world to legalize recreational marijuana, and since then, they've been celebrating 4/20 with full force. Canadians can be found enjoying the great outdoors and lighting up in public parks across the country, you can even take a cannabis-infused hiking tour in the Canadian Rockies. But if you're not a fan of the cold, you can always head to a cannabis-friendly spa in Toronto or take a cannabis-infused cooking class in Vancouver. Just make sure to bring your appetite!

south park- randy marsh selecting weed

Want a more laid-back/relaxed 4/20 celebration, you might want to head to Jamaica. 4/20 is a day to honor the country's most famous son, Bob Marley. The reggae legend was a vocal advocate for cannabis and saw it as a tool for spiritual awakening. The island nation pays tribute to the legend by smoking up and playing his music all day long. It's a fitting tribute to a man who brought joy and inspiration to so many people.


Next up, we're heading across the pond to the Netherlands, where the coffee shops of Amsterdam are world-famous for their cannabis selection. On 4/20, tourists and locals alike flock to the city's coffee shops to indulge in some of the finest weed and hashish Europe has to offer. The city also hosts the annual Cannabis Cup, where people from all over the world come together to sample the best strains of cannabis. It's a must-see for any weed enthusiast.

Finally if you're looking for a more serious 4/20 celebration, you might want to head down under to Australia. Aussies take to the streets to advocate for the legalization of cannabis and an end to the war on drugs. But don't let their serious message fool you. These Aussies know how to party, and their celebrations often include music, art, and plenty of green.

Notable mentions: 

  • Germany: In Berlin, 4/20 is celebrated with a massive festival called "Hanfparade," which translates to "Hemp Parade." Get ready to march for your right to get high.
  • Spain: Barcelona's annual 4/20 celebration takes place in the city's famous Parc de la Ciutadella, where you can enjoy a laid-back afternoon smoking with like-minded individuals.
  • Uruguay: The first country in the world to fully legalize cannabis, Uruguay celebrates 4/20 with peaceful protests advocating for the responsible use of cannabis.
  • Israel: Cannabis has been legal for medical use in Israel since the 1990s, and the country has become a leader in cannabis research and innovation. On 4/20, Israelis gather to celebrate the plant's healing properties.
  • New Zealand: Kiwis celebrate 4/20 with a peaceful protest called the "J Day" rally, which advocates for the legalization of cannabis and hemp.

No matter where you are in the world, there's a way to celebrate 4/20 and show your love for cannabis culture. Just remember to be responsible, stay safe, and always have some munchies on hand.
Happy 4/20, everyone!

randy marsh and towlie

References:

  • High Times. (2018, April 17). How 4/20 Became a Holiday for Stoners. High Times.
  • CBC News. (2021, April 20). How 4/20 is being celebrated across Canada amid the pandemic. CBC News.
  • The Culture Trip. (n.d.). The Best 4/20 Celebrations Around the World. The Culture Trip.
  • ABC News. (2019, April 20).
  • https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/420
  • https://www.huffpost.com/entry/420-celebration-around-the-world_n_5ad8f1a8e4b0e4d0715dbb8d
  • https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/smoking-hot-destinations-for-420
  • https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/how-to-celebrate-420-across-the-country
  • https://www.forbes.com/sites/sarabrittanysomerset/2019/04/19/10-places-to-celebrate-420-around-the-world/?sh=2a31589f4509
  • "4/20 Festivals Draw Tens Of Thousands In Denver." NPR, 20 Apr. 2017.
  • "What Is 4/20 And How Is It Celebrated In Canada?" Global News, 20 Apr. 2020.
  • "Amsterdam Coffeeshop Guide." Amsterdam.info.
  • "420: Why Cannabis Fans Gather To Celebrate 'Weed Day'." BBC News, 20 Apr. 2019.
  • "Bob Marley's Legacy And Influence On Cannabis Culture." Cannabis Culture, 6 Feb. 2020.
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