Every April, cannabis culture reaches its high point as 4/20 celebrations transform cities into vibrant hubs of music, advocacy, and community. For enthusiasts who want to experience the holiday in its most energetic and authentic form, a handful of national events stand out. Each offers something different—whether it’s a massive festival, a policy-driven rally, or a weekend of curated cannabis experiences. Together, they reflect the creativity, activism, and fun that define the modern cannabis movement.
One of the most iconic celebrations is Denver’s Mile High 420 Festival, a cornerstone of the holiday since Colorado’s pioneering legalization era. Held in Civic Center Park, the event draws tens of thousands for a full day of music, vendors, comedy sets, local brands, and cannabis culture activations. It’s free, high-energy, and representative of Denver’s long-standing role as a cannabis capital. While consumption rules vary, the event maintains a strong community focus, blending advocacy with entertainment.
On the West Coast, San Francisco’s legendary Hippie Hill 4/20 gathering remains unmatched for its historic spirit. Located in Golden Gate Park, the event has evolved from an unregulated counterculture meet-up into a city-permitted festival featuring live music, local brands, education booths, and a famously peaceful vibe. Hippie Hill is one of the few large public events where on-site cannabis consumption is allowed, drawing thousands to celebrate responsibly in a communal, open-air environment.
For enthusiasts looking for an elevated, immersive festival experience, Las Vegas’ Planet 13 and consumption lounge events anchor the city’s increasingly robust 4/20 weekend. With celebrity DJ sets, infused dining pop-ups, dispensary-wide sales, hotel activations, and cannabis party buses, Vegas has quickly become a national hotspot for tourists seeking a high-end party atmosphere. As lounges expand across the valley, visitors can expect more curated 4/20 nightlife experiences each year.
On the East Coast, Washington D.C.’s National Cannabis Festival blends entertainment with education. Held at RFK Festival Grounds, the event features a major musical lineup, a large vendor fair, cannabis policy panels, and advocacy programming that highlights D.C.’s grassroots movement. The festival’s “Policy Summit” attracts national thinkers, while its concert stage draws thousands for a celebration that mixes culture with purpose.
The Midwest also shines thanks to Chicago’s Waldos Forever Festival, hosted in the Andersonville neighborhood. Supported by local dispensaries and small businesses, the street festival features live performances, craft vendors, infused treat pop-ups, art, and educational booths focused on equity. Its inclusive, neighborhood-driven energy makes it a standout for community-minded consumers.
Rounding out the list is Seattle’s 4/20 in the Park at Gas Works, a laid-back event that embraces the Northwest’s outdoor culture. With food trucks, music, and a relaxed atmosphere overlooking Lake Union, it’s one of the country’s most scenic gatherings—perfect for enthusiasts who prefer a festival rooted in nature.
Together, these national 4/20 events offer something for every type of cannabis consumer—from the festivalgoer seeking headliner entertainment to the advocate passionate about reform. As cannabis culture continues to expand, these celebrations remain essential stops for anyone wanting to experience 4/20 at its fullest.
Learn More: Staying On the Right Side of the Law When Partying With Cannabis