Category: Cannabis Info-2

California officials have awarded another round of community reinvestment grants to nonprofits and local health departments, funded by marijuana tax revenue.

The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) announced the recipients of over $52 million.on Friday—a $11 million increase compared to 2024. This is the seventh round of cannabis-funded California Community Reinvestment Grants (CalCRG) under the state program.

Organizations received awards ranging from $600,000 and $3 million each to support job placement, legal assistance, treatment of mental health and substance use disorders, referrals to medical care and other services for communities that have been disproportionately affected by the drug war.

“The California Community Reinvestment Grants program continues to serve as a valuable resource for communities that have faced long-standing barriers to opportunity,” Dee Dee Myers, senior advisor to Newsom and director of GO-Biz, said in a press release. “This latest round of awards will support the economic health and well-being of neighborhoods across the state that need and deserve this critical level of reinvestment.”

Grants can reimburse 100 percent of personnel costs associated with providing services. Training, equipment and all other direct costs are reimbursed at a rate of 50 percent. Indirect costs, meanwhile, may not exceed 17 percent of the total award.

Here are some examples of this year’s grant recipients:

• Bay Area Legal Aid: $906,712
• Safe Place for Youth: $600,000
• Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino: $2,012,684
• JobTrain: $3,000,000
• Santa Barbara County Public Health Department: $2,900,000

“Past federal and state drug policies led to the mass incarceration of people of color, decreased access to social services, loss of educational attainment due to diminished federal financial aid eligibility, prohibitions on the use of public housing and other public assistance, and the separation of families,” the department said. “The CalCRG program aims to advance health, wellness and economic justice for these populations and communities.”

In 2023, GO-Biz awarded more than $50 million in reinvestment grants, with funding going to organizations such as Goodwill of the San Francisco Bay, Uncommon Law, the Los Angeles Conservation Corps and health departments in Los Angeles and Monterey counties.

Funding levels for the program have generally been increasing year over year. In 2021, for example, the state awarded about $29 million in grants to 58 nonprofit organizations through the CalCRG program. The initiative was first announced in April 2020.

Legalization in California has created a number of new grant programs aimed at addressing the consequences of marijuana prohibition and attempting to nurture a strong, well-regulated legal industry.

—
Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.

Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.
—

Meanwhile, California’s Supreme Court delivered a victory for the state’s marijuana program, rescinding a lower court ruling in a case that suggested federal prohibition could be used locally to undermine the cannabis market.

The state Supreme Court ruling also came just weeks after California officials unveiled a report on the current status and future of the state’s marijuana market—with independent analysts hired by regulators concluding that the federal prohibition on cannabis that prevents interstate commerce is meaningfully bolstering the illicit market.

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) did sign a bill in 2022 that would have empowered him to enter into interstate cannabis commerce agreements with other legal states, but that power was incumbent upon federal guidance or an assessment from the state attorney general that sanctioned such activity.

Separately, state lawmakers are considering a bipartisan bill to create a psilocybin pilot program for military veterans and first responders.

Members Of Congress Want Federal Investigation Into Use Of Florida Medicaid Funds To Oppose Marijuana Legalization By Group Tied To DeSantis

Photo courtesy of Philip Steffan.

On a shelf between craft beer and kombucha, something else is showing up in more fridges, bar tabs and DoorDash carts: cannabis. Not flower, not gummies: drinks. Fizzy, fruit-forward, sometimes microdosed, sometimes not. Once confined to dispensaries and health stores, THC beverages are moving into everyday life, and fast.

Some brands promise a cleaner, hangover-free buzz. Others position themselves as functional, plant-based upgrades to wine or cocktails. But whatever the pitch, one thing is clear: cannabis drinks are no longer a novelty. They’re scaling, diversifying and, in some states, outselling more traditional cannabis products like edibles.

How Big Is The Cannabis Drinks Industry?

Retail data from Hoodie Analytics, which tracks licensed cannabis dispensaries, shows a beverage market maturing quickly, especially at the high-dose end. From March 2024 through March 2025, ready-to-drink drinks containing 100 milligrams of THC generated $141 million in U.S. dispensary sales, compared to $20.7 million for 10-milligram drinks and $8 million for 25-milligram formats. Top-selling flavors included lemonade, root beer and orange, with brands like Keef, Uncle Arnie’s and Ray’s Lemonade leading in overall velocity. Notably, these figures do not include hemp-derived beverage sales through general retail channels.

The broader global category is growing as well. According to Grandview Research, the THC seltzer market was valued at $344.7 million in 2023 and is projected to surpass $2.6 billion by 2030.

Among emerging U.S. players, Brēz, America’s best-selling cannabis drinks brand, reported $28 million in revenue in 2024 and $13 million in the first quarter of 2025, a number that outpaces many longer-established cannabis beverage brands operating solely within licensed dispensary channels.

Yet despite the growth, the industry remains fragmented. Many beverage sales still happen through state-regulated cannabis shops, while others operate under hemp-derived loopholes created by the 2018 Farm Bill. The result is a market with both enormous upside and ongoing legal uncertainty, where measuring “how big” depends heavily on what kind of THC is being tracked and in what regulatory context.

When Did The Cannabis Beverage Boom Really Start?

The current wave of cannabis beverages began with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which federally legalized hemp and allowed for the sale of products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. That legal framework gave rise to a new class of hemp-derived THC drinks that could be sold outside dispensaries, even in states where recreational marijuana remains illegal.

ForbesThis One Decision Could Cost America Up To $10 Billion A Year, According To ExpertsBy Javier Hasse

Innovation in the space began earlier in Canada. Beverage companies like Boston Beer entered the market under full federal legalization, launching products such as TeaPot, a line of 5-milligram THC iced teas. “Cannabis drinks were traditionally confined to dispensaries, which can be intimidating and confusing,” says Paul Weaver, head of cannabis at Boston Beer Company, one of the top brewers in the United States. “The recent proliferation of hemp-derived THC beverages in American liquor stores has validated our hypothesis.”

In the U.S., the category’s breakout moment came between 2023 and 2024. As states like Minnesota legalized low-dose THC products for over-the-counter sale, cannabis beverages began appearing in liquor aisles, on retail delivery platforms like DoorDash and through multi-brand DTC sites such as ShopWandererous, launched by Wana Brands to help normalize consumer access.

Where Are Cannabis Drinks Gaining Ground?

Cannabis beverages are finding footing well beyond coastal dispensaries. According to Wana Brands, some of the most enthusiastic adoption is happening in Southern and Midwestern states where adult-use cannabis remains illegal.

“In emerging markets across the South and Midwest—especially those without adult-use programs—we’re seeing consumers turn to hemp-derived beverages as a legal, approachable alternative to alcohol,” says Stephanie Daley, vice president of supply chain and operations at Wana. “Today’s consumers want control, consistency and transparency in what they consume. Beverages deliver on those expectations in a format that feels familiar.”

DoorDash, one of the largest last-mile platforms in the U.S., has seen rising demand for hemp-derived THC products delivered directly to consumers.

“Since 2020, DoorDash has been expanding our offerings beyond restaurant delivery, into categories like grocery, alcohol, retail and more to meet evolving consumer needs and expectations of convenience,” says Tom Carroll, general manager of the hemp category at DoorDash. “With growing demand for hemp-derived THC and CBD products, we saw a natural opportunity to expand access to a wide selection of products consumers enjoy. Since launching, we’ve continued to see strong and sustained consumer interest in the category, and we’re excited to offer eligible customers a seamless, safe way to get products they want, while helping local merchants reach new consumers.”

DoorDash data confirms that interest in hemp-derived THC beverages is growing steadily. According to the company, the category is “highly incremental to existing basket sizes” and sees notable demand spikes around major holidays—up 40% on 4/20 compared to the 2025 baseline, with similar increases around July 4. DoorDash also notes that consumers are embracing these drinks as part of their broader retail experience, not just as a novelty.

Meanwhile, companies like Edibles.com are helping to fill the gap in underserved regions. A new venture from the parent company of Edible Arrangements, Edibles.com is rolling out curated hemp marketplaces in states like Texas, Georgia and Florida, places with high demand and limited access. “We’re building out a platform that’s all about gifting, food, health and wellness,” CEO Somia Farid Silber told Benzinga. “This is the wellness part.”

What Types Of Cannabis Drinks Are People Buying?

Despite the rise of low-dose, lifestyle-oriented drinks, high-potency beverages are still dominating by dollar sales, as evidenced by Hoodie Analytics’ data. These often come in small bottles and, while not designed for sipping, remain popular with heavy consumers.

But a shift is underway. At brands like Triple, the goal is to build a beverage portfolio that fits seamlessly into the way consumers already drink.

“We’re building Triple to be the next great American beverage brand—not a niche cannabis product,” says Lambo Perkins, the emerging company’s chief marketing officer. “In a category where most brands lean toward either wellness minimalism or stoner kitsch, Triple sits confidently in the middle: bold, clean and built for the everyday consumer.”

Triple’s line includes a 3-milligram High Seltzer (designed for sessionability), a 10-milligram High Lemonade and a 5-milligram enhancer called The Drop. “Gen Z is redefining what it means to ‘have a drink,’” Perkins says. “They want the ritual, but not the calories, the bloat or the hangover.”

That shift toward sessionable, lifestyle-oriented drinks began in part with Cann, one of the earliest low-dose THC beverage brands to gain national traction. Backed by celebrity investors and widely credited with introducing the idea of “social tonics,” Cann helped frame cannabis drinks as a mainstream alternative to beer or hard seltzer. Its model—2mg of THC per can—set the tone for a new generation of microdosed products aimed at the wellness-conscious drinker.

At Wana, that trend toward intentionality is also evident. “Consumers aren’t chasing trends—they’re searching for solutions,” says Daley. “That’s why we’re starting to see a shift toward functional blends containing other cannabinoids in addition to THC, such as CBD and CBG.”

Even in curated marketplaces like Edibles.com, which carries fewer than 40 SKUs, drinks remain a consistent part of the offering, often positioned as an approachable entry point for new or wellness-minded consumers. “This is about offering a safer, more straightforward way for people to try or access THC,” said Edibles.com’s Thomas Winstanley in a recent interview. “Especially in places where people aren’t sure what’s legal or safe.”

ForbesInside Snoop Dogg’s 7-Brand Cannabis Beverage Empire: ‘I’m Giving People Choices…You Sip, You Feel It, Nice And Easy’By Javier Hasse

The category is also drawing attention from celebrity entrepreneurs and wellness innovators. Snoop Dogg, through his venture Iconic Tonics, has backed a portfolio of cannabis beverages aimed at mainstream social settings. Meanwhile, brands like Adaptaphoria are leaning into mood-enhancing, CBD-based formulations built for relaxation, focus and stress relief, signaling that the future of cannabis drinks may be as much about wellness as it is about the high.

Are These Drinks Replacing Alcohol Or Reinventing It?

While some cannabis brands present THC beverages as a direct substitute for alcohol, most industry players frame them as something else entirely: a new kind of social ritual. At Boston Beer Company, the approach is additive rather than competitive.

“Cannabis beverages are a nascent category, making it difficult to directly correlate specific cannibalization of our individual brands,” says Weaver. “However, the macro-impact on the beverage alcohol category can no longer be ignored.”

That shift is already playing out in retail behavior. DoorDash reports that when customers order from alcohol retailers carrying hemp-derived THC products, two-thirds of their basket value comes from hemp, with the remaining third from traditional alcohol. Rather than choosing one or the other, consumers appear to be blending both, mixing microdosed drinks with legacy favorites depending on the occasion.

Triple’s CMO, Lambo Perkins, sees that pattern in cultural terms. “We believe Gen Z is mindful, in control and interested in experiences rather than consequences,” he says. “They still want to sip on something social; they’re just over the hangover, the calories and the bloat.”

ForbesHe Sold His Cannabis Vape Brand For Nine Figures—Now He’s Coming For Your CocktailBy Javier Hasse

That generational attitude is reflected in the way cannabis beverages show up in real life: at tailgates, beach days, dinner parties and post-work wind-downs. “It’s about giving people the same ritual as a beer or cocktail,” says Perkins, “without the baggage.”

For companies like Wana and Brēz, that also means offering predictable onset and duration, clear labeling and consistent effects—features that align with how alcohol has been regulated and marketed for decades. The difference is the underlying active ingredient and the intent.

Can This Market Keep Growing?

By nearly all measures, yes. California alone saw monthly cannabis beverage sales jump from $2.8 million in March 2024 to over $4 million by March 2025, according to Hoodie Analytics. Brands like Ray’s Lemonade and Ayrloom continue to lead in velocity, while smaller players like Sips and Soganja are also gaining ground.

On the national scale, mainstream alcohol retailers like Total Wine & More and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits are expanding their hemp-derived offerings. “We believe there’s growing interest among our alcohol partners in expanding their DoorDash offerings to include hemp-derived THC and CBD,” a company spokesperson confirms.

At the same time, operators are bracing for increased regulatory scrutiny, as Congress debates a new Farm Bill that could redefine the legal boundaries for hemp-derived THC—and as multiple states consider outright bans. Rather than resist the shift, many in the industry are actively pushing for smarter, more consistent oversight.

ForbesHow A Military Grad Turned A Coffee Table Disaster Into A Pink Cannabis EmpireBy Javier Hasse

“We have no interest in a wild west approach,” says Triple COO Will Spartin, who also sits on the board of the Hemp Beverage Alliance. “We are advocating for positive regulation that balances between a free market approach and the need to protect consumer safety.”

That sentiment is echoed by leaders at Edibles.com, who see responsible retail and clear milligram caps as essential for the category’s survival. “Regulation in this category can be a net positive,” Winstanley said. “It helps weed out bad actors. It legitimizes good ones. And it creates a safer space for the consumer.”

Still, the future of cannabis beverages will depend as much on cultural integration as it does on legal frameworks. As Wana’s Daley puts it, “We’re moving past the ‘can you believe this has THC?’ moment and into ‘where does this fit in my life?’”

For now, the answer seems to be: on the shelf, in the cart and increasingly, in the fridge.

The Bottom Line

As federal clarity lags and state laws shift in real time, cannabis drinks continue to evolve from curiosity to category. What was once a niche product sold in dispensaries is now a growing segment in liquor stores, delivery apps and mainstream retail—offering consumers a new way to relax, reconnect or simply replace a drink.

Whether they’re seen as a threat to alcohol, a wellness tool or just a better-tasting gummy, one thing is certain: cannabis beverages aren’t going away. They’re just getting started.

Legal cannabis is transforming college campuses in ways we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago.

Students and faculty alike are navigating new social norms, as open discussions about cannabis become more common in dorms, classrooms, and student organizations.

This shift isn’t just about attitudes—it’s prompting universities to rethink policies, expand wellness resources, and address the realities of cannabis use among students.

Student-led initiatives are pushing for education, harm reduction, and even advocacy for policy change within their schools.

This article takes a closer look at how campus life is evolving alongside cannabis—highlighting both the opportunities it creates and the challenges it presents to higher education communities nationwide.

Access and Attitudes: Cannabis in the College Experience

The landscape of cannabis access on college campuses has shifted rapidly over the past few years.

As legalization expands, students are faced with decisions about use that simply weren’t as prominent a decade ago.

Where cannabis was once relegated to back corners or secret circles, it’s now part of open conversations among peers and campus leaders alike.

Laws have relaxed in many regions, making cannabis more available—sometimes just a short walk or delivery away from campus housing.

This newfound accessibility introduces both opportunities and responsibilities for students.

For those who value convenience, platforms like Buy My Weed offer discreet options to browse and purchase a wide range of products online, all without leaving their dorm room or apartment.

This shift reflects how student consumer habits are evolving, mirroring trends seen in other industries where digital access drives behavior.

But increased availability also means students must navigate choices with care—balancing curiosity or social pressure against health considerations, school policies, and personal values.

In many ways, today’s college experience includes learning how to make informed decisions about cannabis, both individually and within their communities.

Key Takeaway: Greater access to cannabis is reshaping student life, bringing new freedoms but also fresh responsibilities for the college community.

Campus Policies and the New Normal

Universities across North America are rewriting the rulebook as cannabis laws evolve.

Balancing legal requirements, student safety, and social shifts isn’t simple.

Campus leaders are crafting new policies, launching educational campaigns, and listening closely to student concerns.

The result is a patchwork of approaches—some schools emphasize strict compliance, while others focus on wellness and dialogue.

What’s clear: cannabis policy is now central to campus life strategy.

Navigating Federal and Local Laws

Legal cannabis off campus doesn’t mean the same rules apply inside university gates.

Most colleges must juggle federal regulations that still prohibit cannabis, even where local or state laws have changed.

This means students living in residence halls or attending federally funded schools may still face strict bans, regardless of what’s legal outside campus boundaries.

Ohio State Policy Update: In December 2023, Ohio State University clarified that it would maintain its prohibition on cannabis use and possession on campus, despite statewide legalization, exemplifying how schools must align campus policy with both state and federal law.

The bottom line: students need to be aware of both local laws and their school’s specific rules to avoid confusion—and potential consequences.

Education, Prevention, and Harm Reduction

Cannabis education is taking center stage on campuses—no longer just a matter for disciplinary offices.

Many universities are rolling out harm reduction programs that focus on safe consumption practices rather than abstinence alone.

Workshops cover topics like understanding potency, safe storage, identifying risky behaviors, and knowing when to seek help.

Some campuses partner with local health organizations or invite medical experts for talks and Q&A sessions.

This new approach aims to reduce stigma around use while equipping students with facts—not fear tactics—to make informed choices about cannabis.

Student Leadership and Advocacy

Student groups are stepping up as key voices in the evolving conversation about campus cannabis policies.

Organizations led by undergrads advocate for clearer rules, medical accommodations, or even changes to disciplinary procedures regarding cannabis use.

Many peer networks offer education workshops or support circles that prioritize safety and inclusion for both users and non-users alike.

This activism helps bridge gaps between administration goals and student realities—shaping not just policy but the broader culture of responsibility on campus.

Key Takeaway: Student engagement drives more responsive—and realistic—cannabis strategies at universities nationwide.

The Social Side: Cannabis and Student Culture

Cannabis is shaping how students connect, unwind, and form communities on campus.

From late-night study sessions to themed events, it’s woven into the modern student experience in ways that go beyond stereotypes.

This cultural shift brings opportunities for inclusion but also new questions about safety and respect for differing viewpoints.

Cannabis at Campus Events and Gatherings

On many campuses, cannabis has moved from taboo to a visible part of social life.

Some student groups now host cannabis-friendly gatherings—think movie nights, art workshops, or small outdoor festivals.

Universities face the challenge of supporting inclusive activities while upholding rules and local laws.

Event organizers often focus on education and harm reduction, providing information on safe consumption practices alongside snacks and conversation.

Pro Tip: Clear event guidelines and alternative activities help keep gatherings welcoming for everyone, not just cannabis users.

Digital Communities and Social Media

The digital world has become a major hub for cannabis culture among students.

Private group chats, Instagram pages, and Discord servers are spaces where students share advice, product reviews, and event updates discreetly.

These platforms foster connections between like-minded peers and allow quick access to new information about local laws or university policies.

Social media also plays a role in normalizing cannabis use—memes, polls, or educational threads can spark discussion across diverse campus audiences.

Balancing Inclusion and Responsibility

Diverse attitudes toward cannabis create both tension and opportunity on campus.

A 2023 report found that nearly 6.3% of college students use cannabis daily, and attitudes toward use have shifted considerably as legalization expands. Trends show increased normalization and use, highlighting the challenge of balancing different perspectives on campus. (2023 Student Attitudes Survey)

Campuses respond by promoting open dialogue: offering peer-led discussions or anonymous surveys to surface concerns from both users and non-users.

The goal is creating shared spaces where everyone feels respected—regardless of their personal choices about cannabis.

Key Takeaway: Healthy student culture means honoring choice while making room for diverse voices within campus life.

Wellness, Support, and Academic Impact

The connection between cannabis use, student wellness, and academic outcomes is drawing more attention on campuses across North America.

Universities are stepping up their efforts to support student health while also exploring the risks and benefits tied to cannabis consumption.

This shift means rethinking how schools approach mental health resources, academic support, and personal development—all through the lens of a changing cannabis landscape.

Mental Health Resources and Support Services

Counseling centers are updating their outreach as more students come forward with cannabis-related questions or concerns.

Wellness programs now offer information on responsible use, recognizing that open dialogue can help reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help early.

Workshops and peer-led groups are popping up across campuses, creating spaces for honest conversations about stress management, substance use, and mental well-being.

Pro Tip: Students should look for campus workshops or online modules that address both substance use and holistic wellness strategies.

Academic Performance: Myths and Realities

There’s ongoing debate about how cannabis really impacts concentration, motivation, and grades.

Academic Impact Review 2023 found that cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood is linked to lower academic achievement.

This reinforces the importance of understanding potential academic risks as part of student life decisions.

Some students may believe occasional use won’t affect them academically—but research suggests even casual consumption can influence study habits and learning outcomes over time.

Promoting Healthy Balance and Self-Care

Navigating campus life means making informed choices around wellness—including cannabis use.

Many universities promote a harm-reduction approach: offering clear facts on effects, encouraging moderation, and providing confidential support for those who want it.

Students can benefit from setting personal boundaries—like planning screen-free study sessions or practicing mindfulness to manage stress without substances.

A healthy balance comes from staying informed, listening to your body’s needs, and using campus resources when needed.

Conclusion

Cannabis is no longer just a side note in the story of campus life—it’s become part of the mainstream conversation.

As universities and students face this evolving landscape, clear policies and honest discussions are more important than ever.

Many campuses are now putting student well-being at the center, balancing personal freedoms with shared responsibility.

By continuing to adapt, listen, and educate, schools can create communities where everyone feels informed and respected—no matter where they stand on cannabis use.

The future of campus life will be shaped by how thoughtfully these changes are managed today.

This post is provided by a third party who may receive compensation from the products or services they mention.

This article was written by

Follow

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

On Tuesday, May 20, the Nebraska Senate is scheduled to debate LB 677 with Amendment 1251. The bill includes a regulatory framework for legal medical cannabis sales, along with new restrictions. Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana is calling for passage of the bill with the amendment and asking supporters to call and email their state senators.
 
Without LB 677, patients have no access to medical cannabis. The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission has “a complete lack of resources” and no ability to carry out its duties to license medical cannabis businesses. Attorney General Mike Hilgers and others are still trying to overturn the medical cannabis initiatives in court. They believe their outrageous lawsuit to re-criminalize patients is best positioned if the Legislature doesn’t act. AG Hilgers is trying to kill LB 677 dishonestly, claiming that “in my view, would supercharge the black market as a recreational marijuana bill that has a whole host of negative impacts on the state of Nebraska.”
 
MPP believes the Legislature should implement the will of voters without imposing the restrictions contained in AM 1251 — such as prohibiting smoking and limiting qualifying conditions to a specific list. Sadly, there is no realistic prospect of that happening. Thirty-three votes out of 49 are needed on any bill, and the votes are not there to pass a better implementation bill. 
 
The families behind Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana have sacrificed tremendously to bring relief to their loved ones. They are asking supporters to make a call and send an email in support of LB 677, Amendment 1251. 
 

• 5/23 24: Cannadelic (NECANN), MIami Airport Convention Center, Miami, FL

• 5/23-26: Texas Hempstalk, Texas Music River Ranch, Webberville, TX

• 5/24: Stoner Cinema Night, North Hillsboro Field, Hillsboro, MO; featuring Up in Smoke and Dazed and Confused

• 5/26-28: Grow Up Toronto, Pearson Comvention Center, Toronto, ON

• 5/28: The Other Magazine Launch Party, Harbor NYC, New York, NY

• 5/30-31: Lucky Leaf Expo, Kentucky Convention Center, Louisville, KY

• 6/3: NORML FORML, Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

• 6/4-5: CMB (Cannabis Means Business), Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

• 6/5: Bagel Bunch CMB, New York, NY

• 6/8-10: Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, Marriott Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL

• 6/10-11: Native American Cannabis & Hemp Conference, Pechanga Resort Casino, Temecula, CA

• 6/10-12: CHAMPS, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago, IL

• 6/12-13: Northeast (Cannacon), Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, NY

• 6/13-15: Michigan Gems & Genetics Festival, Sarns Resort, Morley, MI; featuring Fortunate Youth, Grateful Dub and more

• 6/17: Sasha Shulgin’s 100th Birthday Celebration, The Kirk, Denver, CO

• 6/19-25: European Cannabis Week; Berlin x London

• 6/22: Piffcon, Amazura Concert Hall, Queens, NY

• 6/26-27: Vlasic Classic, St. John’s Resort, Plymouth, MI; LPP fundraiser

• 7/9-11: Hemp Beverage Expo, Omni Atlanta Hotel, Atlanta, GA

• 7/12-13: Keystoners Gathering, Johnstown, PA

• 7/18-19: National Cannabis Festival, RFK Campus, Washington, DC

• 7/18-19: Midwest (Cannacon), Lansing Center, Lansing, MI

• 7/23-26: 6/10-12: CHAMPS, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 7/25-27: Stargazer Cannabis Festival, Waverly, OH; camping event

• 8/1-3: Reggae on the River, County Lind Ranch, Piercy, CA

• 8/12-13: Midwest (Cannacon), Saint Paul River Center, St. Paul, MN

• 8/30-31: Cannifest, Halvorsen Waterfront Park, Eureka, CA; featuring String Chese Incident

• 9/3: MJ Unpacked, Union Sation Hotel, St. Louis, MO

• 9/5-6: New Jersey Cannabis Convention & NJ NECANN Cup, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ

• 9/12-13: Revelry Cannabis Festival, Pier 36, New York, NY

• 9/19-20: New York Cannabis & Hemp Convention (NECAN), Floreano Convention Center, Rochester, NY

• 9/20: Farm Aid 40, Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN; featuring Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Dave Matthews and more

• 10/2-3: Cannabis Lab Conference + Expo, Hollywood, FL

• 10/4-5: Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival, Renninger’s Farmers Market, Kutztown, OA

• 10/4-5: Puffcon, Los Angeles, CA

• 10/8-9: Hall of Flowers, New York, NY

• 10/24-25: CannExpo, Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON

• 10/24-25: Medical Cannabis Conference, University of Denver/Auraria Campus, Denver, CO

• 11/8-9: The Harvest Cup, DCU Center, Worcester, MA

• 11/12-15: International Drug Policy Reform Conference, Detroit, MI

• 12/2-5: MJBizCon, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 12/4-6: NORML Key West Legal Seminar, Hyatt Centic, Key West Resort & Spa, Key West, FL

PAST 2025 EVENTS

• 1/11: Underground Legacy to Legal Forum (Heady NJ), The Takeoff Lounge, Newark, NJ

• 1/14: SUNY Cannabis Conference, SUNY Niagara, Sanborn, NY; featuring Ed Rosentha

• 1/31: Texas Hemp Classic Outdoor Cup, Vulcan Gas Company, Austin, TX

• 1/31-2/2: Hawaii Cannabis Expo, Blaisdell Exhibition Center, Honolulu, HI

• 2/5-7: CannaDataCon, Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, Miami Beach, FL

• 2/8-9: Connecticut Cannabis Expo, Aqua Turf Club, Plantville, CT

• 2/11: Hash Angeles, Thunder Studios, Long Beach, CA

• 2/12-15: CHAMPS, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 2/17-18: Women Grow Leadership Summit, Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, National Harbor, MD; featuring Brittney Griner and Ricky Williams

• 2/22: Hempworld III, Westside Cultural Arts Center, Atlanta, GA

• 2/28-31: Lucky Leaf Expo, Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, MN

• 3/7-15: SXSW, Austin, TX

• 3/8: Vicente’s Psychedelics & Cannabis Gathering, Austin, TX

• 3/10: Last Prisoner Project’s Outlaw Party, Austin, TX

• 3/12:  Jews In Weed’s Purim Party, Culture House, New York, NY

• 3/13: ICBC Barcelona, L’Auditori de Cornellá, Barcelona, Spain

• 3/13-15: Canna Week, Coachella Valley, CA

• 3/14-16: Spannabis, Fira de Cornellá, Barcelona, Spain

• 3/15: Farmers Cup, Moonlight Amphitheater, Vista, CA; featuring Berner, Luniz and more

• 3/15-16: Rick Steves’ On the Hippie Trail Tour; San Rafael and Santa Cruz, CA

• 3/19-20: Hall of Flowers, Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura, CA

• 3/21: Bagel Bash @ NECANN, Trident Booksellers, Boston, MA

• 3/21: Sensi Night @ NECANN, Royal Boston, Boston, MA; featuring DMC from Run-DMC and the Sensi Allstars

• 3/21-22: New England Cannabis Convention (NECANN), Hynes Convention Center, Boston, MA

• 3/30: Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA; featuring Jim Belushi

• 4/5: Hash Bash, Ann Arbor, MI

• 4/10-12: NOCO Hemp Expo, Estes Park Events Complex, Estes Park, CO

• 4/11: Buds-A-Palooza, Phoenix, AZ; featuring Tropidelic, Mike Love & the Full Circle and more

• 4/12: Fly High 420 Kickoff, Simply Pure, Trenton, NJ; featuring Gillie the Kid

• 4/13-20: SF Space Walk, San Francisco, CA

• 4/16: The BIg Lebowski, The Orpheum, Los Angeles, CA; featuring Jeff “The Dude” Bridges

• 4/18-20: 4/20 Weekend Events Guide 

• 4/24: Rick Steves’ On the Hippie Trail Tour; Egyptian Theater, Boise, IDF

• 4/28-5/1: Cannabis Unity Week of Action (LPP), Washington, DC

• 4/29-30: ICBC Berlin, Estrel Berlin Hotel, Berlin, Germany

• 4/30-5/1: MJ Unpacked, Atlantic City, NJ

• 5/1: Masters of the Green (ICIA), Red Wolf Golf Club, Clarkston, WA 

• 5/1-2: O Canadabis Tour, Edmonton, AB and Calgary, AB; featuring Cypress Hill

• 5/2-3: Vermont Cannabis & Hemp Convention (NECANN), Champlain Valley Expo, Burlington, VT

• 5/2-3: Maryland Cannabis Convention (NECANN), Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MD

• 5/2-3: Vermont Cannabis & Hemp Convention, Champlain Valley Expo (NECANN), Burlingon, VT

• 5/2-3: NY Farmers’ Forum & Craft Flower Cup, Coxsackie, NY

• 5/3: Global Marijuana March, Queens Park, Toronto, ON

• 5/3: Global Cannabis March, Rehoboth Beach, Rehoboth, DE

• 5/3: Re-Claim the Pot Parade, Washington Square Park, New York, NY

• 5/3: The Heady NJ Craft Cannabis Celebration, JC Walls, Jersey City, NJ

• 5/4: The Mendo Cup, Willits Little Lake Grange, Willits, CA

• 5/6-8: CHAMPS, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ

• 5/7-9: American Autoflower Cup, Los Angeles, CA

• 5/13-15: Cannabis Industry Lobby Days & Stakeholder Summit (NCIA), Washington, DC

• 5/14: Revelry Buyers’ Club, Basilica Hudson, Hudson, NY

• 5/14: The Cannajo!nt Revelry After Party, Kitty’s Backyard, Hudson, NY

• 5/15-17: Dead & Company, Sphere, Las Vegas, NV

• 5/16: Blunt Brunch CoEd Social, Hotel Incanto, Las Cruces, NM

• 5/16-17: CannaPortugal, Lisbon, Portugal

• 5/17: Uplift the Community Summit, Restoration Plaza, Brooklyn, NY

• 5/16-18: Cannabis Wellness & Expo, Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock, AR

PREVIOUS EVENTS GUIDES

• 2024

• 2023

• 2022

Become a Patron!

Steve Bloom

Publisher of CelebStoner.com, former editor of High Times and Freedom Leaf and co-author of Pot Culture and Reefer Movie Madness.

• 5/23 24: Cannadelic (NECANN), MIami Airport Convention Center, Miami, FL

• 5/23-26: Texas Hempstalk, Texas Music River Ranch, Webberville, TX

• 5/24: Stoner Cinema Night, North Hillsboro Field, Hillsboro, MO; featuring Up in Smoke and Dazed and Confused

• 5/26-28: Grow Up Toronto, Pearson Comvention Center, Toronto, ON

• 5/28: The Other Magazine Launch Party, Harbor NYC, New York, NY

• 5/30-31: Lucky Leaf Expo, Kentucky Convention Center, Louisville, KY

• 6/3: NORML FORML, Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

• 6/4-5: CMB (Cannabis Means Business), Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

• 6/5: Bagel Bunch CMB, New York, NY

• 6/8-10: Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, Marriott Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL

• 6/10-11: Native American Cannabis & Hemp Conference, Pechanga Resort Casino, Temecula, CA

• 6/10-12: CHAMPS, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago, IL

• 6/12-13: Northeast (Cannacon), Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, NY

• 6/13-15: Michigan Gems & Genetics Festival, Sarns Resort, Morley, MI; featuring Fortunate Youth, Grateful Dub and more

• 6/17: Sasha Shulgin’s 100th Birthday Celebration, The Kirk, Denver, CO

• 6/19-25: European Cannabis Week; Berlin x London

• 6/22: Piffcon, Amazura Concert Hall, Queens, NY

• 6/26-27: Vlasic Classic, St. John’s Resort, Plymouth, MI; LPP fundraiser

• 7/9-11: Hemp Beverage Expo, Omni Atlanta Hotel, Atlanta, GA

• 7/12-13: Keystoners Gathering, Johnstown, PA

• 7/18-19: National Cannabis Festival, RFK Campus, Washington, DC

• 7/18-19: Midwest (Cannacon), Lansing Center, Lansing, MI

• 7/23-26: 6/10-12: CHAMPS, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 7/25-27: Stargazer Cannabis Festival, Waverly, OH; camping event

• 8/1-3: Reggae on the River, County Lind Ranch, Piercy, CA

• 8/12-13: Midwest (Cannacon), Saint Paul River Center, St. Paul, MN

• 8/30-31: Cannifest, Halvorsen Waterfront Park, Eureka, CA; featuring String Chese Incident

• 9/3: MJ Unpacked, Union Sation Hotel, St. Louis, MO

• 9/5-6: New Jersey Cannabis Convention & NJ NECANN Cup, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ

• 9/12-13: Revelry Cannabis Festival, Pier 36, New York, NY

• 9/19-20: New York Cannabis & Hemp Convention (NECAN), Floreano Convention Center, Rochester, NY

• 9/20: Farm Aid 40, Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN; featuring Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Dave Matthews and more

• 10/2-3: Cannabis Lab Conference + Expo, Hollywood, FL

• 10/4-5: Pennsylvania Cannabis Festival, Renninger’s Farmers Market, Kutztown, OA

• 10/4-5: Puffcon, Los Angeles, CA

• 10/8-9: Hall of Flowers, New York, NY

• 10/24-25: CannExpo, Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON

• 10/24-25: Medical Cannabis Conference, University of Denver/Auraria Campus, Denver, CO

• 11/8-9: The Harvest Cup, DCU Center, Worcester, MA

• 11/12-15: International Drug Policy Reform Conference, Detroit, MI

• 12/2-5: MJBizCon, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 12/4-6: NORML Key West Legal Seminar, Hyatt Centic, Key West Resort & Spa, Key West, FL

PAST 2025 EVENTS

• 1/11: Underground Legacy to Legal Forum (Heady NJ), The Takeoff Lounge, Newark, NJ

• 1/14: SUNY Cannabis Conference, SUNY Niagara, Sanborn, NY; featuring Ed Rosentha

• 1/31: Texas Hemp Classic Outdoor Cup, Vulcan Gas Company, Austin, TX

• 1/31-2/2: Hawaii Cannabis Expo, Blaisdell Exhibition Center, Honolulu, HI

• 2/5-7: CannaDataCon, Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, Miami Beach, FL

• 2/8-9: Connecticut Cannabis Expo, Aqua Turf Club, Plantville, CT

• 2/11: Hash Angeles, Thunder Studios, Long Beach, CA

• 2/12-15: CHAMPS, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV

• 2/17-18: Women Grow Leadership Summit, Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, National Harbor, MD; featuring Brittney Griner and Ricky Williams

• 2/22: Hempworld III, Westside Cultural Arts Center, Atlanta, GA

• 2/28-31: Lucky Leaf Expo, Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, MN

• 3/7-15: SXSW, Austin, TX

• 3/8: Vicente’s Psychedelics & Cannabis Gathering, Austin, TX

• 3/10: Last Prisoner Project’s Outlaw Party, Austin, TX

• 3/12:  Jews In Weed’s Purim Party, Culture House, New York, NY

• 3/13: ICBC Barcelona, L’Auditori de Cornellá, Barcelona, Spain

• 3/13-15: Canna Week, Coachella Valley, CA

• 3/14-16: Spannabis, Fira de Cornellá, Barcelona, Spain

• 3/15: Farmers Cup, Moonlight Amphitheater, Vista, CA; featuring Berner, Luniz and more

• 3/15-16: Rick Steves’ On the Hippie Trail Tour; San Rafael and Santa Cruz, CA

• 3/19-20: Hall of Flowers, Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura, CA

• 3/21: Bagel Bash @ NECANN, Trident Booksellers, Boston, MA

• 3/21: Sensi Night @ NECANN, Royal Boston, Boston, MA; featuring DMC from Run-DMC and the Sensi Allstars

• 3/21-22: New England Cannabis Convention (NECANN), Hynes Convention Center, Boston, MA

• 3/30: Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA; featuring Jim Belushi

• 4/5: Hash Bash, Ann Arbor, MI

• 4/10-12: NOCO Hemp Expo, Estes Park Events Complex, Estes Park, CO

• 4/11: Buds-A-Palooza, Phoenix, AZ; featuring Tropidelic, Mike Love & the Full Circle and more

• 4/12: Fly High 420 Kickoff, Simply Pure, Trenton, NJ; featuring Gillie the Kid

• 4/13-20: SF Space Walk, San Francisco, CA

• 4/16: The BIg Lebowski, The Orpheum, Los Angeles, CA; featuring Jeff “The Dude” Bridges

• 4/18-20: 4/20 Weekend Events Guide 

• 4/24: Rick Steves’ On the Hippie Trail Tour; Egyptian Theater, Boise, IDF

• 4/28-5/1: Cannabis Unity Week of Action (LPP), Washington, DC

• 4/29-30: ICBC Berlin, Estrel Berlin Hotel, Berlin, Germany

• 4/30-5/1: MJ Unpacked, Atlantic City, NJ

• 5/1: Masters of the Green (ICIA), Red Wolf Golf Club, Clarkston, WA 

• 5/1-2: O Canadabis Tour, Edmonton, AB and Calgary, AB; featuring Cypress Hill

• 5/2-3: Vermont Cannabis & Hemp Convention (NECANN), Champlain Valley Expo, Burlington, VT

• 5/2-3: Maryland Cannabis Convention (NECANN), Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MD

• 5/2-3: Vermont Cannabis & Hemp Convention, Champlain Valley Expo (NECANN), Burlingon, VT

• 5/2-3: NY Farmers’ Forum & Craft Flower Cup, Coxsackie, NY

• 5/3: Global Marijuana March, Queens Park, Toronto, ON

• 5/3: Global Cannabis March, Rehoboth Beach, Rehoboth, DE

• 5/3: Re-Claim the Pot Parade, Washington Square Park, New York, NY

• 5/3: The Heady NJ Craft Cannabis Celebration, JC Walls, Jersey City, NJ

• 5/4: The Mendo Cup, Willits Little Lake Grange, Willits, CA

• 5/6-8: CHAMPS, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ

• 5/7-9: American Autoflower Cup, Los Angeles, CA

• 5/13-15: Cannabis Industry Lobby Days & Stakeholder Summit (NCIA), Washington, DC

• 5/14: Revelry Buyers’ Club, Basilica Hudson, Hudson, NY

• 5/14: The Cannajo!nt Revelry After Party, Kitty’s Backyard, Hudson, NY

• 5/15-17: Dead & Company, Sphere, Las Vegas, NV

• 5/16: Blunt Brunch CoEd Social, Hotel Incanto, Las Cruces, NM

• 5/16-17: CannaPortugal, Lisbon, Portugal

• 5/17: Uplift the Community Summit, Restoration Plaza, Brooklyn, NY

• 5/16-18: Cannabis Wellness & Expo, Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock, AR

PREVIOUS EVENTS GUIDES

• 2024

• 2023

• 2022

Become a Patron!

Steve Bloom

Publisher of CelebStoner.com, former editor of High Times and Freedom Leaf and co-author of Pot Culture and Reefer Movie Madness.

LINCOLN — The governor’s push for the executive branch to take on Nebraska medical cannabis regulations as a way to sidestep pending legislation at the statehouse would include no additional funding for months.

Gov. Jim Pillen’s spokesperson and the director of the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services confirmed Monday that under Pillen’s plan announced Friday, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission still would have no additional funds to spend on developing rules or regulations. 

He announced his plan as lawmakers are set to debate Legislative Bill 677 Tuesday, which would legislatively create additional rules and regulations for the medical cannabis laws that voters overwhelmingly approved in November.

Pillen orders Nebraska medical cannabis regulations to proceed as legislative, legal fights approach

Under Pillen’s approach, the commission would need to make up for any spending later, such as through registration fees, though the commission’s ability to raise such revenue remains uncertain, as the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office has pledged to sue the new commission if it issues any state licenses for medical cannabis.

Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers have questioned the legality of medical cannabis, though Pillen formally certified the vote in December and the laws have been in place since.

The governor’s Friday announcement referenced “operational funding” that had already been appropriated for the regulatory work, but when the next two-year state budget passed Thursday, it included limited new funding.

The Appropriations Committee offered an annual $30,000 each of the next two fiscal years for employees in the Liquor Control Commission, who take on additional duties under the new medical cannabis-related laws. In comparison, the Liquor Control Commission has a $2 million annual budget, including for enforcement of regulations.

The Medical Cannabis Commission has no additional funding for the remaining two months of the current fiscal year. 

The voter-approved laws required regulations by July 1 and licensing by Oct. 1.

The Department of Administrative Services, which Pillen oversees, can provide limited financial support to agencies crafting regulations. Pillen spokesperson Laura Strimple, citing Lee Will, the DAS director who previously oversaw the state’s budget, said the Liquor Control Commission has a cash fund spending authority of $100,000 that is “rarely used.”

The new spending would come through a new administratively created cash fund to capture any new revenue.

“This funding authority will allow for [the Cannabis Commission] to operate, combined with registration fees for revenue,” she said in an email.

The one cash fund that the Liquor Control Commission currently has is derived from the commission selling copies of its rules, the law governing its actions and other publications. It also gets funds from fees for registration, server training and more, according to a Legislative Fiscal Office directory of state funds and programs. Just a portion of the fund has been used in recent years.

State law allows the funds to be used for “any administrative costs” associated with specific liquor statutes. Medical cannabis statutes were placed in a different section of the law, and the budget bills did not expressly authorize additional spending from that fund.