It’s that time of the year when the sun pokes its head out, flowers start to bloom and the gentle spring breeze carries a subtle, yet unmistakable odor: the sweet smell of cannabis.
That’s right — the week of 420 is upon us. And this year the DMV is going all out to ring in the popular weed holiday.
After all, there’s a lot to celebrate. This will be the first year Virginians can enjoy 420 without worrying about breaking the law. In July, the commonwealth became the first Southern state to legalize the use and possession of recreational pot for adults 21 and older. (Keep in mind it’s still illegal to consume cannabis in public or carry more than one ounce at a time.)
Maryland is still a little behind on that front, but the prospects for legalization there have never looked so good. Last month, state lawmakers passed legislation to put legalization on the ballot this November. And with the latest Goucher poll showing 62% of Maryland adults support legalization, the referendum has good chances of passing.
Meanwhile, D.C. has lagged behind on progress, but not for lack of trying. Advocates had their hopes up that 2022 would be the year Congress lifted its ban on recreational weed sales in the District, but their dreams were dashed when legislators passed a federal budget that upheld the locally-reviled “Harris rider.”
Legislation aside, The Outlaw Report has compiled a few of the many events weed enthusiasts have to choose from this 420 in the DMV. So pack that bowl, and be sure to brush up on your state’s weed laws.
420 Events in the DMV
National Cannabis Festival
The National Cannabis Festival is the Coachella of weed festivals. Since 2016, the event has brought cannabis activists and enthusiasts from across the country to D.C.’s RFK Stadium for an all-out weed party that includes two-days of concerts, speeches from members of Congress, games, contests, and more. Headlining the festival this year is rapper and weed aficionado Wiz Khalifa. He’ll be joined by Slick Rick, Lettuce and Ghostface Killah, among others. (April 23 & 24; RFK Stadium; $75+)
Kickback at The Eaton
D.C.’s most progressively minded hotel, The Eaton, is hosting a “super-lit” 420 kickback on its rooftop with the National Cannabis Festival and Khalifa Kush. Guests can expect great tunes, cocktails, free swag, and more.
Spa Extravaganza
D.C.’s favorite “canna-spa” is throwing an all-day 420 celebration with THC massages, edibles and a cotton candy station. At night, the spa will morph into a club for a 70s dance party with live music by DJ Sole. (April 20; 12 p.m. – 10 p.m; FREE)
D.C. 420 Tax Holiday
Starting on April 15, weed products purchased at any of D.C.’s seven licensed medical cannabis dispensaries will be sales-tax free for 10 days. That’s courtesy of a bill passed by the D.C. Council in February that established a medical marijuana sales tax holiday for 420. If you’re a registered medical cannabis user, this is your chance to stock up on bud without having to tip the tax man! (April 15 – 24)
Charm City Smoke Fest
The Charm City Smoke Fest is Maryland’s answer to the National Cannabis Festival. This year’s festival boasts a musical line-up packed with artists from Baltimore’s vibrant local hip-hop scene. Other attractions include a bar arcade, food trucks, vendors and a VIP lounge.(April 23; $25+)
Fingerboard Farm Open House
Come celebrate Maryland’s best (and only) woman-owned hemp farm opening a new storefront in Ijamsville for 420. Sample and purchase Fingerboard Farm’s organic hemp and CBD, CBG, Delta 8. They’ll also be selling seasonal farm-fresh goods like veggies, honey, eggs, kombucha, baked goods, flower trays, annuals, and more! (April 20; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; $25)
Camp out on a 40-acre farm
Pack your tent and camping gear for a four-day “decentralized utopia outdoor experience” on a 40-acre farm in Pamplin, VA. The FlyHigh420 festival is billed by organizers as the perfect getaway for weed lovers looking for “a break from the bullshit of daily life.” Enjoy a healing experience replete with live music, hiking trails, rivers, food trucks, and vendors. (April 21-24; $65+)
420 Fashion Show
Haute couture (or high couture, perhaps?) will be on display at this 420 inspired fashion show in Norfolk hosted by TheCollectiveVa. Oh, and they’re still looking for models, designers and musicians to perform, so get inspired. (April 20; 8:00 p.m.; $20)