WHAT IS 420 – YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CANNABIS DAY
On April 20, 2025, the 420 event marks not just a long-standing cannabis tradition, but also the one-year anniversary of Germany’s partial cannabis legalization — a milestone for self-determination, education, and a long-overdue break from outdated prohibition policies. This comes at a time when the political climate has swayed between progress and regression, with the CDU still clinging to the idea of rolling back legalization after the federal election. But the new coalition agreement has left that in the past — for now — and instead, a fact-based evaluation is planned for the fall. Good vibes only? For now – absolutely!!!
So let’s get this party started…
WHY CANNABIS IS CELEBRATED ON APRIL 20
420 – named after the date April 20 – is a long-standing tradition in the cannabis world that’s gone increasingly mainstream in recent years. Makes sense, since over 100 million people around the world are estimated to consume cannabis.
From massive events in major cities to chill backyard sessions with friends, everyone celebrates it differently. While some use the day to enjoy cannabis together, others see it as an opportunity to learn more about the plant and its many uses. Either way, it’s a perfect time to acknowledge a substance that’s been used for centuries – for healing, relaxing, and connecting.
ONE MOMENT IN TIME – THE MEANING BEHIND 420
So, where did the number 420 come from? The story of this once-controversial plant goes back centuries, but its ban in most parts of the world began in the 1930s. Despite prohibition, it never disappeared – and the community built its own traditions, including its own holiday.
Some say 420 was a police code for “marijuana in progress.” Others trace it to a Grateful Dead concert in 1971, where flyers listed various weed slang – and “420” was one of them. Then there’s the delightfully weird Bob Dylan theory: 12 x 35 = 420. And yes, his song “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” does end with the lines: “But I would not feel so all alone. Everybody must get stoned.”
But here’s the most likely origin: a group of five high school students in San Rafael, California, who met up every day at 4:20 PM to smoke weed. They used “420” as a code to keep their ritual discreet – and that secret code eventually became the global symbol of cannabis culture.
420 MYTHS & MISCONCEPTIONS
Most people still associate 420 with just getting high.
But let’s clear a few things up:
Myth #1: You have to be a stoner to celebrate 420
Wrong. 420 is about more than getting lit. For many, it’s about celebrating cannabis as medicine, as a lifestyle, or as part of a cultural shift. You don’t need to smoke to take part.
Myth #2: April 20 is the best day to plant weed
Nice idea, but no – there’s no actual evidence that planting on 4/20 makes your crop better. Spring planting, fall harvest? Sure. Magical date? Not really.
Myth #3: 420 is just for the younger crowd
Also wrong. 420 is celebrated by people of all ages – from teens to seniors. The movement is multigenerational and always evolving.
LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED – MAKING THE MOST OF 4/20
There’s no one “right way” to celebrate 420. Whether you stick to good old flower, try oils or edibles, or just want to vibe with a community – it’s your celebration.
Cities across the world host concerts, festivals, and activism events. Not into the crowds? You can join online communities, attend local demonstrations, or support the movement by sharing educational content on social media.
In London, Europe’s biggest 420 festival happens in Hyde Park, drawing up to 20,000 people. In our hometown Berlin, it’s tradition to meet in Görlitzer Park for a symbolic countdown to 4:20 PM – sparking joints and good energy, real or symbolic. Another beloved hotspot? Maybachufer, where you’re guaranteed to find yourself among fellow Ganja lovers.
… AND THEN THERE’S US
To celebrate, we’re turning our Berlin flagship store into a melting pot of urban culture. An interactive art station is waiting for your designs to be printed on exclusive merch and the food & drink bar serving local specialties reflects Berlin’s lifestyle as we see it, just as the live DJ sets by Sam Salam and DJ Craft. This isn’t just a celebration of cannabis – it’s a tribute to creativity, connection, and our home district Kreuzberg, Berlin’s progressive and diverse heart.
However you choose to celebrate, 420 is an incredible chance to come together, learn more, and be part of a movement that continues to grow. We’ve got our lighters and grinders ready – and what would 420 be without our CBD Flower “420 Berlin Mix“?
Cause it’s the highlights that keep us growing.
WE CAN’T WEED TO SEE YOU GREENING THE FUTURE TOGETHER.
