Like any great legend, the history of 420 have been surrounded by rumors, myths, and urban legends. Some people think 420 is a police code for cannabis arrests (it’s not). Others say it’s the number of active compounds in weed (also not true).
The real story? It all started with five high school students in California in 1971—aka, The Waldos.
Here’s how it went down:
- The Waldos were a group of friends at San Rafael High School in Marin County, California.
- They heard rumors about an abandoned cannabis crop nearby.
- They planned to meet at 4:20 PM after school to search for it.
- They never actually found the crop, but “420” became their secret code for smoking sessions.
How it spread:
The Waldos had connections to The Grateful Dead, and as the band toured, the term 420 spread through the counterculture scene. By the 1990s, it had gone mainstream, and today, it’s a universally recognized symbol for cannabis culture.
The Rise of 420 as a Global Cannabis Holiday
For decades, 420 was an underground code used by cannabis enthusiasts. But in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, it evolved into something much bigger.
Key Moments in 420’s Growth:
- 1990s: 420 spreads across the U.S. as cannabis activism gains traction.
- 1991: The first known “420” event flyer surfaces in Oakland, California, promoting cannabis legalization.
- 1997: High Times Magazine publishes the Waldos’ story, cementing 420’s history.
- 2000s: 420 becomes a rallying cry for legalization efforts, with public gatherings in places like San Francisco’s Hippie Hill, Denver’s Civic Center Park, and Amsterdam’s coffee shops.
- 2010s-Present: As legalization spreads, brands, dispensaries, and cannabis companies embrace 420, making it the biggest sales day of the year for the industry.
From code word to counterculture movement, 420 became a day for cannabis enthusiasts to come together—first in protest, and now in celebration.
420 Today: How the Holiday Has Changed
As cannabis laws continue to evolve, so does the meaning of 420. What started as an underground movement has transformed into a mainstream event, blending activism, celebration, and commerce.
How 420 Has Shifted Over the Years:
- From Prohibition to Legalization – What was once a rebellious act is now legal in most U.S. states and many countries.
- From Protest to Celebration – Early 420 gatherings were about fighting for cannabis reform—now, they’re massive festivals with music, vendors, and brand activations.
- From Counterculture to Big Business – 420 is now the biggest sales day in the cannabis industry, with dispensaries offering major deals.
The evolution of 420 is proof of cannabis’ cultural shift.
420 Biggest Sales of the Year
With legalization came commercialization. Today, 420 isn’t just a holiday—it’s the biggest shopping day of the year for cannabis (all the more reason to shop early and avoid lines!).
How 420 Became a Sales Phenomenon:
- Massive Discounts – Dispensaries offer deep discounts on flower, vapes, edibles, and accessories.
- New Product Drops – Many brands release exclusive 420 strains and limited-edition products.
- Experiential Marketing – In legal states, you’ll find cannabis events, concerts, and in-store activations.
Story Cannabis 420 Deals:
- Storewide Discounts – Discounts will be running storewide from April 18- April 20.
- Exclusive 420 Drops – Limited-run strains from Fade Co. and Just Flower.
- Giveaways & Merch – Because what’s 420 without some fun extras?
The Future of 420: Where Do We Go from Here?
With cannabis becoming more widely accepted, what’s next for 420?
Predictions for the Future of 420:
- Larger, Mainstream Celebrations – Expect major music festivals and multi-city events.
- More Countries Legalizing Cannabis – 420 could become a truly global celebration.
- New Cannabis Innovations – More infused drinks, gourmet edibles, and high-tech consumption methods.
- Less Stigma, More Education – As public perception shifts, 420 will be about culture, wellness, and lifestyle—not just getting high.
One thing is certain: 420 is here to stay.
Final Thoughts: 420 Is Bigger Than Ever
What started as a high school code between friends has turned into a worldwide movement. Whether you celebrate by lighting up with friends, stocking up on deals, or just appreciating how far cannabis culture has come, 420 is a day to embrace cannabis in whatever way feels right to you.
Stock up for 420 with Story Cannabis—don’t miss out on the biggest deals of the year.