The Story of 420: How April 20 Became a Global Cannabis Holiday
Every year on April 20th, cannabis enthusiasts around the world celebrate 420. But where did this number come from, and how did it become such a widely recognized symbol of marijuana culture? The story of 420 is a mix of myth, legend, and counterculture history that has grown into a global movement.
The True Origin: The Waldos and Their Treasure Hunt
The most widely accepted origin of 420 dates back to the early 1970s in San Rafael, California. A group of high school friends, who called themselves The Waldos, used to meet after school at 4:20 PM to search for a rumored abandoned cannabis crop. The exact location was never found, but their code for meeting up—“420”—became their inside joke for getting high.
As luck would have it, The Waldos had connections to the Grateful Dead, the legendary rock band. The term 420 spread through the band’s followers, known as Deadheads, and became a staple of cannabis culture.
The Influence of High Times and Cannabis Culture
In the early 1990s, High Times magazine helped cement 420’s place in history. The publication picked up the story and started using the term in articles, event promotions, and activism efforts. From there, 420 became a recognized code word for marijuana use, eventually leading to April 20 (4/20) being embraced as an international cannabis holiday.
420 Today: A Celebration and a Movement
What started as an inside joke among a group of teenagers has become much more than a time to smoke. Today, 420 is:
- A Day of Advocacy: Cannabis activists use April 20th to push for legalization and criminal justice reform.
- A Cultural Phenomenon: Music festivals, cannabis expos, and large gatherings take place worldwide.
- A Business Opportunity: Dispensaries and cannabis brands offer special deals, new product launches, and community events.
Beyond the Myths
Many alternative theories about 420 exist, including:
- A reference to the police code for marijuana (which isn’t true).
- A nod to Bob Dylan’s song Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 (since 12 × 35 = 420).
- A connection to cannabis-related historical events.
While these theories add to the mystery, the Waldos’ story remains the most credible origin.420 has evolved from a simple meeting time into a global movement, bringing together cannabis users, activists, and businesses. Whether you celebrate by lighting up, attending an event, or advocating for policy change, 420 remains a symbol of cannabis culture and progress.
Learn More
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