What started as a code word for smoking pot has become a global event uniting cannabis lovers. For the past 25 years or so, April 20th has been known as a day to gather together to smoke, advocate for the normalization of pot and protest the powers that be. We’ve come a long way since the early days of 4/20, but we still have work to do.

We may be living in the age of legal cannabis here in Canada now, but marking 4/20 is still important. Recreational consumption is still illegal in most of the world after all, and even here in Canada, strict regulation makes it largely inaccessible for, well, a lot of the population. No matter where we are, our showing appreciation for this plant proudly and publicly is part of the work of the movement that is still very much necessary.

4/20 in the park with your pals, on your couch with your cat, or, rally up a crew for a protest in your downtown area. However you 4/20, do it with pride. If you want some inspo, check out what goes down at some of the world’s most epic parties.

420 Sesh: Amsterdam 2019 (Amsterdam-wide)

Cheech Marin’s band, Cheech’s Private Stash hosts this all-day, all-night offering of ‘smoke-tivities’ all across Amsterdam. There’s influencer and activist talks, a coffeeshop tour, infused eats, dab stations and a drum and bass-fuelled party in the red light district. 4/20 in the world’s pot capital. What could be more iconic?

Mile High 420 Festival (Civic Center Park, Denver, Colorado)

As the first state to legalize pot, Colorado as a destination tends to be a big draw for pot fans. On 4/20 especially – this party is said to be the largest free 4/20 event in the world. This year it’ll take over the 12-acre Civic Centre Park with headliners T.I. and Jermaine Dupri. If that’s not enough of a draw, make your way out for the ridiculously stunning, mountain landscape. This city was built for wake and bake-fueled hikes.

420 Toronto (Woodbine Park, Toronto)

This was a milestone year for pot in Toronto – we saw the passing of Bill C-45, the first legal shops and brands pop up in the city, and basically a massive wave of solidarity among all proponents of pot. If there was ever a year to come to Toronto for 4/20, it’s this one. This year, it’s at Woodbine Park, taking the form of a free farmers market – whoever wants to vend can. Just bring a table and a tent.

420 Hippie Hill (Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA)

4/20 at Hippie Hill is a local tradition that dates back to the 70’s, when San Fran was pushing the boundaries of subculture and becoming known as a hub for radicals. Join the tens of thousands of other pot lovers who come from around the world. This year, Snoop Dogg will be there. If it’s good enough for the doggfather you know it has to be good.

420 Vancouver (Sunset Beach Park, Vancouver)

This protest / party / free farmer’s market combo is said to be the world’s longest running 4/20 event. This year, Cypress Hill is headlining alongside Team NewNu and Goldstepz. Hang out on Sunset Beach with some BC bud and get insane in the membrane with this laid back coastal crowd.

National Cannabis Festival (RFK Festival Grounds, Washington, DC)

This is a week-long celebration of all things cannabis, going down at different spots throughout Washington. Come for a week of tannins and terpene wine tasting, bud and beer sampling, catch Ludacris and DJ Biz Markie, and support progress toward legalization in the States’ capital.

Kaya Fest (Bayfront Park, Miami, FL)

Every year the Marley family puts on this celebration of Bob Marley’s Legacy to coincide with the anniversary of Kaya, Bob’s highest-charting, non-compilation album. So, while not a celebration of 4/20 exclusively, it’s definitely a celebration of the spirit of um, Kaya – and all things Bob’s legacy embodies.

High Times Cannabis Cup (Cal Expo Fairgrounds, Sacramento, CA)

Since 1988, High Times Cannabis Cup has been bringing together the top bud from around the world and creating an epic experience of the competition. Paired with a weekend-long consumption expo with infused experiences and music (this year they have Soulja Boy, Afroman, and Schoolboy Q), it’s the OG print rag’s trademark experience.