6 Unique Ways People Celebrate 420 Around the World

Crowd gathered at Toronto city square with "420" sign visible. Smoke hovers over people against a backdrop of tall buildings. Urban setting.

April 20th, or 420, began as a joke between a few California high school students in the 1970s and has since become the day of cannabis culture around the world. The nickname originated from their routine of standing near a certain wall at their school, which became their point of meeting.

While your mind may conjure up relaxed friend groups and wispy smoke, 420 events are as multifaceted as the people celebrating it. From around the globe, cannabis lovers have come up with some truly original ways to observe the day.

Grab your lighter and a snack (you’ll need it), and let’s look at six fantastic 420 celebrations that are more than just the typical backyard smoke sesh.

1. Vancouver, Canada

City skyline at sunset with vivid orange, pink, and blue sky. Waterfront with boats and a glowing geodesic dome in the foreground. — Photo by Adi K

No surprise there, since Canada was one of the first countries to legalize recreational cannabis, it knows how to party on 420. In Vancouver, 420 is a full-blown festival.

Imagine a few thousand cannabis enthusiasts, all gathered at Sunset Beach, soaking up live music and speakers and, of course, a highly anticipated smoke out at 4:20 PM sharp.

Vancouver is different because it has an open-air cannabis market where local vendors turn out edibles, pre-rolls, and more. It's like a farmer's market but way chiller. This celebration is a must-visit for cannabis lovers.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Two large black sculptures stand by a pond in front of a grand building. The red and white "I amsterdam" sign and cloudy sky are visible. — Photo by Pixabay

In Amsterdam, it's almost like every day is April 20th, but that extra spark really comes on April 20th, which adds to the city’s already laid-back cannabis culture. Locals and tourists file into coffee shops (which are more about joints than java) to enjoy their favorite strains. The city's iconic canals become the relaxed backdrop for boat parties and pop-up events celebrating cannabis history and legalization.

For a more reflective take on the day, educational events hosted by cannabis advocates provide insight into the cultural and medicinal significance of the plant.

3. Denver, USA

Snow-capped mountains under a dramatic cloudy sky with patches of blue. Green hills and dense pine forest in the foreground. Serene mood. — Photo by Travis Saylor

Denver, Colorado, is the leader in cannabis legalization, and its 420 celebrations embody that pioneer spirit. The city holds a huge 420 rally in Civic Center Park that draws tens of thousands of people. The event includes live music, food trucks, and other activities that celebrate the cannabis plant in all its forms.

The cannabis tours in Denver are another great 420 event. Hop on a party bus to visit dispensaries, grow operations, and even glass-blowing demonstrations. It’s the best way to combine education with celebration.

4. Montevideo, Uruguay

Large white "Montevideo" letters in foreground, beach and city skyline in background, under clear sky with visible moon, creating a serene mood. — Photo by Fabricio Rivera

The first country in the world to fully legalize cannabis, Uruguay, approaches 420 with advocacy and celebration. Events in Montevideo for cannabis clubs and enthusiasts are centered on events that highlight education, harm reduction, and the social benefits of legalization.

For the time being, keep an eye out for public talks, film screenings, and even art exhibits on the cultural impact of cannabis. Of course, there’s still time to spend smoking loosely in the city’s parks and beaches.

5. Cape Town, South Africa

Coastal landscape at sunset with ocean, mountains, and a seaside town. Warm light casts over the scene, creating a tranquil mood. — Photo by Julie Holmes

In Cape Town, 420 is celebrated with an activist flavor, distinctly. It is where hundreds of people march through the city streets in the Cannabis Walk, calling for the decriminalization and normalization of cannabis use. It is a powerful display of unity and a reminder that many still consider 420 a fight for the rights and recognition of cannabis.

After the march, the celebrations include live music, market stalls, and many cannabis-related activities. A celebration of purpose with good vibes, perfect for the 420 spirit.

6. Melbourne, Australia

Crowded tram interior with passengers holding yellow handrails. A sign reads "Next stop: Russell St." Bright yellow accents dominate. — Photo by Rishiraj Parmar

Australians have put their own classy spin on 420 with events like cannabis-infused high teas. They have sophisticated gatherings with CBD-infused treats and herbs and even THC-infused mocktails for those looking to elevate their experience. Held in private venues, these events provide a more relaxed and intimate way of celebrating cannabis culture.

Art shows and open mic nights are also a part of Melbourne’s 420 scene, providing a platform for local talent and creating a sense of community among cannabis users. It’s a refreshing take on the traditional 420 party.

Final Puff

Although 420 began as an underground celebration, it has become an international phenomenon with endless possibilities. From laid-back tea parties in Australia to massive rallies in Colorado, the ways that people celebrate this cannabis holiday are as diverse as their cultures and values.

From the world around, everywhere, 420 is a day for connection, reflection, and, most importantly, relaxation. This means that whether you’re rolling with your buddies or studying cannabis history, 420 is all about celebrating the plant’s ability to bring people together.