The Best Cannabis Events in Seattle
Seattle is home to some of the best cannabis events in the nation, which is just one of the reasons why the city consistently shows up on best cannabis vacation spots in America. Whether you already live in King County or you’re just planning a trip to the Emerald City, the following cannabis events may be just what you’re looking for.
Seattle HEMPFEST
Originally established as the Washington Hemp Expo in 1991, HEMPFEST is one of the nation’s oldest and most popular marijuana festivals. It celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2017, and over the years it has brought together activists, enthusiasts, and volunteers to effect policy reform and celebrate all things cannabis-related.HEMPFEST features esteemed guest speakers, live music, vendors, arts and crafts, instructional seminars, and much more. It’s one of the only major events in the nation that brings together health professionals, law enforcement officials, politicians, and everyday consumers to promote a better understanding of the many benefits of cannabis while also pushing for much-needed cannabis-friendly legislation. If you love the Hippie Hill 420 Fest at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, you’re definitely going to love HEMPFEST Seattle.This party takes place every year in August in Myrtle Edwards and Centennial Parks on the Seattle waterfront. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, organizers have eschewed the live gatherings in favor of livestream events to remotely tackle many of the same initiatives for which Hemp Fest is known.
RAD Expo
If you’re part of the legal cannabis industry or you have an interest in the retail side of cannabis, you might want to book your spot at the Retail and Dispensary (RAD) Expo. Exhibitors include product manufacturers, cannabis attorneys, insurance providers, point-of-sale (POS) providers, and just about every other type of industry professionalIn addition to the vendors, the event also includes a Retail Vision Conference, which features keynote speakers and informative panels from cannabis retail experts. The event is free to industry professionals and attracts attendees from all over the country.The 2021 RAD Expo is currently postponed due to COVID-19 but is looking to reschedule soon. Keep an eye on the RAD Expo website for updates on the event, which will most likely take place at the Seattle Airport Marriott.
Bellingham Budfest
If you’re willing to travel about 88 miles north to the scenic city of Bellingham, you’re sure to enjoy Bellingham Budfest. This is a newer annual event in Washington state, but it’s quickly becoming one of the nation’s most-talked about cannabis gatherings.This event might be perfect if you love the HEMPFEST activities but are looking for something a bit smaller and less cramped. Bellingham Budfest features live music, speakers, exhibitors, and plenty of activism but in a more low-key environment. Budfest also features cooking demos, Q&A booths, a silent disco, and more. It’s the perfect place to shop for cannabis products and accessories, learn from experts, and stand up for important issues.The second annual Bellingham Budfest was originally slated for summer 2021 but has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next event is now scheduled for Saturday, July 16, 2022, at Zuanich Point Park. The event is free and open to all ages, no ticket required.
Cannabis Alliance General Monthly Meeting
If you want to get involved in cannabis-related activism in the Greater Seattle area while also connecting with like-minded people, the Cannabis Alliance hosts a monthly meeting that focuses on current regulations and ways that you can make a difference.This monthly meeting is traditionally held at the Wood Technology Center, but in-person meetings are on hiatus until 2022. For right now, the monthly meetings are being conducted via Zoom. Visit this link to learn more and to get involved.
Cannabis Meditation Classes
Have you ever wanted to explore how cannabis connects to the total mind-body experience and can be incorporated as part of a greater wellness regimen? If so, you might benefit from cannabis meditation classes.The MindBody Wellness Center in Snohomish hosts a cannabis meditation group, which provides guided meditation as well as general education on the wellness benefits of cannabis. Classes are held regularly on Sundays and are open to beginners as well as experienced meditation aficionados.
Other Seattle-Area Cannabis Events
In addition to the events listed above, you can always find current and upcoming events in Seattle by using sites like PotGuide and Eventbrite. Just search “cannabis” and set your location to Seattle. You’ll find everything from upcoming cannabis cooking classes to seminars and much more. Search local communities and districts like Lake City, Capitol Hill, and Bellevue, and you’ll be surprised what you might find near you.You’ll also want to check the websites of your favorite area dispensaries. Your local cannabis dispensary might have events of its own that are worth checking out. For example, Green Theory (a leading Bellevue marijuana dispensary) offers a regularly updated events calendar, so you can find out about current deals, in-person events and promotions, and educational seminars.There are many benefits to connecting with the cannabis community in Seattle. It allows you to make valuable connections, influence the legal and regulatory landscape, and learn how to benefit from cannabis in a more enriching way. RSVP to as many events as you can, and see for yourself why Seattle is one of the nation’s top marijuana cities.