The High History of 4/20: How It Became the International Day of Cannabis

Each year, on April 20th, cannabis enthusiasts around the globe come together to celebrate 4/20, an unofficial holiday dedicated to marijuana. From humble beginnings to a worldwide phenomenon, 4/20 has transcended its cryptic origins to become a symbol of unity, advocacy, and celebration within the cannabis community. But how did this particular date gain such significance? The story of 4/20 is as fascinating as it is unexpected, intertwining folklore, grassroots activism, and the enduring spirit of a subculture.

The Waldos and the Birth of 4/20

The journey of 4/20 begins in the early 1970s in San Rafael, California, with a group of high school friends known as "the Waldos." The nickname derived from their favorite hangout spot—a wall outside their school. 

Their story unfolds at 4:20 p.m., a time carefully chosen for its convenience after school activities had wrapped up, setting the stage for the Waldos to partake in their cannabis-centric quests. Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz, and Mark Gravich embarked on what would become legendary "safaris" or quests, spurred by a map leading to an elusive, abandoned cannabis crop. Though the crop was never found, their adventures sowed the seeds for "420" to become emblematic of cannabis culture.

This endeavor wasn't merely about cannabis consumption; it was a departure from the mainstream social settings that didn't resonate with them. It represented a quest for identity and camaraderie outside the conventional high school experience, encapsulated by Reddix's reflections on seeking alternatives to the typical teenage engagements of the time.

The transition of "420" from an inside joke to a term of significance within the broader cannabis community owes much to the Grateful Dead and their sprawling network. The connection between the Waldos and the band, particularly through Reddix's association with bassist Phil Lesh, facilitated the spread of "420" among Deadheads, setting the foundation for its ascent to global recognition.

The codification of April 20th as a day of cannabis celebration can be traced to a pivotal moment in 1990 when Deadheads in Oakland distributed flyers calling for a communal gathering to smoke cannabis at 4:20 p.m. on April 20. The flyer's journey into the hands of Steve Bloom, then associated with High Times magazine, catapulted "420" from a subcultural signal to an international emblem of cannabis culture. High Times' publication of the flyer and subsequent acknowledgment of the Waldos as the progenitors of "420" cemented the term's place in cannabis history.

Beyond just a day for cannabis indulgence, 4/20 has evolved into a multifaceted celebration encompassing advocacy for legalization, community bonding, and reflection on the progress and hurdles in cannabis acceptance. It's a day that honors the adventurous spirit of the Waldos, the communal ethos of the Grateful Dead's following, and the collective aspiration for a future where cannabis is understood and embraced.

Each year, as 4/20 rolls around, it serves as a reminder of the small, personal moments that can unexpectedly shape a global cultural phenomenon. It celebrates the unity and diversity within the cannabis community, the strides made towards legalization, and the ongoing journey towards wider acceptance and understanding of cannabis.

From Underground Code to Global Celebration

As the Grateful Dead toured, the term "4:20" traveled with them, disseminated by fans and followers across the United States. What began as a time of day to light up quietly among friends evolved into a day-long celebration of cannabis culture. April 20th (4/20 in U.S. date notation) became a day for enthusiasts to gather, share stories, and advocate for the legalization and de-stigmatization of cannabis.

The Significance of 4/20 Today

Today, 4/20 has grown far beyond informal gatherings. It is marked by large public rallies, cannabis festivals, educational events, and advocacy efforts aimed at reforming cannabis laws. In cities like Denver, San Francisco, and Amsterdam, 4/20 brings together thousands of people from diverse backgrounds, all united by their appreciation for cannabis. These events often feature music, speeches, and communal expressions of a shared desire for freedom, respect for nature, and the responsible use of cannabis.

Moreover, 4/20 serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in cannabis legislation and the ongoing fight for patients' rights, social justice, and environmental sustainability. It's a day to reflect on the impact of cannabis prohibition, celebrate advances in cannabis research and medical use, and advocate for the future of cannabis policy worldwide.

A Day of Unity and Advocacy

What started as an inside joke among a group of high school students has blossomed into an international day of celebration, advocacy, and education. 4/20 symbolizes the enduring spirit of the cannabis community—a community characterized by resilience, creativity, and a profound bond with the natural world. As we look forward to future 4/20 celebrations, we're reminded of the power of grassroots movements to effect change and the ongoing journey towards acceptance and understanding of cannabis in societies around the globe.

Whether you partake in cannabis for medicinal purposes, for relaxation, or as an expression of cultural identity, 4/20 stands as a testament to the plant's pervasive influence and the shared aspirations of its enthusiasts. Let's embrace the spirit of 4/20, not just on April 20th but every day, by promoting education, advocacy, and the unifying joy of cannabis.

Happy 4/20!!!!