A Puff of Adventure - The Brief History of A Marijuana Holiday

4/20 is a global holiday celebrating cannabis culture, taking place on April 20th each year. It is a day for people to come together and celebrate the plant's many benefits, as well as to raise awareness of the need for its legalization and decriminalization. Participants include people from all walks of life and the holiday features events focused on music, art, food, and political activism.

The origins of 4/20 are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have started in California in the 1970s as a code word used by a group of high school students who called themselves "the Waldos." They would meet up at 4:20 pm to smoke marijuana and the term eventually caught on as a way to refer to smoking in general.

Today, 4/20 has grown into a global phenomenon, with celebrations and events taking place in cities all over the world. It is a day for people to come together and share their love for the plant, as well as to advocate for its legalization and decriminalization.

Participants in 4/20 include people from all walks of life, from college students to professionals to celebrities. It is a day for people to come together and celebrate the plant's medicinal and recreational benefits, as well as to raise awareness of the injustices that have been committed against those who use or possess marijuana.

While 4/20 is often associated with smoking, it is also a day for people to celebrate the many other aspects of cannabis culture, including music, art, and food. Many events feature live music, art shows, and food vendors serving up cannabis-infused treats.

In recent years, 4/20 has become a platform for political activism as well, with many events featuring speakers and advocates who are working to change the laws surrounding marijuana use and possession.

In this article we are going to go over:

• The Origin of 4/20
• The Rise and Fall of the War on Drugs
• 4/20 In Pop Culture
• Celebrating 4/20

The Origin of 4/20

The story of the Waldos began in 1971 when they received a treasure map from a friend's brother who was in the Coast Guard. The map supposedly led to a patch of abandoned cannabis plants near Point Reyes. The Waldos agreed to meet after school at 4:20 pm to start their quest. They never found the plants, but they kept using "420" as a code word for smoking weed, which eventually caught on among their friends and the wider cannabis community.

The Waldos' story reflects the weed culture of the day, which was based on a sense of camaraderie, adventure, and rebellion against the mainstream. Smoking weed was not only an enjoyable activity but also a way of bonding with like-minded individuals and expressing one's dissenting views. The Waldos's ritual of meeting at 4:20 pm was a way of asserting their independence and rejecting the conformist values of their parents and teachers.

Today, the story of the Waldos has become a part of pop culture and a symbol of the cannabis movement. The term ‘420’ has been appropriated by cannabis enthusiasts as a shorthand for smoking weed and celebrating cannabis culture. The Waldos themselves have become folk heroes of sorts, inspiring countless memes, songs, and movies. In 2012, the Huffington Post called them "the greatest marijuana story never told."

The impact of the Waldos's story goes beyond the world of cannabis. It speaks to the power of youth culture, creativity, and imagination to create lasting symbols and movements. The story of ‘420’ is a testament to the enduring appeal of counterculture and the human desire for connection, meaning, and fun.

The story of the Waldos and ‘420’ is a fascinating chapter in the history of weed culture and pop culture. It shows how a small group of high school students can create a worldwide phenomenon and become part of the cultural lexicon. It also reminds us that the power of culture to shape our beliefs, values, and identities is not to be underestimated.

The Rise and Fall of the War on Drugs

After the 1970s, the 4/20 holiday continued to grow in popularity among cannabis enthusiasts and countercultural movements. However, this growth was also met with increasing opposition from anti-marijuana groups and law enforcement agencies, particularly during the 1980s when the war on drugs was at its height.

During this time, the government's stance on drugs became increasingly punitive and draconian. The Reagan administration, in particular, implemented harsh policies that criminalized drug use and increased police presence in minority communities. As a result, many people who used cannabis, particularly people of color, were unfairly targeted and incarcerated, creating a legacy of injustice that still affects communities today.

Despite this, the 4/20 holiday continued to evolve and gain momentum throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. In the late 1990s, the war on drugs began to lose steam as many people began to question its efficacy and the harsh punishments that it imposed on non-violent drug offenders. Some states began to decriminalize marijuana use, and medical marijuana was legalized in California in 1996, leading to a wave of similar legislation across the country.

The 2000s saw a growing movement towards the legalization of marijuana for recreational use. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize marijuana for recreational use, and several others followed suit in the years that followed. In October of 2018, Canada made history by becoming the second country in the world to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, following Uruguay's legalization in 2013. This decision marked a major shift in the country's approach to drug policy and has had significant economic, social, and political impacts.

From an economic perspective, it has created a thriving new industry, with estimates suggesting that the legal cannabis market in Canada could be worth up to $10 billion annually. The government has also benefited from the tax revenue generated by legal sales, with projections indicating that it could bring in hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

On a social level, the legalization of cannabis has led to greater public education and awareness about the drug, as well as reduced the number of people being charged with cannabis-related offenses. It has also provided greater access to medical marijuana for patients who require it.

Politically, the legalization of cannabis has been a major test for the Canadian government, with challenges that include: ensuring that the regulatory framework is effective, addressing concerns about impaired driving, and dealing with the potential for cross-border issues with the United States.

4/20 In Pop Culture

In recent years, the cultural impact of 4/20 has been significant, with the holiday becoming increasingly associated with marijuana and cannabis culture. Many celebrities have become involved in the holiday, with some even using it as an opportunity to promote their own cannabis-related ventures.

One notable example is Snoop Dogg, who is a well-known cannabis enthusiast and has released several albums with cannabis-related themes. Another is Seth Rogen, who has spoken publicly about his own experiences with marijuana and even starred in several ‘stoner’ comedies.

The relationship between marijuana and creative minds has been a long-standing one, with many artists and musicians incorporating cannabis culture into their work. Both Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat were two of many artists who often incorporated cannabis leaves and smoking paraphernalia into their artwork, which became synonymous with their unique styles.

Similarly, musicians such as Cypress Hill have used their music to promote cannabis culture and advocate for its legalization. In more recent years, artists like Wiz Khalifa and Kid Cudi have also become associated with cannabis culture and frequently reference it in their music. 

Bob Marley, the legendary reggae musician, is known for many things, but one of his most notable associations is with cannabis. Marley was a Rastafarian, a religion that reveres cannabis as a sacrament and uses it for spiritual purposes. Marley's relationship with cannabis was not only personal but also political, as he advocated for its legalization and the end of the prohibition of the plant.

Marley's advocacy for cannabis legalization was rooted in his belief in the non-violent aspects of the plant. He saw cannabis as a tool for peace and healing, not as a dangerous drug that needed to be criminalized. In contrast, during the war on drugs in the 1980s, the government's approach to cannabis was much more violent. The government's efforts to criminalize cannabis use and distribution led to a rise in violent crime and police brutality, particularly in minority communities.

Marley's legacy and impact on music and culture is immeasurable. Marley's message of hope, peace, and equality resonated with people around the world, and his music has continued to inspire generations.

Some artists have even created entire exhibitions dedicated to cannabis culture. For example, the Museum of Weed in Los Angeles features exhibits that explore the history of cannabis, its cultural impact, and its current legal and political status. The "Stoned Alone" exhibition in New York City featured a range of works that explored the relationship between marijuana and creativity, including pieces made entirely from rolling papers and joints.

In addition to art and music, the holiday is often celebrated with events and activities that highlight the culture and community surrounding cannabis. In many cities, 4/20 events include live music, food and drinks, and even vendor booths selling cannabis-related products.

One of the most popular events is the 4/20 celebration in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. This event has been taking place since the 1970s and has grown in size and popularity each year. It typically includes live music, food vendors, and a massive smoke-out at 4:20 pm.

Another major event is the Cannabis Cup in Amsterdam. The Cannabis Cup is a yearly competition that brings together cannabis growers and enthusiasts from all over the world. The event includes a trade show, live music, and a cannabis competition where judges sample and rate different strains of marijuana.

In Denver, Colorado, the Mile High 420 Festival is a popular event that takes place in Civic Center Park. This festival includes live music, food vendors, and various other activities. It is also the site of a massive smoke-out at 4:20 pm.

In Canada, the 420 Toronto event has been taking place since 2000. The event includes live music, food vendors, and various other activities. It also includes a march through the city in support of cannabis legalization.

Other notable events include the Seattle Hempfest, the National Cannabis Festival in Washington D.C., and the Hempcon cannabis trade show in California.

It's worth noting that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many 4/20 events have been cancelled or moved online in recent years. However, with the increasing legalization of cannabis around the world, it's likely that more events will be held in the coming years.

The recent history of 4/20 has seen a significant evolution in the holiday's legitimacy and cultural impact. While it was once associated with a subculture of marijuana enthusiasts, it has since become a global celebration that includes a wide range of people and activities.

Celebrating 4/20

On April 20th, people around the world celebrate 4/20 by indulging in cannabis-related activities. Whether you are a seasoned smoker or new to cannabis, it can be helpful to have some ideas for fun and enjoyable activities to do while high. Here are some suggestions for fun activities to try while high:

• Listen to Music: One of the most enjoyable things to do while high is to listen to music. Cannabis can enhance the sound quality and create a more immersive experience. Try listening to different genres of music and see how it affects your mood and mindset. here is a detailed list of good albums to listen to while high:

1. "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd - This classic album is a popular choice for people who want to experience a trippy and immersive musical journey. Its progressive rock sound and spacey themes make it a great choice for a high experience.
2. "To Pimp a Butterfly" by Kendrick Lamar - This album is a masterpiece of modern hip-hop, tackling social issues and personal struggles in a raw and introspective way. The jazzy and funky beats, combined with Lamar's poetic and powerful lyrics, make it a great choice for a deep and thought-provoking high.
3. "OK Computer" by Radiohead - This album is a landmark of experimental rock, with haunting and atmospheric songs that explore themes of alienation and technology. Its intricate soundscapes and Thom Yorke's ethereal voice make it a great choice for a contemplative and otherworldly high.
4. "Abbey Road" by The Beatles - This album is a masterpiece of classic rock, with iconic songs like "Come Together," "Something," and "Here Comes the Sun." Its melodic and harmonious sound, combined with The Beatles' innovative songwriting, make it a great choice for a happy and nostalgic high.
5. "Random Access Memories" by Daft Punk - This album is a modern classic of electronic music, with disco-inspired beats and collaborations with legendary musicians like Nile Rodgers and Pharrell Williams. Its funky and upbeat sound makes it a great choice for a fun and danceable high.
6. "Blonde" by Frank Ocean - This album is a stunning example of modern R&B, with dreamy and introspective songs that explore themes of love, identity, and loss. Its lush and atmospheric sound, combined with Ocean's soulful and vulnerable vocals, make it a great choice for a mellow and emotional high.
7. "Demon Days" by Gorillaz - This album is a genre-bending blend of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronica, with catchy and inventive songs that feature collaborations with a diverse range of artists. Its eclectic sound and visual storytelling make it a great choice for a trippy and imaginative high.
8. "In Rainbows" by Radiohead - This album is a more introspective and stripped-down work from Radiohead, with a focus on haunting melodies and personal lyrics. Its intimate sound and Thom Yorke's raw and emotional vocals make it a great choice for a reflective and introspective high.
9. "The Chronic" by Dr. Dre - This album is a classic of West Coast hip-hop, with iconic beats and features from artists like Snoop Dogg and Nate Dogg. Its laid-back and funky sound makes it a great choice for a chill and relaxing high.
10. "Sticky Fingers" by The Rolling Stones - This album is a bluesy and gritty masterpiece of classic rock, with iconic songs like "Brown Sugar," "Wild Horses," and "Can't You Hear Me Knocking." Its raw and raunchy sound makes it a great choice for a rebellious and energizing high.

• Watch a Movie: Watching a movie while high can be a great way to relax and escape reality for a while. Choose a movie with vibrant colors, trippy effects, or a comedic tone for a more enjoyable experience. Great movies to watch while high:

1. The Big Lebowski (1998) - This stoner classic from the Coen Brothers is a hilarious and surreal comedy that's perfect for a high viewing. The story follows slacker Jeff "The Dude" Lebowski (Jeff Bridges) as he gets mixed up in a convoluted plot involving a millionaire with the same name, a kidnapped wife, and a gang of nihilists.
2. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) - This psychedelic adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's classic novel is a wild ride that's tailor-made for a high viewing. Johnny Depp and Benicio del Toro star as Raoul Duke and Dr. Gonzo, a pair of drug-fueled journalists who travel to Las Vegas in search of the American Dream.
3. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010) - This action-comedy is a colorful and energetic romp through the world of comic books and video games. Michael Cera stars as Scott Pilgrim, a slacker who must defeat his girlfriend's seven evil exes in order to win her heart.
4. The Matrix (1999) - This sci-fi classic is a mind-bending thrill ride that's sure to blow your mind when you're high. Keanu Reeves stars as Neo, a computer hacker who discovers that the world he lives in is actually a simulation created by machines.
5. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) - This quirky and charming comedy from Wes Anderson is a whimsical delight that's perfect for a high viewing. The story follows Gustave H (Ralph Fiennes), a legendary hotel concierge who gets embroiled in a plot involving a stolen painting and a wealthy family.
6. Pineapple Express (2008) - This stoner comedy stars Seth Rogen and James Franco as a pair of unlikely friends who get caught up in a high-stakes drug war. The film is packed with hilarious one-liners, outrageous action sequences, and plenty of weed.
7. The Wall (1982) - This psychedelic musical from Pink Floyd is a trippy and visually stunning journey through the mind of a troubled rock star. The film features some of Pink Floyd's most iconic songs, including "Another Brick in the Wall" and "Comfortably Numb."
8. Blade Runner (1982) - This sci-fi classic from director Ridley Scott is a visually stunning masterpiece that's perfect for a high viewing. The story follows Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a retired cop who is tasked with hunting down a group of rogue androids known as replicants.
9. Interstellar (2014) - This sci-fi epic from director Christopher Nolan is a mind-bending journey through space and time. Matthew McConaughey stars as a former pilot who is sent on a mission to find a new home for humanity in a distant galaxy.
10. Dazed and Confused (1993) - This coming-of-age comedy from Richard Linklater is a nostalgic and funny look at high school in the 1970s. The film features a killer soundtrack, a talented cast of up-and-coming actors, and plenty of weed.

• Play Video Games: Video games can be a fun and immersive way to pass the time while high. Choose games with bright colors and engaging gameplay for the best experience. Minecraft (2009, Mojang Studios) - This open-world sandbox game allows you to create your own world from scratch, making it a great game to play while high and feeling creative.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020, Nintendo) - This life simulation game is all about building and maintaining a community, making it a perfect game to play when you want to chill out and relax.
2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011, Bethesda Game Studios) - This action role-playing game has an immersive open world and a rich lore, making it a great choice for a long session while high.
3. Stardew Valley (2016, ConcernedApe) - This farming simulation game allows you to build and manage your own farm, as well as explore the game's world and socialize with the characters.
4. Grand Theft Auto V (2013, Rockstar North) - This open-world action-adventure game is known for its immersive story and diverse gameplay, making it a great choice for a long, fun session while high.
5. Rocket League (2015, Psyonix) - This sports-action game involves driving rocket-powered cars and playing soccer, making it a great choice for a more casual and social gaming experience.
6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017, Nintendo) - This classic racing game is perfect for a fun and competitive gaming session with friends while high.
7. Portal 2 (2011, Valve Corporation) - This puzzle-platformer game has an immersive storyline and unique gameplay mechanics, making it a great choice for a more cerebral gaming session while high.
8. Journey (2012, Thatgamecompany) - This atmospheric adventure game focuses on exploration and discovery, making it a great choice for a more contemplative and meditative gaming session while high.
9. Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018, Rockstar Studios) - This open-world western action-adventure game has an immersive storyline and realistic gameplay, making it a great choice for a long and engrossing gaming session while high.
   

• Cook and Eat: Why not cook and enjoy some of your favourite snacks and meals while you are feeling extra content and happy? Just be sure to follow all cooking instructions carefully and avoid using sharp objects or hot surfaces while under the influence of cannabis. Here are some delicious recipes to cook and enjoy while high:

1. Loaded Nachos: pile up tortilla chips with melted cheese, ground beef, diced tomatoes, jalapenos, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
2. Mac and Cheese: make a homemade mac and cheese recipe with lots of creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and breadcrumbs.
3. Chicken Wings: bake or fry chicken wings and toss them in your favorite sauce like buffalo, teriyaki, or BBQ.
4. Pizza: create your own pizza with your favorite toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
5. Tacos: make a batch of tacos with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
6. Brownies: bake up a batch of homemade fudgy brownies with nuts and chocolate chips.
7. Grilled Cheese: make a gooey grilled cheese sandwich with melted cheddar cheese and sliced ham or bacon.
8. Fried Rice: cook up a batch of fried rice with chicken, shrimp, vegetables, and soy sauce.
9. Smoothie Bowl: blend up a refreshing smoothie bowl with frozen berries, bananas, yogurt, and granola on top.
1. Go for a Walk: Being out in nature can be incredibly calming and peaceful while high. Take a walk in a nearby park or nature reserve and take in the beauty of the world around you.
2. Have a Picnic: This goes hand-in-hand with the last one. Pack a basket full of your favourite snacks and head to a nearby park for a relaxing and fun picnic with friends. Enjoy the scenery and the company of those around you.
3. Artistic Expression: Cannabis can help to stimulate creativity and artistic expression. Try painting, drawing, or writing while high and see what ideas come to mind.
4. Meditate: Cannabis can help to relax the mind and body, making it the perfect time to meditate. Try some deep breathing exercises or guided meditations to achieve a sense of inner peace.
5. Yoga: Cannabis can help to enhance the experience of yoga, making it a fun and relaxing activity to try while high. Find a local yoga studio or try some beginner yoga videos online.

Remember, it's important to consume cannabis safely and responsibly. Always be aware of your surroundings and never drive while under the influence of cannabis. Enjoy these fun activities and remember to stay safe!