Leading cannabis legalization and culture, California hosts some of the most amazing and significant events in the nation. The best cannabis events in California for 2025 are here and you shouldn’t miss them!
The Cannabis Culture and Scene in California
California’s relationship with cannabis runs deep. Since legalizing medical marijuana in 1996 and recreational use in 2016, the state has developed a rich tapestry of cannabis strains in California and a thriving community of enthusiasts and professionals. Reflecting this diversity, the cannabis events firm hosts anything from corporate conferences to cultural gatherings.
Before attending, it’s worth brushing up on California marijuana laws since event rules on sales and consumption can vary widely. These gatherings give business owners knowledge, entertainment, and excellent networking opportunities.
From elite networking to in-depth business insights, these cannabis trade events and conferences offer unequaled opportunities for professionals to network and grow individually.
Hall of Flowers Ventura
Originally held in Santa Rosa, Hall of Flowers has expanded to Ventura, bringing together cultivators, retailers, and brands in a dynamic B2B setting. This cannabis expo focuses on making genuine industry contacts while displaying cutting-edge products and ideas. Its unwavering dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a must-see for professionals.
NCIA Northern California Stakeholder Summit
Hosted by the National Cannabis Industry Association, this cannabis conference tackles the key challenges and opportunities in Northern California’s market. With expert panels, policy presentations, and networking opportunities, it’s a must-attend event for anybody navigating the state’s changing legislation.
International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC)
The ICBC stands as one of the premier cannabis business events globally, with its California stops being particularly significant. Combining entrepreneurs, investors, and international experts, this conference offers a worldwide view of the cannabis sector. Incorporating high-level networking, educational seminars, and cultural events, the ICBC sets itself apart from other California cannabis gatherings.
Celebrated Cannabis Festivals
These standout festivals blend cannabis with music, art, and culture, offering immersive experiences that celebrate both community and creativity across California. Whether you’re searching for a lively 420 festival in California or a grassroots cannabis festival, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you. If you’re new to the culture, learning what is 4/20 can give you a deeper appreciation of these events and their roots in cannabis history.
Kushstock Festival
Held in Adelanto, Kushstock has grown into one of California’s largest weed festivals. This free event combines music, art, and cannabis culture in a unique celebration that attracts thousands. Because of its accessibility and community focus, Kushstock is unique in that it allows participants to see a true manifestation of cannabis culture without the business side of some larger events.
Northern Nights Music Festival
Held in the redwoods of Humboldt County, Northern Nights blends music, nature, and cannabis. As the first to offer legal sales and consumption, it pioneered the cannabis fest concept in California. The Tree Lounge features local cultivators from the Emerald Triangle, celebrating the region’s cannabis heritage.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival
Though not strictly a 420 festival, Outside Lands in San Francisco features “Grass Lands,” a popular cannabis zone. As one of the first big festivals to include cannabis, it represents the culture’s entry into California’s mainstream entertainment scene.
Other Major Cannabis Events in California
Beyond festivals and expos, these standout events highlight California’s deep-rooted cannabis traditions, industry leadership, and continued push for innovation.
Emerald Cup Harvest Ball
Once a contest for outdoor growers, the Emerald Cup has grown into a full celebration of cannabis excellence. The Harvest Ball blends its awards with a festival vibe, honoring the harvest season. Focused on sustainable, sun-grown cannabis, it remains at the heart of California’s traditional cannabis community events.
SoCal’s High Times Cannabis Cup
The renowned Cannabis Cup, which combines competition with festival spirit, is returning to Southern California. High Times is a well-known brand in the cannabis industry that draws both established companies and upstarts. Customers have the opportunity to meet the creators of award-winning products and taste them.
NCIA Cannabis Business Summit & Expo
The National Cannabis Industry Association’s flagship event provides extensive education and networking opportunities for cannabis professionals. With a strong policy focus and representation from across the supply chain, the summit addresses the most pressing issues confronting California’s cannabis sector while demonstrating new solutions.
Cannabis Events in Los Angeles
With events all year long, Los Angeles is a hotspot for cannabis culture and trade in California. Looking for the best Los Angeles weed events, you will find anything from big expos to smaller gatherings.
American Autoflower Cup
Focused on fast-growing autoflowering strains, this LA-based competition brings together breeders and growers pushing this niche forward. For people who enjoy gardening, the technical aspects are entirely up to personal preference.
Underground 420 Festival
Celebrating the counterculture roots of cannabis, LA’s Underground 420 Festival embodies the spirit of the community that existed long before legalization. This event honors the activism and resilience that made legalization possible while creating space for communities historically impacted by prohibition.
This festival provides true LA 420 events that keep connections to cannabis heritage. If you want to delve deeper into the scene, visiting a trusted Los Angeles cannabis dispensary can offer a more personalized glimpse into the local culture.
With its grassroots vibe and focus on inclusion, the festival stands out from more commercial events, making it a favorite for those seeking an authentic, community-driven experience.
Planning to attend any of these events and not sure where to start? Feel free to contact us for guidance, travel tips, or help with event details.
It’s Time to Attend Some Good Events!
The state’s thriving weed culture brings together community, innovation, and celebration, ranging from business conferences to lively festivals.
As long as you’re a business insider or a casual enthusiast, these events offer the chance to connect, learn, and have fun.
These meetings indicate a movement rather than just celebrations. They are becoming regular visitors to California’s cultural scene as the company grows.
