The world’s largest annual gathering of folks advocating the repeal of marijuana prohibition laws launches its annual two-day event this month in Seattle—a free, informative happening filled with exceptional musicians, fab food and enough hemp merchandise to fill all your organic needs. Even though the promoters lost their traditional third day of the gathering after what they call a “contentious battle” with the City of Seattle, Hempfest is unfazed and marches forward. Speakers include an array of marijuana attorneys, doctors, activists and journalists—including Jodie Emery, the wife of incarcerated activist Marc Emery, and representatives from groups such as NORML, Grammas for Ganja, Moms for Marijuana, a pro-cannabis candidate for sheriff from Kentucky, Project P.E.A.C.E. and Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps. The band lineup is stellar, with performances from heavy guitar rockers Big High, the “cure cancer with cannabis” experimental reggae beats of the Herbivores, the indie rock of The Click Clack Boom and the harder riffs of Weed Are the World (feat. Layzie Bone), to name but a few. So stuff your back pack full of water and nutrient bars, take sunscreen and shades, and head north to the greenest sit-in on the planet. (Jane Mast)
IF YOU GO
What: Seattle Hempfest.
When/Where: Aug. 21-22 at Elliot Bay Park, Myrtle Edwards Park and Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle.
Info: www.hempfest.org.
