Your Best 420 Yet

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]I[/dropcap]t’s the greatest stoner celebration of the entire year, and the entire reason for this special edition of CULTURE—420 is on everyone’s mind as soon as the calendar turns to April. There are so many awesome ways to celebrate, but it takes some planning, as well as some basic safety precautions, to truly insure that your 420 celebration is a big hit rather than a Fear and Loathing-esq freak-out or a day of being couch-locked. If you are looking for a way to have a great time this year, then look no further—we’ve laid out everything you need to plan the perfect 420.

Throw a Killer 420 Bash

Of course, there are always a million awesome things happening for 420 in cities with legal and medical cannabis, and even in cities that still suffer under prohibition. But sometimes it just sounds like a better time to kick back at a house party with those you know already, or some cool new friends, and celebrate the season.

This year, try throwing a 420 party yourself if none of the events going on appeal to you. Buy some flower and vape for people to imbibe, put out some edibles, or ask your guests to bring their own so you can imbibe together. Just make sure to have plenty of fun events planned for the day. If you have a yard, plan some outside activities so your guests don’t feel cooped up, and make sure there are plenty of movies, games, and other fun activities to keep your guests occupied while they get loopy.

If you do choose do get super high with your friends and take edibles, you are surely in for an awesome time, but it’s important to keep a few basic rules in mind when it comes to dosing up on edibles and keeping your cool.

“If you aren’t experienced with edibles, start with half of a 10 mg serving, which is the legal serving size in Colorado,” explained Mark Slaugh, Executive Director of the Cannabis Business Alliance in Denver. “Wait two hours, per edible labeling, see how you feel, and then decide if you want to consume more. Read the labels of products for instructions and warnings. Edibles should not be considered regular food. If you’re hungry, be sure to have a proper meal before you consume THC. Stay hydrated, and do not mix other drugs—such as alcohol—with THC.”

Find a 420 Rally

If going out on the town is more your speed, there will be no shortage of 420 events to attend in cannabis-friendly cities.

“The fact is, thousands will be flocking to Denver to celebrate 420,” Slaugh told us. “Hotels are sold out, and gatherings have been planned. There will be several fun events throughout Colorado during April to celebrate.” Other states have big 420 plans in the works as well. The Seattle Cannabis Freedom March is at the end of the month, but Seattle is also hosting Hempfest on April 20, celebrating all things cannabis from activism and prisoner rights to partying, smoking and entertainment. Banking on what their city is known for, great food and beautiful ocean, Portland will be hosting a 420 brunch and then a big cruise to celebrate legalization, and a 420 Bus Tour. San Francisco is planning 420 in the Park, their traditional huge gathering of smokers at Hippie Hill in Golden Gate Park, and L.A. will be celebrating the second annual Cannabis Championship, a day of cannabis-themed competitions.

420 rallies can be a great time for meeting new people, networking, and toking up together, but be sure to stay plenty hydrated, as the combination of edibles, blunts, and April sunlight can lead to some serious dehydration. Also, make sure to know the laws in your area—some places don’t allow public access, and smoking outside can result in a fine.

“Be smart, know the laws, and respect this wonderful new right we have been awarded,” Slaugh stated. “It is illegal to consume in public [in Denver and most legal cities]. Last April 20, over 200 citations for public use were given in Denver.” Don’t let your good time get ruined by a run-in with the police, and make sure that you are aware of all the laws in your area.

Check out some Live Music

Another way to get into the 420 spirit is to enjoy one of the many awesome concerts going on in your area, curated specially for the 420 season. “420 Eve on the Rocks with Method Man and Redman will be at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Denver on April 19, and Snoop Dogg will perform at the Third Annual Merry Jane Wellness Retreat at Fiddlers Green in San Francisco on April 20,” Slaugh told us. In Detroit, Freddie Gibbs will be rapping to The Shelter at St. Andrew’s Hall on April 21. San Francisco will also be welcoming Berner with Cypress Hill on April 20 at the Bill Graham Auditorium. There will be plenty of concert opportunities going on in every city, so see what’s out there and get some tickets. If you can’t swing the price of a big show this year, keep an eye out for smaller shows at local venues featuring more D.I.Y. artists.

420 may not seem like a prime time for DUIs, but in reality, stoned driving can result in hefty penalties as well, and it’s never a good idea to get behind the wheel baked. “It is against the law to drive under the influence of marijuana,” Slaugh told us. “If you get pulled over, you will face the same consequences as driving under the influence of alcohol. A typical DUI can cost you over $10,000. Call a cab or Uber.”

Whatever you decide to do this 420, get out there to celebrate your newfound freedom, stay safe, and light one up!