If you’re part of the cannabis community—or even just a casual observer—you’ve definitely come across the number 420. Whether you’re celebrating April 20th or you’ve heard someone casually say “it’s 4:20 somewhere,” there’s no denying that 420 is the cannabis code.

But where did it come from? Why 4:20? And how did it become the most celebrated unofficial holiday in cannabis culture

The year was 1971, and in the town of San Rafael, California, five high school friends—who called themselves The Waldos—had a ritual. Every day after school, they’d meet at 4:20 PM by a statue on campus to light up and hang out. Why 4:20? It was the perfect time: classes were over, and their parents weren’t home yet. They used the phrase “420” as a low-key code for weed around school. “You down for 420?” became shorthand for “let’s smoke.” Simple, discreet, and totally effective.

Here’s where things got interesting: One of The Waldos had a connection to the Grateful Dead—his dad managed real estate for the band. As the Dead toured across the country, the term “420” spread with their fanbase. It became part of the lingo for Deadheads and beyond. Fast-forward to the 1990s, and High Times magazine caught wind of the origin story. They ran with it—and helped turn 420 into a symbol of cannabis culture across the globe.

As “420” became synonymous with cannabis, it was only natural that April 20th (4/20) would turn into a day of celebration. From San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park to massive gatherings in Denver, Vancouver, and on college campuses everywhere, people started coming together to toke, talk, and advocate for cannabis legalization. These days, 4/20 isn’t just about lighting up—it’s about community, activism, and recognizing how far the movement has come (and how far it still has to go).

Today, 420 is more than a number—it’s a vibe.

• Dispensaries host special events and deals. 
• Cannabis brands drop limited-edition products. 
• Advocates use the spotlight to push for reform and justice. 
• People around the world take a moment—at exactly 4:20 PM—to honor the plant, the culture, and the ongoing fight for legalization.

So, whether you’re a seasoned stoner, a curious newcomer, or just a fan of cannabis culture, 4/20 is a celebration with deep roots. What started as an after-school hangout turned into a global movement. From The Waldos to worldwide recognition, 420 is a reminder of how powerful community, creativity, and a little rebellion can be. So however you choose to celebrate—light up, speak out, and stay safe. Happy 4/20!