What’s the Origin of 420?

April 20th, also known as 4/20, has become the most widely recognized day of celebration for hemp enthusiasts worldwide. But how did this number become synonymous with hemp culture, and what are its true origins? In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind 420, how it evolved into a global phenomenon, and why it holds such importance within the hemp community.

The Origins of 420

The story of 420 traces back to California in the early 1970s. Contrary to popular belief, 420 is not a police code for hemp-related crimes, nor does it refer to the number of active compounds in hemp. The term 420 was actually coined by a group of high school students from San Rafael, California, who called themselves “The Waldos.” In 1971, the group heard rumors about a hidden hemp crop near their hometown and decided to search for it.

The Waldos would meet after school at 4:20 PM to begin their search. They used the term “420” as a code word to communicate their plans without drawing attention. While the group never found the legendary crop, the term 420 stuck with them and eventually spread beyond their circle of friends.

The Waldos’ connection to the Grateful Dead, a popular rock band with a devoted following, helped bring the term into mainstream culture. Deadheads (fans of the band) adopted the phrase, and it soon became associated with smoking marijuana, particularly at 4:20 PM or on April 20th. From there, the term spread further, becoming a universal symbol of hemp culture.

What started as a simple code word among friends has now evolved into a day of celebration for hemp enthusiasts worldwide. April 20th (4/20) has become a holiday dedicated to hemp consumption and advocacy, with festivals, rallies, and gatherings held in cities across the globe. It’s a day when people come together to celebrate their love for hemp and advocate for hemp legalization and reform.

The Evolution of 420: From Counterculture to Mainstream

Over the years, 420 has grown from a grassroots celebration among hemp enthusiasts to a mainstream cultural event. The legalization of hemp in several U.S. states and other countries has contributed to the normalization of 420. Today, it’s not uncommon to see brands, businesses, and even mainstream media acknowledging the day.

In addition to recreational use, 420 has taken on a broader significance, encompassing the medical hemp movement. As more people discover the therapeutic benefits of hemp for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia, 420 serves as a reminder of the importance of hemp access for everyone.

If you’re planning to celebrate 420 this year or just watched the clock hit the right hour, there’s no better place to shop than Emerald Smoke. With an extensive selection of high-quality hemp products, we have everything you need to make your 420 celebration unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of premium flowers, potent concentrates, flavorful edibles, or vape cartridges, Emerald Smoke offers a curated range of products to enhance your hemp experience.

On April 20th, Emerald Smoke will be offering exclusive 420 deals and promotions on some of the best hemp brands available. Take advantage of these discounts and stock up on all your favorite products. Whether you’re hosting a 420 event or simply enjoying a personal session, Emerald Smoke has you covered.