Cannabis 101

Leafly’s Guide to 420

Published on April 1, 2021 · Last updated June 1, 2022
the words 'Guide to' in a green circle next to '420' in big white numbers' on a background of yellow, green and purple doodles
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

(Updated March 28, 2022 from a 2021 version)

Got questions about 420? Leafly’s got answers. Learn about the history of 420, get tips on how to smoke, celebrate, find the best 420 deals on cannabis and accessories, and more.

What to know for 420


What is 420?

the phrase 'what is 420' on a background of green and mustard yellow, with a pot leaf drawn in the '0' in 420
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

Wondering why we celebrate 420? Although several theories have emerged over the years, most people trace the holiday’s origins to the California town of San Rafael. In 1971, a group of five high school athletes caught word of a secret cannabis grow in the woods near their school. They gathered at 4:20 daily to search for the mythical grow. Lamentably, they never found it, but 4:20 eventually morphed into a catch-all code that it was time to smoke weed.

420 has a storied place in marijuana history. Learn all about the background and origins of 420 and how this date (and time) became ingrained as a calling card, a code word, and a cause for celebration in cannabis culture.


420 deals

The phrase '420 DEAL$' on a green and pink background with dollar signs and weed leaf doodles
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

As 420 approaches, retailers across the country are offering great deals on cannabis and accessories. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or dipping your toe in for the first time, you’ll find deep discounts on all sorts of products. And it’s not just cannabis that’s on sale—manufacturers of pipes, papers, vaporizers and other accessories are offering deals as well.


What to do on 420

the phrase 'what is 420' on a background of green and mustard yellow, with a pot leaf drawn in the '0' in 420
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

420 is a global day of celebration for cannabis culture and law reform. There are some popping events all across the country—from Wiz Khalifa in California to Snoop in Nebraska. See our picks below.


Find the perfect strain for your 420

the phrase 'Find your best 420 strain' on a green background with sketches of weed nugs at either end
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

Looking for a cannabis strain to make your 420 memorable? Want to know more about the different types of weed highs? Whether you’re aiming to enjoy a classic strain or get a taste of the latest and greatest new strains, we’re here to help you find the perfect marijuana strain for your 420.


420 essentials

the phrase '420 essentials' with drawings of gummies, plants, a vape pen and pre-rolls on a green background
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

420 is a time for everyone who appreciates cannabis to celebrate and enjoy this special plant in all its forms. Whether you’re rolling a joint to enjoy on the porch or baking enough pot brownies to distribute to a group of friends, whether you’re an old head or a fresh face to the cannabis community, and whatever your chosen method of cannabis consumption during this month-long 420, Leafly is here to help get the most out of it.

2022 is a great year to start getting weed delivered. Check out the Leafly Delivery portal to shop, buy, and receive the best cannabis, edibles, and more at your door.

420 cannabis basics

What do the indica, sativa, and hybrid signs mean in your local dispensary? What does a gram of marijuana look like? How long does it take cannabis to leave your system? Get grounded with the foundational facts about cannabis by clicking one of these articles that break down the basics.

How to smoke, vape, and eat cannabis on 420

Smoke it. Vape it, as either a flower or an oil. Eat it in a brownie, a cookie, or gummies. Put a little bit of a tincture under your tongue. There have never been more ways available to consume cannabis than there are right now. Having so many options, many of which are pretty new, can make it hard to decide how to consume cannabis this 420.

Learn about the many ways you can enjoy marijuana this 420, which one is right for you, and how to get the most out of it.

420 recipes

No matter what you’re making, cannabis and cooking are two great tastes that taste great together. Check out some of our favorite base recipes—cannabis-infused butter and cooking oils, for instance—that can add a little touch of 420 to any dish, as well as recipes for classic marijuana-infused recipes like pot brownies, a staple of any self-respecting 420 celebration.

Celebrate 420 responsibly

420 celebrations can be a blast, but it’s important to keep in mind that you can get too much of a good thing. If you or a friend have overindulged in marijuana goodies, there are plenty of ways to bring an intense high back to the ground or shake off the cobwebs that can accompany the morning after taking things a hit or two over the line.

Learn how to stay safe and comfortable while celebrating 420:


420 entertainment

the phrase '420 ENTERTAINMENT on a green and purple background with drawings of a bowl of popcorn and a painter's palette with splotches of color in the shape of weed leaves
(Illustration: Sasha Beck / Leafly)

April is a heavenly month for noobs and seasoned stoners alike to revel in the luxury of cannabis. Need some things to keep you busy? Give these a try!

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Leafly Staff
Leafly Staff
Leafly is the world’s largest cannabis information resource, empowering people in legal cannabis markets to learn about the right products for their lifestyle and wellness needs. Our team of cannabis professionals collectively share years of experience in all corners of the market, from growing and retail, to science and medicine, to data and technology.
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