The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Festivals and Events in the USA for 2026
As cannabis culture continues to grow and evolve across the United States, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for enthusiasts, industry professionals, and curious newcomers alike. From grassroots gatherings celebrating local growers and artists to major expos showcasing the latest innovations in cannabis science, wellness, and business, this comprehensive list highlights the top cannabis events and festivals scheduled to take place across the country.
Whether you’re looking to network with industry leaders, expand your knowledge, or simply enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere, there’s something on the calendar for everyone passionate about cannabis in 2026.
Q1: Winter & Early Spring Sessions
Hawaii Cannabis Expo
- Dates: January 30 – February 1, 2026
- Location: Honolulu, HI
- What to Expect: Focused on the local patient community, this expo features medical education, cultivation workshops, and advocacy groups.
- More Information: Hawaii Cannabis Expo
Connecticut Cannabis Expo (featuring X CUP)
- Dates: February 14–15, 2026
- Location: Plantsville, CT
- What to Expect: A consumer-friendly event highlighting the X CUP cannabis competition and regional brand showcases.
- More Information: CT Cannabis Expo
Lucky Leaf Expo Minneapolis
- Dates: February 27–28, 2026
- Location: Minneapolis, MN
- What to Expect: A major B2B event in the heart of the Midwest, focusing on licensing, retail tech, and large-scale cultivation.
- More Information: Lucky Leaf Expo
Q2: The 4/20 High Season
Hall of Flowers Ventura
- Dates: March 18–19, 2026
- Location: Ventura, CA
- What to Expect: The industry’s premier B2B trade show. It is known for high-end brand activations and the “Iconoclasts” speaker series.
- More Information: Hall of Flowers
National Cannabis Festival
- Dates: April 18–19, 2026
- Location: Washington, D.C. (RFK Stadium)
- What to Expect: A massive 4/20 celebration on the East Coast featuring live music, an “Advocacy Village,” and the National Cannabis Championship.
- More Information: National Cannabis Festival
NECANN Boston
- Dates: April 24–25, 2026
- Location: Boston, MA
- What to Expect: The definitive hub for the New England market. Expect thousands of attendees and the prestigious NECANN Cup.
- More Information: NECANN Boston
Q3: Summer Harvest & Tech Summits
Flower Expo Massachusetts
- Dates: June 17–18, 2026
- Location: Northampton, MA
- What to Expect: A B2B show with a heavy focus on culture and community, perfect for craft growers and brand storytelling. Flower Expo events are also due to take place in other cities around the US.
- More Information: The Flower Expo
Northern Nights Music Festival
- Dates: July 17–19, 2026
- Location: Piercy, CA
- What to Expect: The ultimate cannabis-lifestyle music festival held in the redwood forest. It famously features legal on-site sales and consumption.
- More Information: Northern Nights
CannaCon St. Louis
- Dates: August 28–29, 2026
- Location: St. Louis, MO
- What to Expect: A tech-focused event looking at the “Midwest Green Wave,” covering processing equipment and retail innovation.
- More Information: CannaCon Midwest
Q4: The Industry Year-End
NECANN New Jersey
- Dates: September 18–19, 2026
- Location: Atlantic City, NJ
- What to Expect: A critical networking spot for the Tri-State area, featuring major Multi-State Operators (MSOs) and boutique brands.
- More Information: NECANN New Jersey
MJBizCon 2026
- Dates: December 1–4, 2026
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- What to Expect: The “Super Bowl” of the industry. Expect 30,000+ attendees, global networking, and the latest in AI-driven cultivation and retail tech.
- More Information: MJBizCon
Helpful Tips for Attending Cannabis Events and Festivals in 2026
- Safety First: Always check the specific consumption rules for each venue, as many remain non-consumption despite the nature of the event.
- Know Local Laws: Cannabis legality and possession limits differ across states. What’s legal inside an event may not be legal once you step outside the gates.
- Bring Valid ID: Most events are strictly 21+ and require government-issued ID for entry, wristbands, or access to certain areas.
- Plan Transportation Ahead: Avoid driving if you plan to consume. Use rideshares, public transit, or designated drivers to get home safely.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Long event days, crowds, and warm weather can take a toll—drink water regularly and don’t skip meals.
- Respect Dosage and Tolerance: Festivals can be overwhelming, especially with high-potency products. Start low, go slow, and pace yourself.
- Mind the Etiquette: Be respectful of non-consuming attendees, staff, and neighbors. Follow designated areas and keep smoke or vapor where it’s allowed.
- Secure Your Purchases: If sales are permitted, store products safely and discreetly, and follow transport laws when leaving the event.
- Check Bag Policies: Many venues limit bag size or prohibit certain items, including glass, outside products, or paraphernalia.
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Stephen Andrews
