The High Times Cannabis Cup, a hallmark event in the cannabis community, is making its triumphant return to Michigan in 2024 for its fifth year, solidifying the state's status as a vibrant hub for cannabis culture and industry. This competition has become a beacon for showcasing Michigan's premier cannabis products, with an extensive 20-category lineup for this year's event, highlighting the diverse and quality-driven offerings from the state's cannabis industry.
Open to all with a passion for cannabis, the competition democratizes the judging process, inviting enthusiasts from all walks of life to participate in determining the standout products of the year. Interested participants should mark their calendars, as product submissions are accepted from May 27th through June 7th in the Detroit area, with Judge Kits available for purchase starting June 22nd.
Judges are tasked with a meticulous evaluation process, employing a comprehensive set of criteria tailored to each category. For flower, pre-rolls, vape pens, and concentrates, assessments will cover aesthetics, aroma, taste, burnability, effects, and terpene profile. Edibles will be judged with an additional focus on packaging and labeling, while sublinguals, capsules, tinctures, and topicals will be evaluated for their ease of use among other criteria. Judges have until August 24th to finalize their evaluations.
The winners, showcasing the pinnacle of Michigan's cannabis offerings, will be unveiled on September 15th. The competition spans a range of categories including recreational and medical flowers, pre-rolls (both regular and infused), solvent and non-solvent concentrates, vape pens, edibles, and more, reflecting the breadth of products available in the state's adult-use and medical markets.
Entry into the competition is structured with a fee system designed to accommodate multiple submissions, including a $250 non-refundable fee for a single entry, and a scaled fee for additional entries, with special provisions for sponsorship and medical categories to address the specific needs and allowances of medical cannabis patients in Michigan.
The event not only highlights the excellence within Michigan's cannabis industry but also fosters a sense of community and innovation among growers, producers, and consumers alike, setting the stage for a vibrant and forward-moving cannabis culture in Michigan.
Detroit is set to celebrate art, music, and cannabis culture with "The pARTy," a non-profit music and arts festival scheduled for April 18-20th at the Tangent Gallery. This event, organized by the metro Detroit art collective, The Gallery Society, aims to offer a fusion of interactive music and art exhibitions, educational workshops, and other immersive creative experiences to its attendees.
The festival's core mission is to support Michigan artists financially through its partnership with the non-profit organization Art In Session. The proceeds from the event will be allocated to various initiatives aimed at nurturing the local art community. These initiatives include the establishment of a non-profit art gallery and community workshop space in metro Detroit, along with the provision of educational grants for local artists.
The lineup for the festival boasts nearly 50 artists, muralists, and musical acts, featuring notable names such as The Alejo, Eccentric Danny, Martina Sanroman, Burg Ink, and Nathan Karinen, the founder of Art Night. The event will not only showcase an array of artistic talents but also foster community engagement and creative expression among participants.
In preparation for the festival, Art In Session is organizing a three-day private workshop series from April 16-18th, dedicated to the creative and professional development of the artists participating in The pARTy and selected VIP guests. This summit underscores the festival's commitment to enhancing the skills and wellbeing of artists within the community.
Moreover, the festival agenda includes a series of workshops accessible to all attendees, designed to impart valuable art and wellbeing skills. These workshops cover a diverse range of topics, from mental health for creatives and ecstatic dance to painting tutorials and yoga flows, ensuring a holistic and enriching festival experience.
The pARTy is proudly sponsored by prominent Michigan cannabis companies such as New Standard, Element, and butter, highlighting the state's vibrant cannabis culture in conjunction with art and music. The festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate 4/20 in a manner that underscores the synergistic relationship between cannabis, art, music, and community engagement.
The culmination of The pARTy on April 20th will feature a fashion show spotlighting local designers and accompanied by music from DJ Raedy Lex. This finale promises to be a vibrant celebration of local fashion, music, and artistic talent, starting at 9:45 p.m.
A prelude to the main event, a "pre-pARTy" was held on March 8th, acting as a fundraiser for the festival. It featured an Art Night Detroit takeover with live artists, dance music, and open discussions on the festival's impact on the local artistic community.
Ann Arbor is gearing up for its 53rd Hash Bash celebration, set to take place on the Diag this Saturday. The event, which commences at "high noon," is a longstanding tradition celebrating cannabis, featuring a variety of activities including live music, vendor booths, and even a treasure hunt. It will run in tandem with the Monroe Street Fair, offering attendees a full day of festivities.
The inception of Hash Bash dates back to 1972, catalyzed by the conviction of activist John Sinclair for the possession of two cannabis joints. In a show of solidarity and protest, musicians and cannabis enthusiasts gathered at the University of Michigan's Crisler Arena, engaging in public smoking sessions to challenge the ruling. Despite cannabis not being legalized in Michigan until 2018, the event has persisted annually, becoming a hallmark of advocacy and celebration.
This year's Hash Bash comes shortly after the passing of John Sinclair, who died at the age of 82, just days before the event. His legacy, along with that of other activists, will be highlighted through speeches from notable figures such as Leni Sinclair, Chuck Ream, Tim Beck, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell, and Senator Jeff Irwin.
Event Parking and Legal Reminders
Participants looking for parking will find several paid options in the vicinity of downtown Ann Arbor, including:
Attendees are reminded of the importance of responsible celebration. It remains illegal to drive under the influence of cannabis, and the consumption of cannabis products inside a vehicle on Michigan roads is prohibited.
Event Details:
In the Ann Arbor area, over 20 cannabis dispensaries cater to adults 21 and older, allowing the purchase of up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis products daily. This event highlights the vibrant cannabis culture in the area and serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions around cannabis use and legislation.
Ann Arbor is gearing up for the 53rd Hash Bash on Saturday, an event that has been a cornerstone in the advocacy for cannabis reform since its inception over five decades ago at the University of Michigan Diag.
The event will commence at noon on April 6th with local musician Laith Al-Saadi playing the national anthem on guitar. Al-Saadi will also perform alongside John Sinclair, providing an engaging musical highlight, according to event organizer Jamie Lowell.
This year, the Hash Bash will pay tribute to the figures who have played pivotal roles in Michigan's cannabis reform movement. Lowell announced an impressive lineup of speakers, including Sinclair and Adam Brook, famously known as "Mr. Hash Bash."
The origins of Hash Bash date back to April 1972, following a freedom rally that was partly organized by musician John Lennon to support Ann Arbor poet John Sinclair. Sinclair had been imprisoned for possession of cannabis, sparking significant outcry. His release, following the overturning of Michigan's felony cannabis law, led to the first Hash Bash and Ann Arbor's subsequent decriminalization of cannabis.
The event has been a staple every first Saturday in April, drawing thousands to Ann Arbor alongside the Monroe Street Fair.
This year's roster of speakers includes seasoned activists such as Leni Sinclair, Chuck Ream, and Tim Beck, alongside representatives from the Michigan Psychedelic Society and the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office, among others. Politicians including Sen. Jeff Irwin, U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, and state Rep. Jimmie Wilson Jr., as well as officials from Gaylord and Pontiac, are slated to speak.
Michael Thompson, who served 25 years for cannabis-related charges, will share his story, underscoring the ongoing legal challenges faced by individuals over cannabis.
The theme will also remember late activists Rick Thompson, Brad Lemke, Gersh Avery, and Rhory Gould, honoring their contributions to the movement.
The event will conclude with a performance from Tom Wall and Cosmic Knot, featuring a unique "plant jamming" session. The Student Association for Psychedelic Studies has been credited with obtaining the necessary permits for the event.
Attendees will have the opportunity to visit educational booths by various organizations, including the Great Lakes Expungement Network, ensuring a day of learning and advocacy. To maintain the integrity of the event, the sale of products on site is prohibited.
In a pioneering move within the United States, a new music venue that permits the sale and consumption of both cannabis and alcohol is gearing up for its inaugural event. Located in Baldwin, Michigan, on a site formerly occupied by a driving range that has since been transformed into a cannabis dispensary, Field of Greens is set to host the "Bikers, Buds, & Brews" festival on May 18th. This unique festival will feature performances by alternative rock bands Marcy Playground and Soul Asylum, marking the first event of its kind at this location.
This event is strategically timed to coincide with Baldwin's annual Blessing of the Bikes, a unique tradition where a Catholic priest blesses motorcycles to herald the start of the summer biking season. This integration of music, cannabis, and community events underscores a novel approach to festival planning and venue management in the region.
Behind this innovative venture is Grams & Jams Productions, known for organizing the Cannabash festival in Muskegon since 2022, which has attracted prominent artists like Ludacris and Sada Baby and drew approximately 12,000 attendees in 2023. Building on its success, Grams & Jams Productions has ventured into establishing its own music venue, embracing the challenge of navigating Michigan's liquor laws. These regulations traditionally prohibit the simultaneous sale and consumption of alcohol and cannabis in the same location. To comply, Field of Greens has designed a layout that separates the venue with a fence, allocating distinct areas for alcohol and cannabis sales respectively.
In addition to entertainment, Grams & Jams Productions is launching a nonprofit initiative, Baldwin Gives Back, aimed at supporting the local community. Connie Maxim-Sparrow, the executive producer of Grams & Jams Productions, expressed gratitude towards the Baldwin community for its welcoming embrace and emphasized the initiative as a gesture of appreciation and a commitment to the community's well-being.
Field of Greens is ambitiously planning to host a series of events throughout the season, distinguishing itself from other cannabis and music festivals in Michigan. The venue, which can tentatively accommodate up to 15,000 people, will be an adult-only space, restricting entry to individuals aged 21 and over.
The Pure Options Cannabis Dispensary in Frandor is gearing up to host its much-anticipated 420 Block Party on Saturday, April 20th, transforming its parking lot into a hub of celebration for cannabis enthusiasts and the community alike. Scheduled from 10 am to 7 pm EDT at 125 North Clippert Street, Lansing, MI 48912, the event promises an immersive experience with a blend of live music, artistic displays, and a wide range of cannabis consumption options.
With on-site consumption approved, the event will feature a remarkable lineup of partners, including High Grade, Eureka, Goldkine, Wana, Bud & Mary's, Higgs, Element, VapinApe, BLOOM, Armada Cannabis Co., Peachy Hash & Co., and Ghost. These esteemed brands will offer attendees a varied selection of cannabis products, ensuring that preferences across the board are catered to.
Music will play a pivotal role in setting the ambiance of the block party, with live performances by renowned artist Sean Kingston, the vibrant sounds of Desmond Jones, and an eclectic mix from local DJs. The event is set to offer a dynamic range of attractions beyond the music and cannabis. Attendees can look forward to a flower bar, dab bar, live glass-blowing demonstrations, a selection of food trucks, personalized airbrushed t-shirts, engaging games, giveaways, and more.
In a bid to offer a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, ample parking has been arranged conveniently across the street at Sears. The organizers have also streamlined the entry process; by RSVPing, guests not only secure their spot but also become eligible to receive a complimentary gift, making the entry quicker and more exclusive. It's important to note that to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees, bags will be subject to search, and the event is restricted to individuals 21 years of age and older. Admission to the 420 Block Party is free, emphasizing the community-centric spirit of the event.
As a part of the RSVP process, attendees consent to receive emails about future events and promotions, with details regarding the complimentary gift to be communicated prior to the event, redeemable exclusively on April 20.
This event encapsulates a community coming together to celebrate cannabis culture in a festive, inclusive, and responsible environment. Whether you're a connoisseur of cannabis or simply curious about the culture, the Pure Options 420 Block Party promises to be an enriching experience filled with entertainment, education, and enjoyment.
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