For nearly six decades, music festivals and cannabis culture have been not-so-strange bedfellows. Music fans seeking a mix of freedom, relaxation, and creativity have felt right at home at cannabis-friendly events—and with marijuana legalization expanding worldwide, festival attendees now have more options than ever. Whether it’s hip-hop, country, or reggae, the following 420-friendly festivals provide top-tier entertainment while allowing cannabis culture to thrive.

Rolling Loud: Hip-Hop Meets Cannabis

In addition to being one of the world’s largest hip-hop festivals, Rolling Loud proudly embraces cannabis culture. The festival only organizes events in states where marijuana is legal, so concertgoers can freely indulge in their favorite strains while listening to the sounds of cannabis advocates such as Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Curren$y. 

Rolling Loud continues to expand globally, so hip-hop enthusiasts will have more opportunities to sit back, relax, and vibe out to their favorite artists.

Outside Lands: Cannabis Takes Center Stage

Since 2019, San Francisco’s Outside Lands has garnered attention for its Grass Lands, a groundbreaking space in which festivalgoers are encouraged to legally buy, sell, and consume marijuana. The result is that attendees can fully immerse themselves in the experience by learning about cannabis culture, exploring new THC products, and, of course, consuming their preferred strains. 

As cannabis enthusiasts partake in the relaxation and exploration found at Grass Lands, they enjoy cutting-edge products while listening to the eclectic musical lineups that have become the festival’s calling card.

Reggae on the River: Roots and Cannabis Culture

Reggae and marijuana are a match made in heaven, and the two seamlessly come together at Reggae on the River. Situated in the cannabis heartland of Northern California, the festival embodies the deep connection between cannabis and reggae. The multi-day Reggae on the River festival offers a relaxed community vibe and a myriad of laid-back grooves. 

The festival is based in a region known for its herbal cultivation, so attendees are encouraged to partake in a heartfelt celebration of the plant’s heritage. Much more than a music festival, Reggae on the River encourages vendors and local consumers to celebrate the region’s history. The fest has become a fitting backdrop for the communal carnival associated with cannabis culture. 

Seattle Hempfest: Where Advocacy and Celebration Thrive

Seattle Hempfest has stood as the world’s largest cannabis advocacy event since 1991. Focused on much more than live music, the festival has consistently promoted issues near and dear to cannabis users’ hearts: the legalization of marijuana use, decriminalization for those who have been accused or convicted, and the type of social justice that fosters greater empathy and understanding. 

Held on Seattle’s scenic waterfront, Hempfest is revered for its diverse musical acts, cannabis vendors, and thought-provoking educational opportunities. The result is a unique space where attendees happily partake in cannabis culture while supporting education and activism. These elements make Seattle Hempfest as much a movement as it is a music festival. 

Coachella: Mainstream Music Fueled by Cannabis Energy

Officially, Coachella prohibits the use of cannabis on its grounds. However, the popular festival’s California location guarantees that the many benefits of cannabis culture are always a stone’s throw away. Diverse attendees from around the world arrive at Coachella knowing that marijuana dispensaries surround the festival. 

This makes for easy access to cannabis products before some of the biggest names in indie rock, hip-hop, and electronic music hit the stage. The vibe is relaxed, and music fans worldwide have come to Coachella in search of its now legendary sense of community. 

How to Enjoy Cannabis-Friendly Festivals

Music lovers planning to attend a cannabis-friendly festival should realize that preparation is key to having a good time. Possession and consumption rules vary by state, so researching local cannabis laws is a must. Other helpful tips include staying hydrated, pacing marijuana consumption, and taking advantage of portable options such as edibles and vape pens. 

Whether attending solo or with friends, the key to fully enjoying a 420-friendly music fest is moderating one’s use of cannabis—all while over-indulging in the music, creativity, and community found at each festival.