Cannabis culture is thriving in Canada, and nowhere is that more evident than at the many events celebrating the plant. Whether you are into trade shows, music festivals, or educational conferences, there is a cannabis event for you. From coast to coast, these gatherings bring together industry professionals, casual enthusiasts, and advocates for a shared experience.
If you are looking for a chance to explore new products, learn from industry leaders, or simply enjoy a cannabis-friendly atmosphere, you will not want to miss these festivals. Many of these events highlight Canada’s ever-evolving cannabis market, with brands showcasing their latest innovations. While online dispensaries like The Herb Centre make cannabis more accessible to consumers across the country, festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience products firsthand and engage with the community.
1. 420 Vancouver – A Classic Cannabis Celebration
420 Vancouver is one of the longest-running cannabis events in Canada. What started as an act of civil disobedience before legalization has now turned into a large-scale celebration. Thousands of people gather at Sunset Beach to enjoy live music, speeches, and a massive open-air cannabis market. Vendors offer a mix of products, from edibles to accessories, and the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming.
Although 420 Vancouver is not a government-sanctioned event, it continues to draw a huge crowd every April 20th. If you are looking for a festival where cannabis consumption is openly embraced, this is the place to be.
2. Lift&Co. Expo – Canada’s Premier Cannabis Trade Show
For those interested in the business and industry side of cannabis, Lift&Co. Expo is the top event in Canada. This multi-day conference and trade show attracts professionals from around the world. It is held in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver and offers a mix of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and a massive expo floor.
Attendees can expect to see everything from new product launches to discussions on the future of cannabis regulations. The event also features speakers, including top cannabis CEOs, scientists, and policy makers. If you are looking to connect with the industry’s movers and shakers, this is a must-attend event.
3. The Great Canadian Canna Mall – A Cannabis Shopping Experience
Not every cannabis event is about education or activism—some are all about the fun. The Great Canadian Canna Mall is a unique event that combines a marketplace with entertainment. Held in various locations, it brings together top cannabis brands under one roof, offering exclusive deals on products like vapes, edibles, and pre-rolls.
The event also features live music, comedy acts, and panel discussions. It is a great place to discover new brands, connect with other cannabis enthusiasts, and enjoy a relaxed, festival-like environment.
4. The Karma Cup – Canada’s Premier Cannabis Competition
If you want to know which cannabis products truly stand out, The Karma Cup is where to look. This event is one of the biggest cannabis competitions in Canada, attracting top brands that submit their best strains, edibles, and concentrates for judging.
The competition takes place in Toronto and is judged by a panel of experts and experienced consumers. The event also includes a vendor marketplace, live music, and cannabis-friendly social spaces. For those passionate about quality cannabis, The Karma Cup is a great way to experience the best the industry has to offer.
5. Grassroots Expo – A Community-Driven Cannabis Event
Unlike corporate trade shows, Grassroots Expo focuses on small-scale growers, independent brands, and the cannabis community. Held in different cities across Canada, this event highlights the craft side of cannabis, featuring organic growers, artisanal edibles, and boutique dispensaries.
Workshops and educational sessions are a big part of the event, with topics ranging from home growing to cannabis cooking. If you are interested in learning about sustainable cannabis practices and supporting small businesses, Grassroots Expo is worth checking out.
6. Hempfest Canada – A Traveling Cannabis Festival
Hempfest Canada is a touring cannabis expo that stops in multiple cities across the country. The event blends education, advocacy, and entertainment, with a focus on hemp and CBD products. Unlike some of the more recreational-focused events, Hempfest appeals to those interested in the medical and wellness side of cannabis.
Attendees can expect guest speakers, vendor booths, and panel discussions on topics like cannabis science, industry trends, and legislative updates. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a medical user, or simply curious about cannabis, Hempfest Canada offers something for everyone.
7. High Times Cannabis Cup Canada – A Legendary Competition
The High Times Cannabis Cup is an internationally recognized event, and Canada has its own version of this legendary competition. The festival, hosted in various locations, brings together top-tier cannabis brands, expert judges, and enthusiastic consumers.
Aside from the competition, the event features live music, food vendors, and an immersive cannabis experience. If you have ever wanted to experience a world-class cannabis festival, the High Times Cannabis Cup is one of the best options in Canada.
8. CannExpo – A Consumer-Focused Cannabis Experience
CannExpo is designed for consumers who want to explore cannabis in a more interactive way. Held in Toronto, this event features live demonstrations, DIY workshops, and product sampling. Unlike some of the larger industry expos, CannExpo is geared toward everyday users, making it one of the most accessible cannabis events in Canada.
Expect to see everything from cannabis-infused cooking classes to live glass-blowing demonstrations. The event also features an interactive lounge where attendees can learn about different consumption methods in a relaxed setting.
9. Indigenous Cannabis Cup – Celebrating Indigenous Cannabis Culture
Indigenous communities in Canada have long been involved in cannabis cultivation, and the Indigenous Cannabis Cup celebrates that legacy. This event, held in Ontario, highlights Indigenous-owned cannabis businesses, traditional growing methods, and cultural performances.
The festival is open to everyone and offers a chance to learn about Indigenous perspectives on cannabis while enjoying music, food, and a welcoming atmosphere. It is one of the more unique events in Canada’s cannabis scene, blending history, activism, and celebration.
10. The Vancouver Dispensary Tour – A Local Cannabis Experience
For those who prefer a more low-key experience, the Vancouver Dispensary Tour offers an insider’s look at the city’s cannabis scene. While not a festival in the traditional sense, these tours take visitors through some of the best dispensaries, lounges, and cannabis-friendly cafés in Vancouver.
Tour guides provide insights into different strains, consumption methods, and the history of cannabis in Canada. It is a great option for tourists or locals who want to explore the city’s cannabis culture in a relaxed and informative way.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis events in Canada come in all shapes and sizes, catering to industry professionals, casual consumers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to network, discover new products, or simply celebrate cannabis with like-minded people, there is an event for you.
These festivals and expos showcase the diversity of Canada’s cannabis culture, offering experiences that range from high-energy parties to educational conferences. No matter your level of interest, attending one of these events is a great way to stay connected to the ever-evolving world of cannabis.
