Keeping up with cannabis conventions
(Editor’s note: This list was compiled in late March; scheduled events may be canceled or postponed due to health concerns. Contact event organizers for current information.)
All those good 4/20 feelings this month might put you in the mood to gather with like-minded folks for continued celebrations of cannabis throughout the year. Just this summer, there are numerous events bringing together business owners and cannabis aficionados all across the Northwest. Get out your calendar and jot down these dates so you don’t miss out on all the fun.
Cannabis Curious
Saturday, July 11, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
The Hangar Event Center
6095 E. Rutter Ave., Spokane
The inaugural Cannabis Curious at Felts Field will be “a mix of entertainment, education and consumer connection,” according to its website. A free event targeting consumers over the age of 30, the schedule will feature yet-to-be-announced presentations about cannabis and related products. With an indoor/outdoor space that accommodates 1,700 people with free parking for up to 400 vehicles, and even local acrobats, it is sure to be a popular activity for a sunny, summer Saturday.
Bellingham Budfest
Sunday, July 26, 12-8 p.m.
Zuanich Point Park
2600 S. Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham
After a successful first year, the Bellingham celebration of cannabis returns to picturesque Bellingham Bay for a day of music, education, information and fun. A 21-and-older “Cannabis Corral” allows i-502 companies to safely and securely share information with attendees while the rest of the event remains all-ages and family friendly.
Spokane Interchange
Tuesday, Aug. 4 & Wednesday, Aug. 5
Spokane Valley Event Center
10514 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
After hosting four successful events in Renton, cannabis business magazine Marijuana Venture is bringing Interchange to the Spokane area. Described as B2B speed dating, the two-day event allows cannabis retailers to meet one-on-one with producer/processes in a private setting to discuss products and business goals. Approximately 25 retailers and 25-30 producer/processors are expected to participate.
Seattle Hempfest
Friday, Aug. 14 - Sunday, Aug. 16
Seattle Waterfront Parks
3130 Alaskan Way, Seattle
One of the biggest and longest running cannabis events in the U.S., Seattle Hempfest celebrates 29 years this summer. Even with legalized cannabis in Washington State, Hempfest continues its advocacy in cannabis law reform, including legalization at the federal level, release of incarcerated non-violent cannabis offenders and medical patient rights. The “protestival” features multiple stages with live music and speakers, as well as vendors and other activities.
Cannabis Science Conference
Monday, Aug. 31 - Wednesday, Sept. 2
Oregon Convention Center
777 NE. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Portland
An academic symposium instead of a trade show, Cannabis Science Conference focuses on the science and research of cannabis. Learn about the latest data and studies, technology and equipment developments, and emerging medical information. Last year’s Portland conference featured a presentation by actress and singer Olivia Newton-John with her husband John Easterling. A Baltimore conference is also planned for summer.