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Cannabis Events have become vital spaces for enthusiasts, activists, and the curious to unite, discuss, celebrate, and advocate for the legalisation of cannabis. These gatherings provide opportunities for the community to connect, share experiences, and push for societal change. Two such recent events, Product Earth and Paradise Garden Stroke Forefest, have been particularly noteworthy.
Product Earth, held from 20th to 23rd August, offered a unique chance for the cannabis community to explore the prospects of a domestic industry in the UK, especially considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees were there not merely for freebies; they were genuinely interested in immersing themselves in the experience. One lesson learnt was the importance of pacing oneself, as some found themselves wandering in a haze before making any connections.
The layout of the expo at Product Earth was notably improved this year, allowing for different aspects of the cannabis industry to coexist harmoniously. The event permitted people to connect and network in person for the first time since lockdown, providing a genuine opportunity to strengthen online friendships. Despite staffing issues and COVID-19 concerns, the organisers successfully hosted a cannabis expo under prohibition in 2021. However, a division was observed between corporate culture and lifestyle brands within the industry.
The Paradise Gardens event was a celebration of cannabis culture and explored how a purpose-built music festival could cater to cannabis enthusiasts. It was a space for discussing unity and diversity in the industry, and it even included a fireside chat with representatives from law firms, the CTA, Maple Tree, and Global Cannabinoid Solutions. The event highlighted the co-option of global cannabis culture and demonstrated significant progress in the medical field regarding cannabis.
Both events, though different in vibe, were seen as epic. Product Earth focused more on networking and industry, while Paradise Gardens celebrated cannabis culture with an emphasis on music. Nonetheless, both events experienced issues with staffing and budgeting due to their proximity on the calendar. The suggestion emerged that it would be beneficial for one event to kick off the season and the other to serve as an end-of-season celebration.
Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion about the oppression of cannabis consumers paralleled with the LGBTQ community. The need for unity, acceptance, and advocacy for individual rights was underscored, as millions of people who consume cannabis daily live under oppressive laws. The advocacy is not just for legalisation but also for ensuring that the rights of those who rely on cannabis for medical reasons are not infringed upon.
Looking ahead, cannabis festivals are viewed as safe spaces for the community to come together and enjoy various activities. Upcoming events include Borifest in June and Product Earth in August 2022. The emphasis is on scheduling such events on bank holiday weekends to increase attendance and avoiding clashes with other festivals. The ultimate goal is to support and unite the cannabis community through acceptance and curiosity.
